In this article, we’ll share some of the best salon ideas to attract new clients.

What attracts clients to a salon? Ideas to bring new clients to your salon.

The salon business is competitive but rewarding. To attract clients, you’ll need to offer to create an unforgettable experience. Here are seven salon ideas to bring in new clients to your salon and keep them coming back.

#1 Create a welcoming ambiance

Your salon’s ambiance sets the tone for the entire client experience. Clients want a space that feels inviting, relaxing, and stylish. The right atmosphere will make clients feel pampered from the moment they walk in the door. Whether you own your own salon or rent a salon suite, be sure to invest in comfortable seating, soft lighting, and even soothing music.

#2 Hire the best of the best

Clients seek out salons with skilled professionals who can deliver top-tier results. Whether you’re hiring hairstylists or nail technicians for your salon, you need to know they can fulfill clients’ beauty needs with confidence. Be sure to train your staff and encourage them to stay on top of the latest trends and techniques.

#3 Offer in-demand services 

To get more clients in your door, stay on top of in-demand salon services. For example, offer personalized hair consultations. One-size-fits-all approaches don’t cut it anymore. Clients appreciate salons that offer personalized consultations to understand their unique preferences and concerns. By taking the time to listen and tailor your services to individual needs, you demonstrate your commitment to client satisfaction and build brand loyalty. You can even earn some extra money from these consultations.

What types of services are most requested in a salon?

Your requested services will vary depending on current trends, client preferences, and even location! But there are a few tried and true services that never go out of style. Make sure these are on the service list:

• Haircuts and Styling: Haircare services, including haircuts, styling, and treatments, are consistently in high demand.
• Hair Coloring: Whether it’s covering gray hair, achieving a natural look, or making a bold statement with vibrant colors, hair coloring services are immensely popular. From highlights and balayage to full-color transformations, clients seek out skilled colorists to achieve their desired look.
• Manicures and Pedicures: Nail care services are a staple in many salons, with clients indulging in manicures and pedicures to keep their hands and feet looking and feeling their best. Gel polish, nail art, and spa treatments are often requested add-ons.
• Facials and Skincare Treatments: As skincare becomes increasingly important in beauty routines, facials and skincare treatments are in high demand. You may want to collaborate with a local esthetician or have one on staff. 

#4 Make hygiene a priority

Cleanliness is non-negotiable in the salon industry. Clients prioritize a clean and hygienic environment when they choose a salon. They want to feel confident that their health and safety are prioritized. Maintain impeccable workstations and equipment to reassure clients and earn their trust.

#5 Invest in High-Quality Products

The products you use during a session can make or break the client experience. Clients like salons that use high-quality, reputable products known for delivering A+ results. (And they’re willing to pay a premium for better products!) Invest in professional-grade products that align with your salon’s brand and ethos. For example, use hair care products with natural ingredients if you’re a holistic salon. 

Also, don’t hesitate to educate clients on the benefits of these products for their beauty routines. You may even make some product sales to earn an extra income.

#6 Offer Convenient Booking Options 

In today’s salon market, convenience is key. Clients prefer salons that make booking easy. Your best bet is to get a user-friendly booking app. Booking apps, like PocketSuite, give you an online booking site and send out automated reminders to streamline your booking process and enhance the overall client experience.

#7 Get more online reviews

Referrals and reviews are the most powerful tools to get new business for your salon. Clients often turn to online reviews to gauge the reputation and reliability of your salon. You should encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews on your Google Business Page and social media channels. They will showcase your salon’s strengths and attract new clients in the process. PocketSuite makes it easy to solicit more 5-star reviews from clients with our Google Leads and Reviews feature.

The Bottom Line

Use these salon ideas to have the best business year yet in 2024! Remember, little details that make all the difference in building lasting client relationships and thriving in the competitive beauty industry. PocketSuite can help. We’re an all-in-one scheduling tool for salon owners and independent stylists. We offer everything you need to run a successful hair business.

In this article, we compare estheticians to cosmetologists to help aspiring beauty business owners choose the best path.

What is a cosmetologist?

A cosmetologist is trained to perform a wide range of beauty services. They typically have the skills of a hairstylist, nail tech, and makeup artist in one. Some people use the term cosmetologist to refer to someone who specializes in any one of these beauty areas. However, a cosmetologist is trained and licensed to perform services across some or all of these beauty disciplines. 

What is an esthetician? 

While cosmetologists are trained in a number of beauty disciplines, estheticians are experts in skincare. An esthetician is a licensed skincare specialist. They are trained and licensed to perform a variety of skin treatments on clients, like waxing, facials, and chemical peels. 

What are the biggest differences between estheticians and cosmetologists? 

Before we tackle the the big question, i.e., Esthetician vs cosmetologist: which business you start?, we need to understand their differences. As a beauty pro, you might handle everything from hair to skin to nails or choose to specialize. While there are people who use the terms interchangeably, it’s important to know the difference between an esthetician and a cosmetologist. 

Here are the main differences between estheticians and cosmetologists.  

#1 Education and Training

Whether you become an esthetician or a cosmetologist, you must attend a beauty school. Beauty school is key to growing your beauty career. Usually, beauty professionals go to cosmetology courses at an independent beauty school or attend a community college. You can enroll in a certificate program at a beauty school or work to get your Associate’s degree in Cosmetology. 

While cosmetologists and estheticians both attend beauty school, their coursework will look very different. For example, cosmetologists may learn some specialized skin care treatments during beauty school. But it’s unlikely that an esthetician will train in other beauty disciplines as part of their core program. Also, estheticians are trained to use specialized equipment for treatments like microdermabrasion and LED therapy. Either way, students get a mix of hands-on training and theoretical classes. 

Cosmetology school prepares you to grow as a beauty professional and run your own business. So expect to learn about client management and retention, as well as participate in a student-run clinic.  Beauty school can take anywhere from a few months to two years to complete. So, be prepared to make a time commitment. The good news is that there are usually options in your area to attend cosmetology or esthetician school online.  These are typically hybrid programs for flexibility. 

