I'm doing something a bit different today and dishing out some facts for those thinking of venturing off into the world of entrepreneurship. If only I knew then what I know now... I'm sure we've all said it at some point so I want to help you a bit in that department. Here are some tips if you're thinking of starting your own at home lash/brow biz (or any similar home beauty biz). Start with the Basics.
One of the most important things you can do to build and KEEP clientele is to have a dedicated studio space. No one wants to be lashed on the same bed you sleep on. No one wants to be lashed in any common living spaces like your living room or open basement. The client is in a vulnerable position, laying in someone's home with their eyes closed. They want to feel safe and relaxed. Once you have dedicated studio space, start with the basics and build from there as time goes on. Some things you will need for your space should include:
A massage table, esthetician bed or recliner
A comfortable pillow with cover (if using a table/bed)
A comfortable chair for you
A good source of light - ideally a ring light, Glamcor or Cosmoglo
A cart or storage cabinet to place all of your supplies
Keep your space neat and tidy. As business improves, add to your space. Decor. Different things/ways to improve clients comfort. Always think about how the space would make you feel and what message it would be sending if you were the client walking into the space. Things that aren't necessary at the beginning but would be a nice addition over time would be:
A debit/credit machine
Beverages/snacks
Plush blankets for added comfort
Ambiance. The experience starts right from when a client is even just thinking of booking with you. How easy or hard is it to do so? I know for myself, I am more inclined to book with a service provider if they have an online booking system. I like the feeling of being in control and being able to see what's available without having to disturb that potential service provider. Are appointment reminders sent the day before? I know this is huge for a lot of my clients. On the day of the appointment, when the client pulls up to your home, where do they park? Is it easy? Do they have to pay? Is your home presented well? Is the pathway clear? This is huge, especially for our Winnipeg winters. When they walk in, how far is it from the door to your studio space? Is it clean? Does it smell nice? During the appointment, is there music playing? Is there shouting or racket in the background? What payment methods are available? All of these things add to the entire experience and are definitely a factor in whether or not that client is coming back. Give It Your All. One of my lash industry idols once said, if you want people to take your business seriously, you need to take you seriously. Something so simple was such an eye opening statement for me. Do this from the start and save yourself the regret later. When it comes to business, some things I suggest are:
Do some research and find out if you need to be licensed/certified to offer the service in your area. Your motto from the start of your business should be C.Y.A. (cover your ass). The last thing you want is to find yourself in some legal trouble.
Look into business insurance.
Consider the pros & cons of registering your business & set money aside regularly for tax time.
Track your finances, especially profitability. You need money to make money. Keep your business and personal finances separate. This is something I wish I did since the start of my business. Doing so gives you a better snapshot of your viability. Read/Listen to the book: Profit First by Mike MIchalowicz
Create policies and stick to them otherwise you'll end up feeling taken advantage of.
Offer a few services that compliment each other as opposed to offering every beauty service under the moon. What are you really the master of if you offer many different services? If you are being true to yourself, you would not be getting the practice you need to be the master of a service if you aren't constantly working on that one (or two) service types.
Be Yourself. Seems so simple but its often overlooked. You might look at others who are doing what you want to do or are where you eventually would like to be but don't compare. They were once where you are. Don't try and be something you aren't. You have your own offerings. You have your own style and personality and you want to attract people who align with who you are. Stay humble and appreciate every step of the way. You are not the same person you were a year ago. Two years ago. Five years ago. Same thing goes for your business. It takes time. The Hard Truth. Everyone who lives in your home should be on board with you having a home-based business. I'm grateful to have a supportive husband and well-behaved kids who know when I'm working and that loud play isn't appropriate during that time. You will lose a room in your home. Do you have the space for that? Are you able to keep up with constantly cleaning up after people? Do you like being home? Its not easy but its definitely worth it. I know its easy to feel extra relaxed about how your home looks but remember that at the end of the day, you are very fortunate to have people who trust you with their lashes/brows to be able to step into a strangers home for a luxury service so make sure the space reflects your appreciation. Be professional. ----- Looking back on where I started to where I am now.. its crazy to see how much ILS has grown. These are just some of the things I wish I knew when starting my business. If you have any questions or want to chat more about this, reach out to me! I offer mentoring sessions where I can help you get started or help you analyze ways to improve your business and take it to the next level. Til Next Time, Carolyn
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