Info about starting a solo spa in Tampa Bay?

Hi everybody!

I was hoping that someone could share their experiences opening a spa in St. Pete.  What are the steps as far as licensing, inspections, city hall, etc.  Requirements to pass inspection?  Advertising?  I am in the process of researching and there is no better resource than people who have already gone through the experience!  Thank you for any help and enlightenment you can give! I've never had a business before and am completely clueless as to the correct order to do things.  

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Monica Grajales on January 10, 2014 at 8:23pm

aww, you're welcome!! Any time. It's scary in the beginning. But it seems like you have the support of a loved one, and that's the most important thing. Let me know when you open. Would love to visit. :-)

Permalink Reply by Bunny Crockett on March 6, 2014 at 6:16pm

UPDATE:  I DID IT!  After I talked with you guys here I signed a one year lease and I have been open officially for about two weeks.  We had to do a little bit of a buildout to build a small lobby, then we found out I had some leaks behind the bathroom wall and had to tear out the whole bathroom to get that fixed.  Anyway, everything is in place.  I can only work by appointment only in the evenings and weekends so I don't have them lining up at the door.  I am concentrating on social promotion, referrals from the nail and hair place beside me, and word of mouth at work. I've had a few appointments from friends and given two gift certificates away for charity things. I also have my massage license so I'm hoping between the two licenses I will eventually be busy.

Permalink Reply by Monica Grajales on March 6, 2014 at 6:38pm

I am SO excited for you!!! Congratulations!!!!

Feel free to ask for any help or advice. My email address is belladermis@gmail.com

Send me your address. I'd love to visit your place and introduce myself.

Promote yourself as "the spa that opens when you need it most - after work" or something like that :-)

I have a pretty decent clientele who comes in ONLY after working hours as late as 8pm. There is clientele out there for you. Remember to open profiles on ALL social media even if you don't use it. The idea is to increase SEO. Use Linkedin.com to make meaningful connections. Don't give too much to charity. it goes unused, used at the last minute and never come back or goes completely unappreciated. So watch those donations. I would donate to realtor associations, title companies, places that move money. And only for $25 max. Charities don't work. Groupon is good initial cash flow, but just to get people in the door, increase your SEO and get some cash flow. But don't do it twice. :-) You can have a fish bowl type of drawing with the salon next door. Have their clients put their business cards in it and once a week announce a winner. I would also give some incentives to the neighbors when they refer you clients. Anyway, you got my contact info. Best of luck!

Permalink Reply by Bunny Crockett on March 8, 2014 at 4:30pm

Thanks, Monica,I sent you an email to belladermis@gmail.com.

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