Starting a mobile beauty business allows you to offer salon services like hair, makeup, nails, facials, and more in clients’ homes or at their events. With low overheads and the flexibility to set your own schedule, going mobile can be an attractive option for beauty professionals. Follow these steps to launch your own successful mobile beauty business:
Get Licensed and Certified
The first step is making sure you check what you need to do to provide mobile beauty services legally. Requirements vary somewhat by location, but commonly you’ll need:
- NVQ Level 2 or 3 Beauty Therapy Diploma to provide hair, makeup, skin, nail, and other beauty services. This involves completing an accredited training course.
- £1 million or more in public liability insurance to protect yourself in case of lawsuits or property damage. Shop around to find an affordable policy.
- Local council registration with your town, city, or district council. This ensures your mobile workspace meets health, safety, and hygiene standards.
- Mobile treatment licence if you plan to visit clients’ homes. Apply through your local council.
- Self-employed tax registration with HMRC to properly pay income tax and National Insurance as a self-employed worker.
Once you are properly accredited and insured, you can begin operating your mobile beauty business fully legitimately.
Purchase a Used Van
One of the biggest startup costs is buying a van to operate your mobile salon out of. Purchasing used can save substantially compared to buying new. Look for a van no more than 5 years old to ensure it’s in good shape. Expect to pay £5,000-£15,000 for a used van or minivan suited for mobile beauty services. Simply search in your local area, such as vans for sale in Essex or wherever you are based.
Customise the interior to be functional, with all the storage space you need for your equipment.
Create a Business Plan
Every new business needs a plan. Outline your company’s objectives, services, pricing, target clients, startup costs, projected revenue, marketing strategy, and future goals in a comprehensive business plan. This will serve as your roadmap as you launch and grow your mobile beauty venture.
A key part of your plan should detail your services and prices. Consider focusing on hair, makeup, manicures, facials, waxing, or other niche services based on your specialties. Analyse competitors’ pricing to determine rates that are competitive but profitable in your area.
Get the Word Out
Marketing and advertising are essential for gaining visibility and attracting clients. Here are some effective strategies for promoting a new mobile beauty business:
- Create a website and social media profiles showcasing your services, photos, reviews, contact info, and booking platform.
- Design professional logos, business cards, brochures, and print ads.
- Offer promotions like discounts on first-time bookings.
- Network with local wedding planners, photographers, hotels, and event spaces to offer your services for their brides and clients.
- Partner with related businesses to cross-promote.
- Ask satisfied clients to spread the word and leave online reviews.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to running a streamlined, professional mobile beauty business. Stay focused on providing excellent service, and your clientele and earnings are sure to grow.
