You’ve gone through the rigors of beauty school. You’ve perfected your craft of lashing and brow shaping. You have a loyal following on social media, and are ready to take the next step in your career: opening your own salon.
But, before you jump at the opportunity to open a brick-and-mortar lash and brow salon, consider the benefits and drawbacks carefully. While having a physical location can provide stability and credibility to your business, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Is it right for you? Ask yourself these questions to find out.
Do I Have Enough Capital?
Property rental fees, renovation costs, and equipment purchases can add up quickly. Before investing in a brick-and-mortar salon, make sure you have enough capital to cover these expenses and still have a buffer for unexpected costs. You may also need to factor in monthly operating expenses and marketing costs to attract clients.
If you’re low on capital, consider offering mobile lash and brow services instead. This option allows you to provide services at client’s homes or designated locations, which can save on overhead costs and allow you to focus on building your client base.
Do I Have a Steady Client Base?
Opening a brick-and-mortar salon requires a steady flow of clients to cover expenses and turn a profit. If you already have a loyal following, this may not be an issue. But if you’re just starting out or don’t have a consistent clientele, it may be wise to continue building your business through mobile services before committing to a physical location.
Am I Willing to Take on Additional Responsibilities?
Running a brick-and-mortar salon involves more than just providing lash and brow services. You’ll also be responsible for managing employees, handling finances, and overseeing day-to-day operations. Be prepared to take on these additional responsibilities or consider hiring a manager to alleviate some of the workload.
Is There a Demand for Eyelash and Brow Services in My Area?
Before opening a brick-and-mortar salon, look into the market in your area. Are there already established salons offering similar services? Is there enough demand for lash and brow services to support another business? If the market is oversaturated or there’s limited demand, you may want to reconsider your options.
Are There Any Legal or Zoning Restrictions?
Opening a physical location comes with certain legal and zoning requirements. Be aware of these regulations in your area to avoid any potential issues down the line. These may include obtaining permits and licenses, complying with health and safety standards, and adhering to zoning ordinances. You need to follow all necessary procedures so your business operates legally.
Do you have the money to invest? A stream of steady clients that will be there when you cut the ribbon? And are you ready for the added responsibilities and potential legal hurdles? If you answered yes to these questions, then investing in a brick-and-mortar lash and brow salon may be the right move for you.
But if you’re not quite there yet, that’s okay, too. Keep building your business and consider re-evaluating in the future when you’re more financially and professionally ready. There’ll always be opportunities to expand and grow, so don’t feel pressured to make a decision that may not be the best fit for you at this moment.