How to Start a Beauty Supply Store

A beauty supply store is the perfect business venture for persons with a passion for hair, make-up and other beauty products. Like most businesses, a beauty supply shop requires time and money. Before launching the business, do your research and make sure you have all the necessary supplies.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Business license
• Business plan
• Small business loan
• Location
• Wholesale supplier

1. Take business courses. You don't need a college degree to open a beauty supply store but you need some business knowledge. Study business financial management, inventory control, budgeting and entrepreneurship.

2. Work in a beauty supply store. Before starting your own beauty shop, find employment with a local beauty supply store or other retail store. Learn the ins and outs of working in a retail setting, understand customer service and learn about your competition.

3. Find a location for the business. Situate beauty supply stores in a busy area. Choose a location that receives a lot of foot traffic, perhaps a strip mall.

4. Write a business plan and obtain a license. Since you'll likely need to apply for a small business loan, create a business plan. Write the plan yourself, or hire a professional. Visit your local City Hall and apply for a business license.

5. Get a small business loan. Every business requires start-up capital. If you don't have cash on-hand, apply for a loan. Check your credit score beforehand and make improvements to it if necessary.

6. Choose a supplier. You'll need to stock the beauty supply store with hair products, make-up and accessories. Research different beauty suppliers and pick the one that offers the products you want to carry at reasonable wholesale prices.

Tips & Warnings

• The cheapest wholesaler is not always the best. Customer service, reliability and good credit terms are more important.

Resources

• Small Business Administration: small business planner
• Annualcreditreport.com: free yearly credit reports