This is my midlife crisis! At 41 I went back to school and here I am. I am going to be graduating from a clinical skin care program in June. I have the opportunity to rent a room in a massage and skin clinic at a very reasonable price.  The area is in an office park with doctor's offices nearby, but the location is definitely a destination versus a drive by.  We have been working on advanced histology and advanced chemical peel methods and dermawave among other things.  What do you all recommend? Work someplace first or try to venture on my own?? I am also certified in lash to lash eyelash extensions.  I do have the support of friends and family whatever I do, but I don't have to pull an income in right away, although it would be nice.  Input please!! I also have a degree in nutrition to add to my services.

Views: 209

Replies to This Discussion

In this economy it can be a struggle ! I would definately recommend starting with an established buisness to build your clientele and then go out on your own

Hi Jennifer!
I just graduated in December, got my license a couple weeks ago, and I am venturing to start my own home-based treatment room/business.
So far its daunting work to get everything ready, every time I think I have all I need, I turn around to discover there is still more to do!!
I am hoping to find "a day job" in the field to keep me busy and afloat while I build my business. 

Sounds like you have a great place to start from, the nutritional degree is a huge plus! And I've heard great success stories from people trained in any of the lash extensions.

I am a newbie too, so I don't have any advice other than, follow your heart.
If you feel like you want to put in the extra work to start from scratch then go for it! The thrills and excitement for a new path are never ending.


It seems most of the gals I went to school with are starting elsewhere, and getting their feet wet so to speak. 

I wish you the best of luck no matter what you do!

I think you should separate the big question of "be independent or take a job somewhere", from the lesser question of whether or not to rent this particular room. Location is EVERYTHING unless you are well enough established that you know clients will drive out of their way to get to you. If it turns out there is a good reason for this room rent being cheap, it would be an unnecessary obstacle when you're just starting out.

Forget about the room, figure out the big question first, and then if you decide independent is the way to go, look around for a good location (which might be this room or might be something different).

the owner's husband is a long time patient of my husband.  She is giving me a deal.  It is on the border of clearwater and belleair in Florida, Belleair is a very upscale area.  Clearwater has a wide array.  I have to weigh the options...

What is your goal? Network with doctors? What kind of doctors? Are they in the business of aesthetics, dermatology, plastic /cosmetic surgery? Are you going the medical route? Anyone working in a compatible field? If not, then that's not the right place to open your business, especially if it's a drive. Do your homework. Visit them and see what the traffic of clients is.  If it's a skin clinic, are they renting to others? How will they be competing with you? Are you going to share/refer clients to each other? What else are they offering you? Access to lobby? Sharing receptionist? How many people work/rent there? How many bathrooms? Do they operate strict hours (based on office park leasing contract) or can you work your own hours and come and go as you please? Will you need to pay additional for phone service, maintenance? Are you sub-leasing? If so, is it legal under their own contract? You may be affected if they're renting under the table. if going solo, do you have a budget for marketing? That's where a large portion of your overhead expense will go to. Who will be doing your bookkeeping, social media, etc?  Just a few things to consider...

It would be smart to start where there is traffic and the others can recommend you for treatments... I wish you much luck and success...
One more thing......I have always found that when I am quiet and calm... and really listen to what it is that I need/want to do.. and it always all works out.. don't panic... what does your gut say.. if you are doing what you love... the money will come...

I just opened a small studio back in feb. and it is kinda tucked away with not much traffic. just the few business that are in the same building. And there is no way i would be making it if i didnt already have loyal clients. since there are no drive by business i have to spend money & energy to really promote my business and myself.

Thank you for all your words of wisdom!  I am going to take it all into consideration!

RSS

© 2024   Created by ASCP.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service