#2 Licensing 

Both estheticians and cosmetologists must obtain a license to perform beauty services. Licensing requirements vary from state to state. So, check your local laws.

Estheticians typically need to complete 600 hours of training and pass an exam to obtain their license.  In general, cosmetologists must receive more training hours, around 1,500, to receive their license. In some states, you may have to obtain a cosmetology license to perform esthetic services.

Beauty professionals may be required to receive continuing education credits to renew their license.

#3 Services

As an esthetician, you’ll analyze your client’s skin type, identify problem areas, and recommend treatments of products to help them crush their skincare goals.

As a cosmetologist, you’ll be able to offer a variety of services to clients. They can get their hair, makeup, and nails done all from one provider. It’s particularly convenient for events like weddings where the clients need all of these services anyway. 

Cosmetologists don’t have to specialize. They can keep their services general to attract a wider client base. However, this can have its drawbacks. For example, some clients prefer to see an expert. So, it’s good to have a specialty you’re known for, like weave installation or microblading. 

#4 Income 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, cosmetologists earn about $39,000 per year on average, while estheticians earn about $48,000 per year on average. That’s a big gap, but it can vary depending on where you live and what kind of beauty services you provide.

Whether you choose to become an esthetician or cosmetologist, you can earn more money by starting your own business. As a business owner, you’ll build a loyal client list, make your own schedule, and set your own rates. Independent estheticians and cosmetologists can earn six figures per year by focusing on their own businesses. 

#5 Career Outcomes

Estheticians and cosmetologists have vastly different career outcomes. Estheticians usually work in spas or salons and may become: 

• Spa technicians or managers performing general esthetics services like facials, chemical peels, etc
• Hair removal specialists skilled at waxing, threading, sugaring, or laser treatments
• Permanent makeup technicians with expertise in lip tinting, microblading, etc. 

Estheticians can go on to specialize as medical estheticians or master estheticians if they want to perform advanced treatments and earn more money. They might even work in a medical facility.

On the other hand, cosmetologists may have more variety when it comes to where they can work. Cosmetologists might be anything from barbers to braiding specialists to nail and brow technicians. Or, they can offer a combination of all these beauty services. It’s a good option if you want to be a part of the beauty industry but don’t want to limit yourself to one discipline. 

Have you made your choice?

Many aspiring beauty professionals eventually have to make a choice: esthetician vs cosmetologist. Both are profitable careers. Just make sure the education, skills, and outcomes align with your personal career goals. 
Whatever you choose, PocketSuite can help grow your beauty business. We’re an all-in-one app to manage clients and earn more money doing what you love.

Keep reading to learn about the best certifications to obtain as a professional business coach.

What is the best coaching qualification to have?

If you want to grow your coaching business, it’s best to get your hands on a reputable business coach certification. Certified coaches charge three times more on average than coaches without certification. Plus, 85% of coaching clients think it’s important that their coach holds some kind of certification or credential.

Here are the top business coaching certifications to have in 2023. 

#1 International Coaching Federation

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is considered the gold standard in business coaching credentials: The ICF offers its own coaching programs as well as accredits other coaching programs. So, you can earn an ICF business coach certification by taking an ICF-approved training program. 

ICF credentials are grounded in their core competencies that determine what makes a superior business coach. These include:

• Demonstrates ethical practices
• Embodies a coaching mindset
• Establishes and maintains agreements
• Cultivates trust and safety
• Maintains presence
• Listens actively
• Evokes awareness
• Facilitates clients growth 

There are three credentials you can earn from the ICF:

1. Associate Certified Coach (ACC): To earn this credential, you must complete at least 60 hours of coach training and 100 hours of practical client experience. 
2. Professional Certified Coach (PCC): To receive your PCC credential, you must complete 125 hours of coaching education or training along with 500 hours spent coaching actual clients. 
3. Master Certified Coach (MCC): You will need to earn a PCC before receding this credential. Plus, you must complete 200 hours of education and 2,500 hours of client coaching. 

ICF credentials are recognized worldwide. They’re a great option for independent coaches who want to boost the credibility of their coaching business. 

#2 Worldwide Association of Business Coaches 

The Worldwide Association of Business Coaches (WABC) is a global leader in coaching programs for individuals and companies. Their programs are designed for professionals with diverse backgrounds and at any stage of their coaching journey. 

The WABC believes coaching should be grounded in real-world experience, whether you’re a full-time dedicated coach for a company or a team leader looking to add coaching to their toolbox.  

The WABC offers four business coach certification levels:

4. Registered Corporate Coach (RCC): The RCC arms you with specialized business coaching skills, boosting your credibility over your competition. It’s designed for professionals with little to no business coaching experience or training. It’s a good option if you’re just starting out in your coaching career journey. 
5. WABC Certified Business Coach (CBC): The CBC offers more advanced business coaching skills with a particular emphasis on professionals who want to enhance their client service skills. It’s a good option if you already have experience as a senior manager or internal business coach.
6. WABC Certified Master Business Coach (CMBC): The CMBC is designed to position you as a leader in your field, capable of handling complex solutions. Just know that you’ll need a minimum of five years of business coaching experience to take on this credential. 
7. Chartered Business Coach (ChBC): The ChBC marks as you as one the most qualified coaches in your industry with senior experience and proof of producing long-term results.

These business coach certifications are a great option for independent coaches who want to see steady growth in their coaching business.

#3 International Association of Coaching

For 20+ years, The International Association of Coaching (IAC) has been a leading body for coaching professionals. Unlike other coaching certifications, they don’t prioritize a certain number of training or hours. Instead, the IAC places more emphasis on skills like:

• Communication
• Awareness of cultural differences,
• Ability to shift perspectives
• Creating sustainable plans
• Producing meaningful results

The IAC offers two business coaching certifications i.e., the Certified Coach (IAC-CC) and Master Coach (IAC-MC). 

You can receive an IAC business coach certification in two steps. First, you complete an online test, and then you submit a recorded coaching demonstration between you and a client. IAC coaching certifications should be renewed every five years. 

#4 The Center for Executive Coaching

The Center for Executive Coaching offers an ICF-approved training program. It’s specially designed for those who want to coach leaders, executives, and solo entrepreneurs in different industries. Their program focuses on the hands-on, results-driven aspect of coaching rather than theory. 

