How to Start a Tanning Salon Business

Owning your own tanning salon business can be a dream come true, but it can be full of headaches and even heartache. Know what you are getting into before starting a tanning salon business, and you have a better chance at success. Use the following steps to help you achieve your goal of starting a tanning salon.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Visit many local tanning salons and take note of how they operate. Write down things you like or dislike about the business. See what kind of competition you will be up against.
2. Write a business plan. Every small business starts with a good business plan. Include where you would like to be located, how many beds you need and what other services, if any, you want to offer.
3. Talk to banks and other lenders about financing your tanning salon business. Bring your business plan with you so they can look over it.
4. Find a location that is busy and easy to access. Customers don't want to travel out of town or hunt for your location. A busy location, like in a shopping center, will bring more walk-in customers.
5. Buy equipment for your tanning salon. Beds, bulbs, lotions, towels, eye glasses, chairs, computers and other equipment must be in place before opening the salon.
6. Get insurance on your tanning salon business. Your bank may not loan you money unless you can prove you have insurance or have looked into it.
7. Advertise your tanning salon business before you open the doors. Place your phone number and ad in the yellow pages, advertise on flyers, billboards and local radio stations.