Starting a mobile salon is a flexible way to get into the beauty industry. This service gives you the freedom to work on your own terms while offering convenience to your clientele. This fact alone is why it’s no surprise that mobile salons are gaining in popularity.
If you’ve been dreaming about creating your own beauty business but don’t know where to start, we have you covered. This guide will walk you through the basics of setting up a mobile salon with the right portable equipment details that should give you a good head start.
Step 1: Make a Plan for Your Mobile Salon
Before you start giving clients bombshell blowouts or top-tier manicures, you need a solid foundation for your mobile salon business. This should begin with researching and securing the required licenses and permits.
Depending on your state or country, you might need specific certifications or a mobile business license. Check with local authorities to ensure you’re compliant with all requirements.
Don’t skip signing up for insurance during this step. While you might have a license to perform these services in someone’s home, a business liability policy will protect you and your clients in case of an accident.
Next, build your service menu. What will your specialties be? Haircuts? Gel manicures? Spray tans? Choose services you excel at and can easily perform in a mobile setting. Keep in mind that you don’t need to offer everything right away; start small and expand as you grow.
Step 2: Invest in Portable Salon Equipment
Portable salon equipment is what truly brings your mobile salon business from a dream to a reality. The equipment needs to be functional, professional, and easy to transport. Below are must-have items to ensure you’re fully equipped for success.
Portable Hair Styling Bundle
If hair services are on your service menu, a portable hair styling setup will be one of your most important investments. Look for a lightweight folding salon chair that’s as comfy as it is easy to carry. Pair it with a compact shampoo bowl that comes with a drainage hose attachment for added convenience. If you find a chair with height-adjustable features, that’s even better!
Nail Station Essentials
For nail techs, a professional, portable manicure station is a nonnegotiable piece of equipment. You’ll need tables with foldable legs for easy setup and storage. To round things out, don’t forget a portable UV LED lamp for long-lasting gel polish applications and a travel organizer to neatly store polishes and tools.
Makeup and Skin Care
Every makeup artist and skin care professional needs a multifunctional rolling makeup case with ample compartments for cosmetics, brushes, and skin care products. Just be sure to choose a storage case with built-in lights or LED mirrors for flawless application in varying lighting conditions.
Electrical Tools
Whether you’re styling hair or giving facials, electrical tools like a hair dryer, straightener, or ultrasonic facial wand are necessary. If possible, choose cordless or rechargeable options to eliminate the hassle of managing wires, especially when working in clients’ homes where an outlet might not be accessible.
Carts and Storage
A portable cart will be your best friend. It will store all your tools, reduce clutter during a job, and prevent you from losing anything while at the client’s house. Many options come with dividers and trays, making it easy to organize everything from scissors to hair dye.
Sanitation Station
Good hygiene is a priority when you’re providing a service, especially when working in an environment you don’t have direct control over. That’s why you should put together a sanitation station.
The station should include travel-sized disinfectants, a portable sink or water supply bags for waterless services, disposable gloves, towels, and trash bags. Sanitizing every item will maintain your professionalism and increase your clients’ trust.
Step 3: Market Your Mobile Salon
With the mobile salon equipment ready to go, the next step is booking clients. Start by creating a standout social media presence. Instagram and TikTok are the go-to platforms. Post before-and-after photos, share videos of the portable salon setup, and showcase your client success stories. People love engaging with behind-the-scenes transformations.
Next, build a Google My Business profile. This ensures your mobile salon pops up when local clients search for haircuts, nail services, or makeup artistry nearby. Don’t underestimate the power of being searchable.
On top of that, word-of-mouth marketing is incredible for this type of business. Ask your first clients to leave reviews online or share testimonials on your platforms. And yes, don’t hesitate to offer a small discount for referrals.
Lastly, consider unique strategies like partnerships with local events or coworking spaces. Think of bridal shows, community fairs, or corporate pampering days. The more visible you are, the more clients will resonate with your high-quality yet convenient services.
Step 4: Manage Your Business’s Finances
Finances can be tricky for a new business owner. How you price services, budget for expenses, and manage the cash flow can directly affect your salon’s success.
Establish Prices for Services
The most important thing is to price your services appropriately. Research what other mobile salons or traditional salons charge in your area, but don’t undervalue yourself. Factor in expenses such as travel, equipment, and the premium convenience you’re offering. Tiered pricing works wonders for many mobile salons. People can easily choose a package that works well for their budget.
Create a Budget
Next, get your budget in order. Divide your expenses into initial investments including portable salon equipment branding, ongoing costs including beauty products and gasoline for traveling, and marketing costs.
While it might be tempting to use as much money as you can for these expenses, it’s ideal to have a financial cushion for unforeseen challenges. For example, you might need to replace a favorite hairdryer unexpectedly or find yourself needing extra disinfecting supplies during flu season.
Use Payment Tools
Finally, consider using mobile-friendly invoicing and payment tools. Apps like Square or Venmo are convenient for you and your clients because the payment tools can quickly process payments. Clients love businesses that make paying fast and simple.
Starting a new business requires ample preparation. Follow these steps to set your mobile salon up for success!