Unlike other certification programs, the center offers personalized training and 1:1 support.  You’ll leave with the confidence and competence to help business leaders achieve their goals.

#5 Coactive Training Institute

Co-Active is said to be one of the most rigorous and sought-after training programs in the industry. With 130k+ coaches trained, this established organization offers an excellent program. 

Their training program is flexible and proven to prudence top-tier, some of whom work for Fortune 100 companies. Coactive claims that over 50% of budding professional coaches are trained by CTI. So, you’ll be in good company and be able to market a recognizable certification to clients.

To complete the program and earn a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) designation, you must go through their fundamental and coaching mastery training.

Get Certified

A business coach certification is key to growing your coaching business. Just make sure you choose a well-respected credential that meets your needs. You’ll attract more clients and earn more money.

PocketSuite can help with all the rest. We’re an all-in-one tool to grow a successful coaching business. You can schedule appointments, send contracts, and solicit Google reviews straight from your phone.

We put together a list of celebrities that went to beauty school. Fair warning, some members of the list will shock you!

These High-Profile Celebs Went To Beauty School

Celebs…they’re just like us! As a beautician, you know beauty school is no walk in the park. Can you believe some of your favorite stars walked in your shoes? 

Here are six celebrities that went to beauty school. 

#1 Danny Devito

Danny Devito is best known for his brash and hilarious roles in TV and film hits like It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Matilda. His extensive acting career has earned him dozens of awards, including a Golden Globes and Critic’s Choice award (as well as a few Emmy nominations.) But, before he was a comedy legend, Devito worked as a hairstylist and beautician.

We know what you’re thinking: How did that happen? 

Danny Devito’s sister owned a beauty parlor. She offered to pay for him to go to beauty school and promised to give him a job at the parlor if he did.  Devito took her up on the offer and attended the Wilfred Academy. He eventually got his license and worked in his sister’s parlor for two years.

If that’s not shocking enough, Devito says working as a beautician led to his acting career. He wanted to take makeup lessons, and the only available makeup teacher worked at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. He enrolled in the school to get private lessons, and that’s where he started acting.

#2 Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is best known for her portrayals in Hollywood hits like The Color Purple, Ghost, and Sister Act. Not to mention, she’s been a recurring host on The View since 2007. Her truly impressive career has made her one of only 18 EGOT winners in Hollywood history.  

It’s hard to picture Whoopi Goldberg as anything other than an acting legend. But, before she made a name for herself in Hollywood, Whoopi attended beauty school and was a licensed beautician. 

But unlike most beauty pros, Whoopi used her skills on “unconventional” clients. In an episode of Oprah’s Master Class, Whoopi shares that she once worked in a funeral home, doing makeup on dead people. The actress admits it was a rough gig but that she enjoyed giving the deceased a worthy send-off. 

#3 Serena Williams

Our next celeb needs no introduction (but we’ll give her one anyway!)  With 23 Grand Slam titles, Serena Williams is a tennis legend. She’s known for dedication and drive on and off the court. Still, it’s hard to believe one of the greatest tennis players of all time could fit beauty school into her tight schedule. 

Unlike her famous counterparts, Williams went to beauty school AFTER she hit the spotlight. In 2020, Williams shared that she loves getting her nails done so much that she decided to become a manicurist. (Who doesn’t love a side hustle?) The tennis pro enrolled in a 240-hour class at a school in Palm Beach to become a certified nail technician. We have no doubt she conquered cosmetology school with the same tenacity as the rest of her career. 

Thankfully, the tennis star documented her nail tech journey on Instagram! 

#4 Fran Drescher 

Before she was everyone’s favorite fashionista in The Nanny, Fran Drescher was a real-life beautician. According to Vogue, she was enrolled in cosmetology school while trying to make it as an actor. 

She wanted to become a hairdresser. Drescher even had the opportunity to cut Dennis Quaid’s hair before she became famous. We have no doubt her career helped her get into character for the 1997 film, The Beautician and The Beast. 

Today, you can find Fran Drescher taking on Broadway and the 2023 actor’s strike as SAG-AFTRA’s president. 

#5 John Corbett

Before he was stealing hearts in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, John Corbett was a licensed hairstylist. This one is less surprising because John Corbett has rocked some legendary hairstyles over the years. 

According to a 2006 interview for his hometown newspaper, Corbett studied hairdressing in cosmetology school for a year while studying theater at night. After beauty school, Corbett regularly worked in hair salons before he was discovered by Universal Studios for a Jack In The Box commercial.

These days, John Corbett can be found playing the “cool dad” in To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before. Good news: his hair still looks amazing! 

#6 Amanda Bynes

Amanda Bynes is best known for her years as a child star on Nickelodeon hits like The Amanda Show and All That. As she got older, she became an early 2000’s rom-com “it girl,” starring in films like She’s the Man, What a Girl Wants, and Easy A. 

After years of stardom, Amanda Bynes has taken a step back from the spotlight.  But she’s keeping her hands busy! In 2022, Bynes shared that she enrolled in cosmetology school to become a manicurist. As of October 2022, she had already completed 100 of the mandatory 400 hours to receive her cosmetology license. We wish her the best of luck!

Bonus: Kim Kardashian 

From reality star to billionaire entrepreneur, Kim Kardashian is all but a household name. Years before taking on law school, Kim took makeup lessons at the famous Joe Blasco Inc as a gift from her father. Though she never enrolled in beauty school full-time or became a professional makeup artist, Kim now owns a multi-million-dollar makeup brand. So, all’s well that ends well! 

The Bottom Line

If these celebs can take on beauty school and live to tell the tale, so can you! Cosmetology school sets you on the path to becoming a licensed beauty professional. You’ll be able to start your own business, manage clients and earn more money. 

PocketSuite can help with the rest. We’re an all-in-one app to run your beauty business.

GlossGenius is a go-to booking app for hair, makeup, and skincare pros. But it’s still missing some essential features to run a beauty business. And you might need other apps to fill the gaps.

