Running your own salon business can be fun and rewarding, but it also takes up a lot of time and can be costly to get started. But according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), it’s one of the fastest-growing professions in the nation. In other words, it’s probably worth the effort!
If you’re thinking about opening your own salon but need some extra advice on how to start a home salon business, these tips will help you plan effectively, figure out what equipment you’ll need, decide how to handle the first few months, and more so that you can open your doors as soon as possible.
Build the right work area.
The area you choose for your salon should be off-limits to all but yourself. Be sure it has a door that can be closed, preferably with a lock so you won’t have clients popping in and out when you aren’t expecting them. Look for a room that is as quiet as possible, and if there are children or pets nearby, they should be taught to respect your work area as private property. You may even want to invest in a partition that separates your working space from theirs so that when guests visit, they don’t feel like they are in anyone’s way.
If manicures will be included in your home salon business, consider purchasing a manicure table and equipment. While you can offer nail services on your kitchen table, investing in the right tools will make your work area look and feel more professional. Most states do require formal training to offer manicure services, and many people choose to pursue this in addition to or instead of cosmetology. If your training included it, you can offer it as an additional service in your home salon or hire someone else to do it.
Get professional remodeling advice.
You’ll need to check with your local building authority about any remodeling or renovation requirements for your salon. You’ll probably have to get a permit and show proof that everything is up to code. You may also need an occupancy permit, which will require you to get carbon monoxide detectors, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers. Then again, if you’re only planning on hosting nail services from home—which often don’t include making waxes or massage therapy—you might not need as many safety measures.
Still, make sure you know what requirements are in place for your area before you move forward with opening your home salon. Once you know the legalities and rules, you’ll need to find reputable professionals in your area. For example, if you have roofing needs in Florida, you might need to search for a reliable West Palm Beach roofer to get your roof up to code, including maintenance and new shingles and roof tiles.
Market your business effectively.
One of your biggest challenges will be marketing your business effectively. When you’re just starting out, you might not have a big network of clientele, so it can be tough getting foot traffic into your home salon at first. In these situations, it’s a good idea to think outside the box. One great way to market yourself is by offering services that people wouldn’t normally get done at home. For example, if you offer manicures and pedicures for people with special needs or injuries that prevent them from getting their nails done in public settings, word about your services will likely spread quickly (and there are even some grants available specifically for nail techs in rural areas). Remember, offering something different than what most competitors provide is one of your best bets when trying to market a home salon business effectively.
