Steps to Opening Your Successful Salon Studio

If you’re dedicated to making 2022 the best year yet, and you have a base of faithful clients, then consider opening a studio salon of your own. Becoming your own boss is an exciting career step, and it’s even better when you have access to a luxe space that you can customize. If you’ve been thinking about making the jump to business ownership but you’re not quite sure what it takes, we’re here to help. Here’s a step-by-step guide of how to set yourself up for success when starting a new chapter in your beauty career:

Find Your Motivation

As a beauty pro forging your own path, there’s no question that you’ll need to find your “why.” Before you begin touring locations, it’s good to brainstorm your top motivations for the move. Many of our Indies cite reasons like the ability to have more freedom, provide a better client experience, take ownership of their schedule and pricing, make more money and create brand recognition.

Choose a Studio in a Great Location

When you start your salon search, don’t underestimate the importance of a great location. A modern building with luxury touches is a must, and the parking is just as crucial. When there’s plenty of parking available, it makes the experience so much better for your clients and for you. 

Select Products to Stock and Sell

You have the freedom to choose to use any brands that you love when you are in your own salon studio.  One of the best parts about being an Indie is having access to our wholesale beauty supply program with an array of brands including davines, Olaplex, Keratin Complex and many more. Through this program, you can earn rent rewards by purchasing the high-end products you know and love at wholesale prices.  When you become an Indie, you keep 100% of the profits from your product sales, which has the potential to significantly boost your earnings.

Business Set Up 

Although the most exciting part of signing your studio lease is getting to decorate to your heart’s content, the business side of things must come first. If this is your first time exploring the intricacies of licensing, sales taxes and insurance, it can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, though–our Indie team is here to walk you through the process and provide support.  We have an entire Welcome Kit and Onboarding process that makes everything easy for you in your transition to Indie.   

Design and Create Your Space

Finally, it’s time to personalize your space! Whether you’ve long had a vision of what your dream studio looks like or you’re looking for inspiration, our team is here to help with “all things” setup. Our goal is to make moving in exciting rather than stressful for each new Indie. We can help you with big picture details like brainstorming décor and layout ideas, as well as the installation (like setting up cabinetry and painting).

Optimize Business Operations With Software

Once you’re set up in your new location, you’ll want to keep things running smoothly with software designed for small businesses. As an Indie, you’ll enjoy discounted Square transaction and scheduling software, if desired. We also have a discount with  Gloss Genius for scheduling and its multitude of features.

Start Spreading the Word

Making the move to a studio of your own is an exciting step. To make the most of your investment, be sure to let clients know the details of your move as soon as possible. Ask clients for contact information (including email addresses/mobile numbers) so you can send out reminders and invite them to stop by your new place. If you’re not already active on social media but want to begin, now is a good time to start building your presence and share the exciting news.

If you’ve been dreaming of becoming your boss and designing your studio salon, there’s no time like the present to get started. Indie Salons offers luxe studios with several excellent locations to choose from. In addition to the modern, upscale salon suites, the benefits of being an Indie are abundant. Our perks make it easy to grow your business, and the supportive community makes our network truly special. If you’d like to stop by for a tour of one of our stunning facilities, please contact our Market Manager, Kandice Meylan. You can reach Kandice via call or text at 303-792-8222.