We dive into some issues with GlossGenius and compare the app to PocketSuite.

What’s the problem with GlossGenius?

GlossGenius is a leading booking and payment platform for beauty professionals. Hair stylists, make-up artists, and estheticians use the app to manage clients and run their businesses. 

On the surface, GlossGenius is a decent option. But when you dig in, the platform seems to be more style than substance. It’s an aesthetically pleasing app, but it’s missing some basic functionality. 

Here are seven problems users may have with GlossGenius and how PocketSuite solves them.

#1 Limited Forms 

As a beauty pro, forms and contracts are a must. Sometimes you need a client to fill out an intake form and agree to a contract before the appointment . But if you’re booking with Gloss Genius, you may be out of luck.

GlossGenius only provides forms and waivers on its Gold Plan. This plan is $48 per month, and it’s actually meant for teams. So, solo professionals have to pay double the cost of a regular subscription just to have this basic feature.

At PocketSuite, we know forms are essential. All our users have access to forms and contracts. You can attach them directly to your appointments. And to get you set up quickly, we even created custom templates just for beauty pros.

#2 Rigid Appointment Reminders 

Nothing’s worse than a no-show. That’s why beauty professionals rely on appointment reminders to keep their chairs booked.  

GlossGenius does send appointment reminders to your clients, but only 24 hours before the appointment. And they won’t send a reminder at all if they book less than 24 hours before an appointment. This might cause issues for your long-term appointments like bridal makeup or next-day services. 

With PocketSuite, you can send appointment reminders anywhere from 3 days to 2 hours before an appointment. It’s totally up to you! We know every client is different. So, you can even set a custom reminder frequency for specific clients 

#3 No Invoices or Estimates

Invoices and estimates are a staple for any service business. They help you land more bookings and get paid faster. GlossGenius will send your client a receipt after a payment has been made. But, oddly enough, GlossGenius doesn’t seem to offer invoices or estimates as one of their features. 

PocketSuite allows you to send custom invoices and estimates to all of your clients. You can add additional items or expenses and schedule invoices so they’re sent out automatically.

#4 No Business Line or Client Messaging 

It’s important to stay in contact with your clients. But it gets frustrating texting clients from your personal phone number. And GlossGenius doesn’t offer a solution for you to message directly. 

The app does send confirmation and follow-up texts to your clients. But clients can’t respond to you or vice versa, which makes communication complicated.

PocketSuite has advanced in-app client messaging and offers a business line to all premium subscribers. You see all communications with your clients in the PocketSuite app. And their replies come straight to you. You can even create and save message templates to share with clients quickly.

#5 Limited Booking and Services

GlossGenius’s booking workflow leaves a lot to be desired. For one thing, there’s no way to bundle your services as a package or membership. If you want to sell a package of services on GlossGenius, you can set it up as a single service. But, this makes it difficult to track the number of services your clients used in that package. 

PocketSuite allows you to sell services as packages or subscriptions. This way, you can make more money from a single sale. And we automatically keep track of appointment usage. 

Also, with GlossGenius, you have to take time to set up a client profile and add their details at checkout. This can be frustrating for last-minute or walk-in appointments. Booking shouldn’t be a pain. So, PocketSuite gives you the option to make anonymous charges and sales. 

#6 Short Free Trial

When it comes to business software, you need time to adjust. Unfortunately, GlossGenius only offers a 14-day free trial before you have to pay up. Are 14 days really long enough to decide if this is the best app for booking, payments, and marketing?

It’s likely you’ll spend most of that time transferring over your business without the opportunity to use your workflow before committing to a payment. Before you know it, you’re locked into an app that doesn’t work for you.

At PocketSuite, you have 30 days of free access to our full list of features. 

#7 Lacking Customer Support 

A lot can go wrong with a booking app. Just look at dozens of reviews this year of the GlossGenius app crashing. Crashes and bugs make it difficult to run your business. When they do happen, you need A+ customer service. 

According to GlossGenius reviews, you may not get much help. At PocketSuite, you can message our support team anytime, right in the app. Or, hop on to one of our customer support calls in PocketSuite Academy. 

Bonus:  Affiliate Opportunities

At PocketSuite, we love to reward our pros. Our affiliates earn $50 (real cash) for every referral who completes the purchase of an annual plan. And your referrers get $50 off their annual plan. 

GlossGenius does offer a referral program. But you and your referrers only get $30 worth of subscription credit, i.e., the money’s going right back into GlossGenius. 

The PocketSuite affiliate program puts money in your pocket!

Are you ready to make the switch?

With all the limits to GlossGenius, you may find yourself shopping around for other apps to fill those gaps. You can avoid that with PocketSuite. We’re an all-in-one app to run your beauty business. 

If you’re already using GlossGenius (or another booking platform), let our dedicated Imports Team upload your client and appointment data from GlossGenius into our app. It’s easy!

Read this guide to learn how to transfer from GlossGenius to PocketSuite.

There are lots of annual events for hair professionals. So, we rounded up the top events to help grow your hair business in 2023.

What hair expo should I attend in 2023?

Each year, dozens of companies and membership organizations host conferences to bring together hair professionals from across the country. Hair shows are a mix of classes, workshops, seminars, and exhibits. And there’s typically a few fun excursions or parties on the agenda. You get to learn more about your industry and make connections to grow your business. 

Here are eight hair expos and beauty trade shows coming up in 2023.

#1 America’s Beauty Show 

America’s Beauty Show, hosted by Cosmetologists Chicago, is a highly anticipated event for all beauty professionals. You can look forward to parties, exhibits, and live classes. And hear from industry experts on topics like:

• Cutting techniques
• Text marketing to grow a business
• Mastering undertones
• The ultimate balayage
• The beauty of finance
• Make more money with express blowouts

Also, stick around to see the winners of the ABS global image awards. Stylists can win awards for a number of beauty categories, such as barbering, hair cutting, and texture expert. 

The event offers 40+ CEU courses. 

Date: April 15th – April 15th 2023

Cost: $79- $159. Salon groups and students may get discounted prices.

