Starting a business
How to start a hair salon
You've built a client list behind someone else's chair. Now you want your own name on the door. Starting a salon is about choosing the right setup, handling the licenses, and making sure your clients and new ones can find you. This guide works for barbershops and spas too.
1. Pick your setup
- Booth or chair rental: rent a chair in someone else's salon. Lowest startup cost, and you run your own book.
- Salon suite: your own private room in a suite building. More control, still no build-out.
- Your own salon: the most work and money, but you can hire stylists and build something bigger.
- Mobile or in-home: allowed in some states with the right license. Check first.
2. Get licensed
States license cosmetologists and barbers, and most also require a license or inspection for the salon itself. If you open your own space, you'll likely need a business license, a certificate of occupancy and to meet health and safety rules. Your state cosmetology or barber board has the checklist.
3. Set up the business on paper
Decide whether to run as a sole proprietor or form an LLC, get a free EIN (tax ID) from the IRS if you need one, and open a bank account just for the business. Rules differ by state and city, so check your state's business website or ask an accountant. Our new business checklist lists every step.
Get liability insurance that includes professional coverage for the services you do. Chemical services like color and relaxers carry real risk.
4. Set your prices and menu
Keep your menu simple and easy to read on a phone: each service, how long it takes and a starting price. Price for your time and your experience, not to be the cheapest. Clients who choose you for price leave for price.
5. Build a brand that matches your work
Your brand should look like the experience in your chair. A name, a logo and colors that fit your style, used the same way on your sign, cards, social pages and website. Read how to name your business before you print anything.
6. Make it easy to book
Most clients find a salon on their phone and want to book without calling. You need a website with your services and prices, your team, a gallery of real work and a book now button linked to your booking app, plus a Google Business Profile with photos. See what a salon website should include.
7. Fill your chairs
- Tell your current clients where you're going, as early as your agreement allows.
- Post your work every week. Before and afters and short videos do best.
- Ask every client for a Google review.
- Team up with nearby businesses, like boutiques, photographers and wedding planners.
For video ideas, see video ad ideas for salons and barbers.