If you’re considering opening a spa, you’re probably already familiar with the beauty industry in some way. Maybe you’re a cosmetologist who is ready to branch out on your own. Or perhaps you are only interested in running the business side of things while others perform the services. Either way, you’ve picked a good market to get into.
The beauty industry is always growing. In fact, its value is expected to reach more than $850 billion by 2024. That means that there’s always room for more businesses, especially those that offer the highest quality of services and products. But starting any business can be a challenge and it’s important to know where to start.
1. Buy quality furniture.
Before you buy a single product, you’ll want to thoroughly research your potential suppliers. This includes every supplier from shampoos to furniture. Don’t skimp on these purchases. Talk to other industry experts to find out where you can find things like the best pedicure chairs for sale. Your criteria for buying these types of items shouldn’t be just the lowest price. You may be on a budget and need to consider this, but it’s also best to make sure it will last a while. It will cost you more in the long run if you’re having to replace salon furniture and fixtures every couple of years.
When choosing your pedicure chairs, manicure tables, and other salon furniture, you’ll have some options to consider. For example, some models are equipped with massage features. These do take your service to the next level, but it’s not a necessity if you are sticking to a strict budget. Some also come with fold-away trays, reclining features, and various other features. If you’re hiring someone to do pedicures in your new spa, it’s helpful to get their input when choosing these items.
2. Get Organized
Organizing your workspace and information may seem like something you can do once you open but it’s crucial to learn how to keep your business organized perfectly from the very beginning. This doesn’t just mean tidying up your office supplies and keeping clutter to a minimum. Start with a strategic plan for storing your information. It should include who you will contact, what you’ll need to buy, and a budget. The first thing you’ll want to do is organize your finances.
This could mean setting up a bookkeeping system on your computer. Or it could mean just keeping your receipts and spending organized in a way that makes it easy to hand off to your accountant. The same thing goes for all your information. Once you start contacting suppliers and business services, you’ll need a good system to keep your gathered information organized. This will come in handy when you want to compare prices or other data.
Design a marketing plan.
Marketing requires some research along with some trial and error. If you’re not particularly skilled at this, consider hiring someone else to take it over. But when you’re just starting out, you can keep it simple. Just try to get the word out to as many people as you can. The first thing you need to do is figure out your target market.
For a spa, this all depends on the culture in your geographic region. Some spa owners make the mistake of targeting only women when they might have a large market for men’s spas in the area. This can most easily be done by networking with other similar services in your community.
For example, you can join another businesses’ Facebook group and get in on their conversations. This will automatically connect you with people who might need your services. Other marketing tactics that work well for salons are giveaways, special discounts, and makeovers. Hosting an open house is also a great idea for getting clients in the door. Just be sure to offer snacks and something to entice them to come back next time.