Location: Rosemont, IL

#2 Cosmoprof 

Cosmoprof North America is a B2B event for beauty professionals. The event focuses on professional retail and distribution of hair care, skincare, and beauty products. It’s a place to collaborate and build relationships in the hair and makeup industry.  

You can sit in on “Cosmo Talks,”  i.e., speaker presentations on topics like mass distribution, the fragrance industry outlook, or indie beauty trends. Or, you can join their buyer program to connect with exhibitors in pre-arranged meetings.

Attend to see the launch of new beauty brands, get a front-row seat to live demos, and learn about creative packaging and manufacturing techniques. 

Date: July 11th – July 13th, 2023

Cost: Not Available

Location: Las Vegas, NV

#3 Premiere Orlando 

Premiere Orlando is one of the largest beauty shows in the United States. The conference offers education opportunities from top-tier beauty pros and exhibits from popular companies.  You can choose from over 650 professional courses in topics like:

• Hair loss
• Texture curls and locs
• Extensions, wigs, and weaves 
• Barbershop
• Hair trends 
• Social media marketing 

Or take part in the job fair, attend parties, and participate in competitions. It’s a great option for beauty professionals that are curious about everything from color trends to cutting techniques to barber designs. 

Premier Orlando is not open to the public. You must be a licensed professional to attend.

Premier offers two other beauty shows this year in San Antonio (Oct. 1st) and Columbus (Oct. 8th).

Date: June 3rd  – June 5th 

Cost: $75 – $125 (Professional), $55 – $105 (Student)

Location: Orlando, FL

#4 International Beauty Show

The International Beauty Show is a dynamic hair event. You can view live presentations and demos by popular hair artists.  Or, take part in hands-on workshops led by exceptional hairstylists. 

You can choose from 80 professional classes to learn how to hone your hair techniques, maximize your business growth and improve your client experience. Topics include:

• How to fire a client and avoid negative reactions
• Create social media to boost your business
• From zero to fully booked in under 12 weeks
• 5 steps to Six-figure Solopreneurship
• Learn to Cut the It-Girl Bob

And, if you’re up for a stroll, browse hundreds of beauty products, services, and tech on the exhibit floor.

Date:June 24th – June 26th, 2023

Cost: $75 – $350 

Location: Las Vegas, NV

#5 PBA Executive Summit

This event, hosted by the Professional Beauty Association, was made with leaders in mind. It’s an exclusive place for salon and spa owners, manufacturers, and distributors to share their expertise and collaborate on industry ideas. 

The 2023 speakers have yet to be announced. But, last year’s speakers included top-tier experts like:

• Heather Mcgowan – renowned business strategist and future of work expert
• Brian Solis – digital anthropologist and VP of Global Innovation at Salesforce
• Larissa Jensen – Vice President and Beauty Industry Advisor at Circana

You can save on this event with a PBA membership. 

Date: November 13th – November 14th, 2023

Cost: Not available

Location: Phoenix, AZ

#6 CT Barber Expo

It’s time to clean your clippers! The Barber Expo is almost here. You can attend education seminars led by top barbers and visit the trade show floor to browse booths from popular brands and barber shops. 

It won’t be all work and no play. At the expo, barbers take to the stage to compete and see who can produce the best cut. Who knows? You may even win a Barber Grammy award!

Date: May 20th – May 22nd, 2023

Cost: $25 – $265

Location: Montville, CT

#7 AACS Annual Conference

The American Association of Cosmetology Schools brings together owners and directors of cosmetology schools across the nation for its annual conference. It’s a motivational space to learn from industry leaders, collaborate with your peers, and get updates on government laws and regulations that can impact your business. 

This event caters to cosmetology school professionals, but it may be a good choice if you’re interested in a career in beauty education.

Date: October 13th – 14th, 2023

Cost: TBD (In 2022, non-members paid $475 – $950 for tickets to the conference.)

Location: Houston, TX

#8 Image Expo 

The Image Expo is the largest hair and beauty trade show in Texas. The image expo is all about hair care and hair styling techniques. Watch presentations and live demos from featured speakers. Or, get your gloves on for classes and workshops, like: 

• The future of hair color
• Buildable looks
• Balayage techniques
• Chunky highlights
• Beginner brainding courde
• Hair loss
• And much more!

You can also take part in their Fantasy Hair Competition, where hairstylists compete for the most otherworldly look!

You earn 1 CE credit just for attending the show.

Date: November 12 – November 13th 

Cost: $75

Location: Houston, TX

Register Today!

Whether you’re a color specialist, barber, or braider, a hair expo can help grow your business. Take your pick from dozens of hair expos and beauty trade shows in 2023 to learn from industry experts and expand your network. You’ll leave with new techniques and tips to help your clients. 

PocketSuite can help grow your hair business. We’re an all-in-one app to manage bookings and communicate with clients. You can schedule appointments, accept payments and sell products straight from your phone.

Here’s everything you need to know about a career as a hair braider.

Hair Braider Career 

Before starting your journey as a hair braider, there are some things you need to know about the career to decide if it’s a right fit for you:

• You must be comfortable standing for a prolonged period because it can take several hours to complete new braids for an entire head of hair.
• To find employment or clients, you must scour job boards, knock on salon doors with your resume, and join networking groups or professional associations like, Professional Beauty Association and Associated Hair Professionals.
• A hair braiding session performed by an experienced professional can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the look the client desires. At current prices, working with only 2-3 clients per day can result in a nice income.

Hair Braider Salary

Are you still interested? Amazing! Read these guides to learn more about life as a professional hair braider and how to become an African hair braider.

Hairstylists typically make about $50,000 per year (including tips) working in a salon. But you have the potential to earn six figures a year by starting your own African hair braiding business. As a business owner, you’ll set your rates and control your schedule. Clients are willing to spend hours in a salon chair and pay well for a perfect set of braids.

Are you ready to turn your hair braiding side hustle into a high-earning business? (We can’t wait!) You can start an African hair braiding business and make more money doing what you love. It will take time to build a loyal client list and hit six figures per year, but it’s worth the wait!

Read this guide to learn how to build a six-figure African hair braiding business.

