About · Editorial policy

An independent guide, on purpose

The Nail Guide exists because "best nail salon near me" searches return ads and phone books. We wanted the thing that didn't exist: an honest local guide, city by city, written like a knowledgeable friend.

How we research

We read the public record deeply — hundreds of Google, Yelp, Booksy and Vagaro reviews per salon, published menus, licensing records where available — and prioritize consistent patterns over single raves or rants. When we cite a rating or a quote, it's real and public at the time of writing. When we haven't verified something in person, we say so.

What "curated" means here

Each city directory lists salons we'd send a friend to, with what each is genuinely best at. Listings are free and cannot be bought — a salon gets in by being good, and comes out by stopping.

How the site makes money

One way, clearly labeled: a single featured placement per city, available to one salon at a time. It buys visibility, never editorial opinion — directory write-ups don't change based on who's featured. That's the whole business model, and it's disclosed on every page it touches.

Corrections

Prices drift, salons move, techs change shops. Spot something outdated? Email thenailguideco@gmail.com and we'll fix it fast.