How to get your beauty business off the ground

So, you want to start a beauty business. Whether your vision is to specialise in a certain service, such as hair, makeup or nails, or offer a bit of everything, you’ll need to follow a series of steps to get your business off the ground. In this article we cover the things you’ll need to do to turn your idea into a reality, and open a beauty business that truly shines.

How to start a beauty business

Professional training

First things first, you’ll need to get qualified. Even if you’re self-taught in the area/s you want to offer, it’s important to back yourself up with some credentials to establish yourself as a serious business. Having qualifications not only looks professional, but will give customers confidence they need to book an appointment with you. There are loads of places you can gain beauty qualifications from, so do your research to find one that works for you.

Laying the foundations

A successful business starts with a solid plan. So, head to the drawing board and create a one that lays out how you want your business to look and feel and what sets it apart from those already out there (this article will help). A business plan will not only help you create something truly unique, but it will also help you maintain consistency when building your brand and guide your business decisions going forward.

As part of the planning process, you’ll need to work out how you want to operate – from home, a store, or a mobile service – and what your business structure is going to be – sole trader, partnership, company, or trust. The Australian Taxation Office website has a great resource on how to choose the best business structure for your business, to help you work out which one is best for you.

Making it official

Once you’re clear on what your business is and how it’s going to operate, you can register for the necessary identification and documentation. This includes:

• Australian Business Number (ABN): This is a unique 11-digit code that identifies your business and allows you to claim Goods and Services Tax (GST) credits, energy grants credits, obtain a domain name, and avoid pay as you go (PAYG) tax.
• Tax File Number (TFN): If you’re operating under a partnership or company, you’ll need to get a business TFN. If you’re a sole trader, a personal TFN will do.
• GST: You’ll need to apply for GST if you expect your new business to generate an annual turnover of $75,000 or more in the first year of operation; within 21 days of your business reaching this threshold; or if you’re already in business and have reached the GST threshold. You’ll also need to apply for GST if you want to claim fuel tax credits for your business.
• Business name: Whatever type of beauty business you open, you’ll need a name to make it known. To land on one you love, start by googling names for beauty businesses to get your creative juices flowing. Then create a list of your own beauty business name ideas and narrow them down until you’ve found the perfect one. (You don’t have to register for a business name if you register a company and use the company name as your business name.)

Legalities

While not the most riveting task, you’ll need to make sure that you’re meeting all your state’s legal requirements. Here are some key requirements you’ll need to sort out before you serve your first customer:

Licenses and permits

Regardless if you work from home or a shopfront, offering services like facials, eyelash extensions, and body waxing may call for certain licences and permits. These can differ depending on where you live, so be sure to visit your local council website to work out which ones you’ll need.

Safety standards

Operating to the highest standard of cleanliness and hygiene is a top priority. Make sure you have all the machinery, cleaning tools, and hygiene equipment you need to meet the industry standard of your state.

Setting up shop

The final step in starting a beauty business is setting it up so you’re ready to make your first sale. Here’s some things to keep in mind:

Equipment

The tools and furniture you’ll need for your beauty business will be determined by the services you offer and the size of your set-up. Make sure to pick high-quality pieces that tie into your brand to make an aesthetic, welcoming, and professional space that your clients won’t forget.

Hiring staff

If you’re hiring staff, make sure you think about the people that will be a good representation of your brand and ask the right questions during the recruitment process so you can find them. Once you’ve assembled your team, you’ll need to make sure you’re meeting the Fair Work Requirements so you’re giving them what they need.

Payment system

Last but not least, you’ll need a way for customers to pay for your services (and products, if you’ve got some to sell). Tyro EFTPOS accepts all kinds of payments including credit, debit, and mobile wallets, so every customer can pay the way they want to. Learn more here.

Ready to launch your beauty business with Tyro? Get in touch.