Hair Braider School and Training

Cosmetology school is where aspiring hair, nail, and skin specialists go to turn their passion into a certified professional career. Cosmetology school provides extensive, hands-on training so you can pass your licensing exams and take on clients like a pro! 

In cosmetology school, you study techniques to beautify hair, skin, and nails. You learn modern and classic concepts to make your clients look and feel great. Your instructors teach you essential skills to be a real-world cosmetologist. 

Many cosmetology schools don’t teach hair braiding. But some beauty schools and hair braiders offer specialty courses, like Ross Beauty Acadamy and Beauty Concepts Salon.

Ultimately, you should choose a cosmetology course that matches your state’s licensing requirements and has a strong focus on business development. After all, you’re there to advance your career.

Read this guide to learn more about cosmetology school.

Hair Braider License 

Most states require regular hairstylists to earn their cosmetology license before they can start a business. Thankfully, hair braiders have a bit of breathing room. In the US, 32 states exempt hair braiders from receiving a license.

Read more about the fight for braiding freedom. 

These are the states that still require braiders to get a cosmetology license: 

1. Hawaii
2. Montana
3. New Mexico
4. Wyoming

These states (plus Washington D.C.) require braiders to get a specialty license, 9 of which require coursework from a cosmetology program:: 

1. Oregon
2. Nevada
3. Missouri
4. Illinois
5. Louisiana
6. Alabama
7. Tennessee
8. North Carolina
9. South Carolina
10. Ohio
11. Pennsylvania
12. New York 
13. New Jersey

Open a Braiding Salon 

Hair professionals can take their business to new heights by opening a hair salon or barbershop. To get started, ensure you have all your necessary licenses and a clear business plan. And when you’re ready to open up shop, choose software that can easily manage your beloved clients.

Read our best tips for opening a hair salon. 

If you’re opening up shop, you’ll need to be insured. When accidents happen on the job, salon insurance helps you cover the costs. It can pay for legal fees, medical bills, repairs, and income reimbursements. Without salon insurance, you have to pay out of pocket if your property is damaged or a client or employee makes a claim. Yikes! 

Read this guide to learn how salon insurance can help your braiding business.

When your braiding salon is good to go, you’ll need to stock up on inventory. Most salon owners and hair professionals buy their products from wholesale distributors. These distributors have partnerships with popular hair brands. So, they can offer products to cosmetologists at a discounted rate. They act as a middleman between you and your favorite brands.

Learn more about Salon Service Group and other salon product distributors.

Tips for Hair Braiders

#1 Mix Up Your Services

Hair braiding is naturally repetitive but doesn’t have to be boring. You can take your hair braiding services to the next level by using a mix of colors in your styles. Clients will love it and tell their friends about your skills. So, it’s a great way to get repeat bookings for your business.

Read our best tips for mixing different braiding hair colors.

#2 Build a Social Media Presence

As a hairstylist, you already know what you love and what works for you and your current clients. So as an influencer, you can share what works for you! Authenticity truly shines through when you are talking about products that you already love. 

Many of these companies you love have affiliate programs where you can earn a commission whenever someone purchases through your link. This is an excellent way to share what you love and make extra income!

Learn how to become a hair influencer.

The Bottom Line

You can create a rewarding career as a hair braider with passion, training, and skill. You’ll build your business, set your rates, and hit your income goals. Who knows? You might even open a braiding salon.
Be sure to check our latest posts for professional hair braiders.

But what is a hair consultation? 

Keep reading! We tell you everything you need to know about hair consultations and how to use them to book more clients.

What is a hair consultation?

 A hair consultation is a pre-appointment conversation between you and your client. During a hair consultation, you’ll learn a client’s expectations for the real appointment and talk about their concerns. 

This is your chance to learn about their hair history and goals so that you can make a plan for the big day. It’s also a great time to introduce the client to other stylists or staff that will help you during the appointment.

Some stylists offer hair consultations as a separate service a few days (or even weeks) before the appointment. This is recommended if it’s your first time with a client. But you can also schedule a quick meeting on the day for one of your regulars. Either way, it’s important to block out time for a consultation before every session.

 Why Is a Hair Consultation Important? 

Good communication is key for a stylist. You want to schedule a time to make sure you’re on the same page, even if only to explain the difference between a balayage and an ombre. 

A hair consultation is a lifesaver before a big hair transformation, like a pixie cut or color change. And it’s essential if you’re styling an important event, like a wedding. It’s especially important for new clients who may not have experience with you or salons.

Hair consultations give you an opportunity to build trust with your client. You get to show them that you care about what they want. And you’ll have a better appointment day because of it.

Good hair consultations lead to reviews, referrals, and bookings! Nail the hair consultation, and you could land a client for life (or at least secure a good tip.)

6 Tips for a Successful Hair Consultation 

#1 Ask The Right Questions:

You have to ask the right questions to get more bookings from a hair consultation. In general, you should ask introductory questions to get a feel for their intentions and build trust and questions to understand their preferences. This helps you provide better recommendations.

It’s also good to learn about their hair care routine. A low-maintenance person won’t do well with a style that needs lots of upkeep. And be sure to ask about any allergies or medical conditions that could influence the appointment.

 Here are some go-to questions to ask during a hair consultation:

• How can I help you today?
• What is your biggest hair priority? 
• Do you have any inspo pictures?
• What do you like about your hair? 
• What’s your budget?
• What made you book my consultation service? 
• How did you learn about my business?

 #2 Keep It Conversational

A hair consultation is an opportunity to start your relationship on a high note. This shouldn’t be a stuffy, formal meeting. After all, you don’t want clients to feel like they’re at a job interview. So, be personable and keep it positive. Sit straight across from them and maintain eye contact. A part of being a hairstylist is building confidence in your clients. So, take steps to encourage them and make them feel comfortable.

#3 Do a Demo

Hair is a visual medium. It’s easier to show than tell. Feel free to do a quick demonstration of the style during the consultation. If your hair consultation is online, have a mannequin nearby or demonstrate on your own hair.

The good news is that clients know to come prepared with lots of hair inspo pictures, whether from Pinterest styles or trending celeb looks. If they don’t bring a picture, have some ready to show as an example.

