Absolutely. The problem that contributes most to self-employed professionals failing so quickly stems from the narrative that schools and rental companies push—the “self-employment is so great and easy and you make so much money!” lie.

It’s totally doable if you’re prepared and willing to do what it takes. In my opinion, the freedom and flexibility are also entirely worth the expense and extra work—especially if you aren’t having to work in a building full of other renters.

Hair is what I love to do. It paid for a college education that I never used. It gave me the chutzpah to be a Boss and not a bossy bi&*#. I still love it; even with the bone spurs on the bottom of my feet and the lower back trouble from wearing killer shoes to look the part. (I really can’t stress the importance of not doing that to yourself. Wear ugly shoes, you’ll thank me later.)

I could be making more money at a larger salon – I could be making More of a profit there too. Don’t get it twisted – I make a profit and I make art. That’s the dream – only I get to do it without listening to all the cackling, people who can’t control their volume, and clients who stir drama with big spoons, jealous and insecure co-workers, or a receptionist who gives advice on what Youtube videos your clients should watch to DIY hair. For the expense I get Peace. I get a clean environment. I get to make decisions about me, myself, and I. And I need to tell you – it’s worth it. Cute kitschy decor be damned.

I see all the negativity in other posts; because this endeavor is not easy. It means working hard. Pleasing other people. And a little bit of sacrifice. However, for me, this was and is – just a dream come true. I opened my Studio with 10 grand, a full clientele, and an excellent work ethic.

Be smart. Have integrity. Be clean. Have inspiration. Be true to yourself.

And always dream big..

You can do it, if you really want to.

It’s hard for everyone, but it can be exceptionally difficult if you’re specializing in ethnic hair. It seems like every few months, I read an article by a Black professional or salon owner who calls for major changes to both the way minority salons do business and the way both clients and professionals treat one another in that specific sector. (If you’re interested, this one has been my favorite for years and the one I point to for those who need to be informed.) Luckily, the majority of the people calling for those changes are helping to make them a reality. For instance, here’s Bed of Nails in NYC and Like the River in Atlanta.

I don’t know for sure if you were in a similar situation previously, but if so–while some of the problems you experienced are typical of the industry, I’m willing to bet more than a few of them were due to the issues found exclusively within that sector of the industry.

1.) Knowing how much you need to break even is as simple as doing the math. (What are your operating costs and your product/disposable costs per service?)
2. & 3.) Most salon management softwares have reports built in that will give you retention and acquisition metrics.
4.) Planners! Whatever planning system you use, you should have one. Set goals and deadlines. Every day, assess where you are in relation to where you want to be. Ask yourself that question every day. Follow through.
5.) This one is tricky. Your five year plan will likely change as you gain more experience and as your life changes. Set one, but be flexible. 🙂

It sucks. Booth rental has fragmented this industry to such an extreme degree, most professionals who would prefer a team-based salon can’t even find one.

I’m so sorry you’re struggling. In this industry, it can be really difficult to compete (especially in an oversaturated market), when DIY is sapping the market. Owning a salon really does require diligent management, constant research, and ongoing assessment for correction. It’s not like it was twenty years ago when we could just pop open a shop. There aren’t as many routine salon clients as there used to be, so owners have to become more innovative and aggressive in how they market and manage. It’s not enough to be great at servicing clients, anymore. To succeed, salon owners either need to step out from behind the chair (or in your case, the table) and step into the role of business manager, or hire someone who can fill that role for them. With so many salons and so many alternatives, it’s a war out there now.

I agree. In the early part of my career I apprenticed straight out of beauty school for 2 European men. I was required to assist 5 days a week plus train (cut , color) models. I watched how a successful salon was run. Several years down the road and after much dedication I trained apprentices and owned my own salon, with booth renters. Renting in a large salon or renting a room of your own within a building is essentially the same thing. We all want independence, but not everyone is professional. Be selective where you work, know your worth and keep up on your education!