Home Based Salon – The Pros and Cons

Thinking of taking your salon business into your home? Lets explore: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly.

Are you considering the journey of establishing your home based salon? There can be a lot to consider when making this business decision. Weighing out the pros and cons is something that can not be taking lightly. We spoke to home based salon owners for insightful perspectives for those venturing into the salon and spa industry. From creative freedom to financial responsibilities, let’s explore what they shared and the key aspects that come with having a salon home.

Pros: The Good

Creative Control: Enjoy the liberty to shape a distinctive brand identity and control the overall aesthetic of your salon space. Having your space in your home allows for low over head costs, allowing more finances to be put into the overall decor and function of your space.

Client Relationships: Forge stronger connections with clients by having a consistent location, fostering loyalty and repeat business. Some clients enjoy the feeling of a home based business over the busy salon atmosphere.

Flexibility in Operations: Tailor your salon’s operating hours, services, and policies to suit your preferences, adapting more effectively to market demands. Whether you work around your children schedule, another job, or just the hours you enjoy!

Financial Independence: Retain your profits and build a financially rewarding business without revenue-sharing with a salon owner. Setting your own prices, as well as making full markup on retail is financially advantages. 

Autonomy: Working solo allows for you to only have to worry about your self, and no other co workers or staff. This freedom from others can be exciting if it is what you are looking for.

Brand Building: Establish and grow your brand, leading to increased visibility, recognition, an d a strong presence in the industry. Creating just for your self, and not someone else’s business can be truly satisfying. 

Cons: The Bad

Financial Responsibility: Bear the burden of financial aspects, including startup costs, operational expenses, and unexpected challenges. This also goes for unsatisfied clients, return on products or any miscellaneous charges.

Workload and Stress: Juggling the dual role of managing the business and providing services, potentially leading to high levels of stress and burnout. With out things like a receptionist, manager or assistant, you might not be aware of all the daily tasks.

Market Competition: Navigate the challenge of standing out in a saturated market, requiring effective marketing strategies for client attraction and retention. Not having a salon owner or salon marketing/social media team can be a challenge. As well as not having a company/ team or business presence can be difficult.

Regulatory Compliance: Navigate the complexities of meeting industry regulations, licenses, and compliance standards, demanding meticulous attention to legal details. Each region, city and state all have different regulations. Make sure you have all inspections done, as well as properly filling taxes.

Home Salon Limitations: Recognize the constraints of operating a salon from home, addressing space limitations and potential zoning or residential restrictions. Parking, over all curb appeal and location can all be an issue.

Income Uncertainty: Experience income fluctuations based on business performance, seasonality, and economic factors, unlike the predictability of a steady paycheck. Not having over flow of client bookings from a salon can cause a large financial difference.

The Ugly
Lack of Inspiration: Working solo in your home rather than working in a suite can be very isolation, especially from current trends and styles. Making sure you have a good connection with many hairstylists to stay up to date, continue to take education and ensure you are aware of trends and products.
Lack of Credibility: Unfortunately, many customers view home based businesses as “out of date” or “less professional”. This may not be the base however, it is important to know this could be a potential set back.
Your Family/Pets: The noises, the smells, the interruptions. These all can effect your guest appearances. Imagine you are looking a fragrant meal, or your kids refuse to go to bed for your partner, disturbing your clients appointment.
Cleaning: Constant cleaning of your space and enterance is crucial to keeping a professional atmosphere. If you don’t have a separate entrance for your clients, constantly having to maintain the entry way and rooms visible can be overwhelming.
Nosy Neighbours: You have have some noisy neighbours who do not appreciate you running a business in your community. Even though you maybe have approval from your city or state, this can still create animosity. 
Lack of Motivation: Loosing the excitement for the industry and customer service can easily happen working alone on in your home. Taking a class or cleaning your salon may come second to overall household chores or daily life, as your business begins to blend into your home and daily life. Having a separation or space or not leaving to go to work can create a hazy mindset. 

As you embark on the journey of having a salon home, carefully weigh these pros and cons to make informed decisions. Whether you’re seeking creative freedom, financial independence, or building a unique brand, understanding these dynamics is crucial for a successful venture in the salon and spa industry.

•