Also, this is the perfect chance to demo and sell your products. Be prepared to answer questions about any products you sell, whether homemade or retail. Remember to detail the product, ingredients, instructions, and how it solves their problems.

#4 Take Notes

The key to a great meeting is to take notes (Or have a fellow stylist help you). Your notes act as a record for you and any other stylist who might step in when you’re unavailable. So, listen carefully. Take note of how they usually style their hair and clothes. You’ll be thankful to have something to look back on to choose the right style.

And be sure to update your notes after the actual appointment.

#5 Be Realistic

As a hairstylist, you have to be the voice of reason. You can perfectly execute a client’s request, but they still leave unhappy because the style is too far out of their comfort zone. It’s your job to keep them in check.

During the hair consultation, be honest about what’s possible for their hair. It’s not worth it to fill them with false hope. The good news is that there’s probably a better option they haven’t considered. This is where your hair expertise comes in handy.

#6 Know When It’s Not a Good Fit

You won’t be the right stylist for every client. If their expectations or price range don’t align with your business, let them know, and feel free to walk away. It’s better than going through with the booking and wasting your time and resources.

You probably have your rates listed on your booking site, but be extra transparent about pricing during the hair consultation.

How much should I charge for a hair consultation?

On average, stylists charge $50 for a hair consultation. But you can charge much more for weddings and special events.

A good hair consultation can land you new clients and repeat bookings. So it may be worth it to offer a consultation for free. Potential clients don’t know much about your services. A free consultation can get their foot in the door. 

The Bottom Line

A hair consultation is all about improving the client experience. It allows you to build rapport with clients and land more bookings. You can also earn extra cash if you charge for this service. So, don’t forget this crucial step.

PocketSuite can help you manage all those new bookings. We’re an all-in-one app to run your hair business. You can make more money using our full features, including appointment scheduling, contracts, invoicing, and payments.

But what is a Salon Service Group? And how does it compare to other distributors? 

Keep reading! We provide tips on buying products for your salon, give you the tl;dr on Salon Service Group, and recommend a few alternatives.

How Do Salons Buy Their Products?

Most salon owners and hair professionals buy their products from wholesale distributors, like Salon Service Group. These distributors have partnerships with popular hair brands. So, they can offer products to cosmetologists at a discounted rate. They act as a middleman between you and your favorite brands. 

Hairstylists and salon owners can save money buying from distributors. They also make money by selling their favorite products directly to clients. It’s good to buy wholesale if you plan on selling hair care items to your clients (and you should).

Typically, wholesale hair care distributors only sell to licensed cosmetologists or cosmetology students. So you don’t have to worry about them selling to your clients.

What’s The Alternative?

Instead of buying from a distributor, some hair pros develop a private label for their salon i.e., they create a unique line of hair care products with their own formula and branded packaging. It’s a good way to stand out from your competition and make more money from product sales. But you have to invest a lot more money upfront. And it takes time to research formulas and build your own brand.

What Is Salon Service Group? 

Salon Service Group sells wholesale hair and beauty products to licensed cosmetologists. If you’re a hair stylist or salon owner, it may be a good place to stock up on hair care essentials. 

On top of selling hair products and salon equipment, Salon Service Group offers educational and career resources for licensed cosmetologists, like in-person and online classes. For example, you can get certified in weft extensions or learn to perfect your blowout.

They also provide  marketing materials from the brands you shop for, like:

• Logos
• Social post templates
• Printable signs
• Price lists
• Product thumbnails

These resources make it easier for you to promote your products on social media or in your salon.

How Does Salon Service Group Work?

To get started with Salon Service Group, all you have to do is sign up for an account and start shopping. You’ll find deals from top brands like:

• Paul Mitchell
• Moroccanoil
• 18.21
• Aloxxi
• Keratherapy

You can purchase items online or in one of their stores across the U.S.

How Do I Choose The Right Products for My Hair Business?

Once you’re set up with an account, you can start shopping. But before you pull out your credit card, you need to be sure that the products are right for business. 

Here are a few best practices to follow when buying from a distributor.

1. Make sure the products fit your client’s lifestyle: You should choose products that appeal to your clients. They might prefer all-natural products or luxury items. Either way, ask yourself if the products are in your clients’ price range and solve any of their problems. 

2. Keep an eye on your competitors: It’s good to offer popular products that are in demand, but you should still make an effort to stand out. Offer products your clients can’t get anywhere else.

3. Keep it simple: Only use two or three brands in your salon, especially if you’re just starting out. It’s tempting to offer a wide range of products to appeal to every client. But this can overwhelm your staff and confuse your clients. You don’t want to end up with a mass of inventory and no one to buy it. 

What Are Some Alternatives to Salon Service Group?

If Salon Service Group doesn’t offer your preferred brands, don’t worry! There are more wholesalers out there. It shouldn’t be too hard one that fits your needs and your budget. Here are some options:

• Marlo Beauty Supply goes beyond salon brands, offering products and equipment for nail technicians, barbers, and estheticians. It’s convenient if you have other specialists working in your salon. 

• Jinny houses brands specifically for curly and Afro-textured hair. It’s a good option if you offer hair braiding services.

• At Cosmoprof, you’ll find a wide variety of hair and skin care brands, like Ouidad, Olaplex, and Murad.

Here’s a tip: Reach out to your favorite brands and ask if they partner with local distributors in your area.

How To Sell Hair Products to Clients

Whether you shop at Salon Service Group or another distributor, the tricky part is getting clients to buy. The good news is that you have an advantage because your clients already trust your hair care expertise.

Here are some tips on how to sell more products to clients.

• Make sure you (and your staff) are educated on the products. Your clients expect you to be a hair care expert. So, if they have a lot of questions, you should be ready with the answers. Some brands offer free training on their products. 

• Make the products easy to buy. You can add products to your services in the PocketSuite app or as stand-alone items on your custom booking page. So your clients don’t miss them on the way to checkout.

• Do product demonstrations. Use the products in your hair appointments, so clients can see the results. Show them how and when to use the product and tell them how it can solve their hair problems. 

