How to Start Your Own Braiding Studio Salon

Co-authored by Shun Pittman

Last Updated: January 28, 2023

Hair braiding is an art form that takes training and practice. If you are experienced at braiding, you have an excellent opportunity to open a specialty salon that will allow you to reap a profit from your skills. You can start your own hair braiding salon by following these steps.

Steps

1
Decide if you are interested in running an in-home hair braiding business or if you want to open an actual brick-and-mortar salon.
- If you have decided to open a storefront salon, you will need to find salon space that you can lease or buy with plenty of parking. If you are a 1-person operation, consider renting booth space in an existing beauty salon that will attract business from patrons already in the salon.
- Regardless of whether you are leaning toward a home-based business or a storefront salon, check to be sure that local regulations allow for the use of relaxers or other chemically-based products that you will be using on the premises.
- You also need to check with your city and county government for zoning, as some residential neighborhoods might not allow commercial or any type of business.
2
Check with your local business regulation division to find out what insurance, permits and licenses are required to start your own hair braiding salon.
- If you are planning on selling hair care and styling products, ask if you are required to collect local sales tax and if you will need a retail or resale permit.
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3
Decide what types of braids you will offer and prepare a price list.
- Long hair and complicated braids are generally more expensive than short hair and simple patterns.
- Weaving additional hair into the braids is generally an additional charge.
4
Assemble a style book or portfolio showing the braid styles you're offering.
- Take photographs of clients whose hair you have braided. If you're not skilled at photography, consider hiring a professional photographer to help you.
- If you don't have any existing clients that are willing to be photographed for your style book, offer to braid the hair of your family and friends at no cost in exchange for the use of their photographs. If you still need more examples, consider hiring models.
5
Decide if you are going to offer other services in addition to hair braiding. Manicures, pedicures and acrylic nails are all popular choices to generate additional revenue.
- If you are going to offer additional services, decide if those providers will be employees or if you are going to rent booth space to them and allow them to operate as independent contractors. Remember, though, that just because a stylist is licensed does not make them a great employee or professional. Do your best to test and train your staff, as your business will depend on them.
6
Market your new hair braiding business.
- Enter and sponsor local hair styling contests.
- Contact local bridal show organizers and offer to braid their models' hair in exchange for a sign hung at the show.
- Hire someone to leave fliers on cars at local high schools and malls.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I make a portfolio of braids?

Community Answer

Take pictures of clients, friends or family whose hair you have braided (side view, back view). You might also want to take a picture of the hair before and after the transformation. You can also set up a website and display your pictures there.
Question

Do I need a license to open a braiding shop?

Community Answer

Yes, you need a license for opening any shop or stand in the United States.
Question

Do I need a license to open my own braiding studio salon?

Community Answer

It depends on what state you are in. You can look it up on Google or call the state Board of Registration.