Not to be nosey, but very curious....

[GratefulTan]

First of all, I did post a link to a site, and I apologize for breaking the unwritten rule. Please accept my aplogies...

My question is that I would like to open a salon, but I want to ask the owners about how much overhead is needed, etc. I'm interested because I've been going to tanning salons for years, and there have been great ones, but there are also ones that I feel need improvement. I'd like to open my own because I feel that it would not only be a great business venture, but is also something I enjoy and would like to bank on that. I just need some tips on how to get started, and what obstacles I may face with advice from others that are doing it already. Thanks so much!

[StarryEyes]

Check out the post "I Want to Start a Salon!" It has a lot of helpful links that I think will answer some of your questions.

[TikiTan]

There is much you should do prior to making this leap. First RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH and oh yeah RESEARCH SOME MORE. Second attend a tanning convention talk to manufacturers, talk to everyone, take the training. Get a demographics on your site your interested in.. Is there a market for tanners there? Once you have made up your mind on which beds find out how they (the manufacturer) can help, do they offer assistance with your business plan, your lease negotiations? Etc, Etc..

Start up from scratch with new beds (a good mix of 10) and build out could run you anywhere from 100,000 and up...

And oh yeah make sure you have some reserves in the bank b/c what you seen in February, March, April, May (and maybe a few others) will not be what you see in November, December, etc...

[Tamar]

Aaaaaaannnnnnnnnd, don't forget to research some more. Not being sarcastic, but KNOW what you are getting into...

How much competition? What kind of beds do they have? Who will run your store (24/7 job, seems like)? I have played consultant for a couple of friends that have since opened salons and no matter how prepared you think you are, there will be something you may not have RESEARCHED quite enough...