Also, if you have a staff, motivate them with incentives to sell products. For example, allow them to earn a commission on every sale. 

The Bottom Line

Salon Service Group is one of many wholesale distributors for salon owners and hair pros. It may be a good option if you can find your preferred brands at a good price. If not, you can buy products from another distributor. Either way, make sure the products work for your clients.

PocketSuite has tools to help you sell hair care products to clients. We’re the all-in-one app for running your business. You can book clients, sell products, and receive payment straight from your phone.

How?

Keep reading! We teach you how to build a successful hair-braiding business.

How Much Money Can I Make Braiding Hair?

Hairstylists typically make about $50,000 per year (including tips) working in a salon. But you have the potential to earn six figures a year by starting your own African hair braiding business. 

The path to a 100k year depends on your rates and how many weekly clients you see. Let’s say you charge $200 for a set of box braids. That means you would need to take 11 braiding clients a week (for 49 weeks) to hit six figures a year.

This infographic shows how regular hairstylists can achieve a six-figure year:

As a business owner, you’ll set your rates and control your schedule. Clients are willing to spend hours in a salon chair and pay well for a perfect set of braids. So, know your worth and price yourself fairly!

How To Build A Six-Figure African Hair Braiding Business

African hair braiding is an old form that’s in high demand. Many skilled braiders have turned their passion into a profitable business. And you can too! 

Here’s how to get started.

#1 Complete an African Hair Braiding Course

Before you open up shop, make sure you have the right skills under your belt. 

A lot of iconic hair braiders are self-taught. You’ve probably practiced on yourself, friends or family members. Still, it’s good to have formal training, so you can give your clients the best service possible.

Not to mention, a few states require you to complete hours of training before you can receive your hair braider license.

Whether you’re self-taught or a total newbie, you can learn African hair braiding by taking a specialized course at a cosmetology school. Cosmetology school helps you master your craft and teaches you how to manage a hair business.

Expect to spend many long nights practicing on a mannequin and to pay anywhere from $3000 to $25000 in tuition.

#2 Get a Hair Braider License (if it’s required)

Most states require regular hairstylists to earn their cosmetology license before they can start a business. Thankfully, hair braiders have a bit of breathing room. In the US, 32 states exempt hair braiders from receiving a license.

Still, some states, like Pennsylvania, require you to complete 300 hours of training at a licensed cosmetology school, take an exam and pay a fee to earn your hair braider license.

And you might have to take additional courses every couple of years to renew your license. 

#3 Write a Business Plan

To bring your African hair braiding business into reality, you need to write it down. Consider your vision for the business, competition, and potential setbacks. 

You might start hair braiding as a side hustle, while you work or go to school full-time. This way, you get experience, a portfolio, and a client list before diving all into your business. 

The best thing about hair braiding businesses: low start-up costs. Clients usually buy their own hair for the appointment. So you really only need equipment and a comfortable place to work your magic. You may have to get a loan or look for investors if you want to open a hair studio. 

Commercial space is great for privacy and work/life balance. But don’t feel pressured to invest in a studio right away. It’s okay to start from your home or make house calls. It saves you time and money, and some clients prefer it. 

Or, consider renting a booth from a local salon. You can learn from other hairstylists and get exposure for your business. 

#4 Choose Your Braiding Services

If you’re just starting out, it’s okay to stick to basic braiding services. Hair braiders charge anywhere from $75 to $450 for a standard set of box braids. So, you’re sure to earn a lot. African hair braiding salons typically offer:

• Box braids
• Kinky twists
• Cornrows
• Dreadlocks
• Weaves
• Knotless Braids
• Crochet Styles

Try to stay on top of trending hairstyles, like goddess locs or micro braids, so you don’t lose out on business if a client makes a request. 

Many salons offer more than standard hair braiding services (and it pays off!) You can sell homemade or retail products to your clients. Or you coach aspiring stylists on starting their own businesses.

Also, you can teach African hair braiding courses to earn extra income.

#5 Get Insured

You’re almost ready to start taking clients. But first, you need to protect your African hair braiding business with insurance. You put a lot of time and money into your business. A salon insurance policy can help pay for damages, medical bills, repairs, and replacements if an accident happens to your clients, employees, or property. 

Salon insurance gives you peace of mind. Also, it may be required by your state, so check your local guidelines. If you have a commercial salon space or rent a booth, you’ll likely be required to get General Liability Insurance. And most states require businesses to get workers’ compensation insurance if they hire a certain number of employees.

#6 Market Your African Hair Braiding Business

With all your braids in a row, you can start promoting your African hair braiding business. A clever marketing strategy is key to attracting high-paying clients. 

The first step is to get online. Create a professional website where clients can easily find and book you. Or build dedicated social media pages for your business. (It’s better to have both.) Create a Facebook page, launch an Instagram, and list your business on Google.

Social media marketing gets your name out there, fast! You can post client photos to show off your skills or give hair maintenance tips. And once you have a decent following under your belt, you can earn extra income as a hair influencer. Brands will pay you to promote their products like shampoos, hair clips, or braiding hair. 

But social media marketing is just one piece of the puzzle. To maximize your income, you should use a mix of social, content, and email marketing strategies. 

And don’t forget about referrals! Referrals are the best way to land high-quality clients. You can get referrals from current clients or other pros in your industry, like makeup artists or nail techs. 

#7 Try Business Software 

Once you land clients, the trick is holding on to them. To get repeat bookings, you’ll need business software or a booking app that can handle the nitty-gritty of running your African hair braiding business. 

A good booking app allows you to: 

• Book clients and schedule appointments 
• Accept multiple payment types and receive quick payouts
• Send contracts, forms, and personalized communications to your clients
• Create bundles and subscriptions, or sell products, to earn more money 

Business software makes it easy to manage clients, so you can focus on your craft.

The Final Step

If you’re ready to take your hair braiding skills to the next level, you can start an African hair braiding business. It will take time to build a loyal client list and hit six figures per year, but it’s worth the wait! 

PocketSuite can help you along the way. PocketSuite is an all-in-one to manage your hair business. You get appointment scheduling, contracts, and payments all in one place.