DIARY NOTES OF A NEWBIE SALON OWNER
We talk to Freelance extension expert Tracy Roche about buying and running her first salon.
Freelance extension expert Tracy Roche was not actively looking for a salon, when she heard that Kingsgrove Hair & Beauty was available, she reached out to a long-term friend and beautician to bring their dream they had years before to reality.
What attracted you to buying this salon?
After being self-employed for over 13 years and feeling a growing dissatisfaction with the limited potential for growth as I aged. I was struggling to accommodate clients and had no contingency plan for sickness. The salon’s location is conveniently close to my home and in an area that had become more upscale in recent years, was also a major attraction. I also managed to negotiate the purchase at an excellent price; it was an opportunity I could not miss.
Tell us about the salon?
The salon has twelve styling stations, four backwashes and a beauty room. The purchase included all the furniture and styling tools, just not the retail stock or in-salon wet products. We took the entire self-employed team, including the previous owner, it was wonderful that they wanted to stay on and have been great to work with through the transition.
How long did the buying process take?
On recollection I believe it was the end of April that I found out the salon was available for sale. The owner agreed to the sale at the end of May. The initial paperwork was back and forth a few times refining everything. I moved to work in the salon from mid June 2025 ready for the official handover and transfer of money on 1 July 2025.
What did you tackle first?
For my business partner Amber to work from this site we had to address the beauty rooms which consisted of two cramped, misshaped rooms that were not suitable for use. We combined these into one larger space.
We sourced our retail products from a new company that exclusively supports salons and does not sell online and updated the retail displays. Installing TV screens on the walls has helped share information about the exclusive brands we work with.
Additionally, we implemented a new computer booking system and invested in upgrading the hardware too. We are slowly working our way through the salon space updating areas such as installing new Sonos speakers, updating the luxurious backwash chairs with a fresh upholstery and updating equipment and tools throughout. The decorator is booked to freshen everything up.
What’s been the biggest learning curve?
This has to be just how much extra time is required for paperwork, managing social media, updating the website, and ensuring everything is kept current. Another significant lesson has been the importance of delegation within the team. With the addition of a few new employees, I’ve had to accept that I can’t do everything myself and need to delegate tasks according to each team member’s strengths.
What’s worked well for you?
Switching to Eleven products has been a fantastic move. They sell incredibly well with minimal effort, as both our employed and self-employed team members genuinely like them. Additionally, we’ve seen a significant increase in hair extension enquiries since I took over the salon, prompting our newest employee to undergo training in various techniques to meet the demand. Our colour company has also been supportive, providing free education now that our team has grown. I hope this trend continues.
It has a prestigious location in Harrogate… How would you describe your salon?
I would describe the salon as high-end, but with an incredibly welcoming team. I like to think that every client feels special from the moment they arrive until they leave. We strive to make everyone feel appreciated and valued. I am fortunate to have a loyal clientele, and the self-employed stylists have been with the salon for years, retaining their dedicated clients. Situated in the suburbs of Harrogate, we benefit from the bustling area, with new bars, cafes, restaurants, and plenty of housing nearby, which provides free parking and attracts passing trade.
What are your plans for 2026?
Our aim is to continue growing as a cohesive team, regardless of employment status. We have recently brought on board an experienced stylist with a loyal clientele, having been self-employed for over 12 years. Currently, I am focused on planning the educational calendar for the year, as well as organizing training for our apprentice.
Looking ahead, I hope to expand our team further, both with employed and self-employed members, and reestablish the salon as a bustling, successful business. I am particularly excited about growing our extension side of the business and relishing the camaraderie of being part of a team again, including participating in awards.
What’s your advice for someone looking to buy a salon?
I highly recommend considering existing salons that are up for sale. This can save you a significant amount of money on refurbishment costs and, with an existing team in place, you can start earning money immediately. When we took over our salon, we weren’t sure if the existing staff would stay, but thankfully, they all did.
It’s crucial to seek proper business advice, find a great accountant, and familiarize yourself with all the essentials of running a business. Hiring employees can provide better control over the direction of the business. While self-employed team members are great, there’s a limit to the earnings potential you can generate from them.
Additionally, it’s important to find a booking system that doesn’t constantly charge extra fees, so you have a cap on that expense. Remember to make a list of all the ancillary costs associated with running a business.
Follow Tracy for her journey as a new salon owner on socials @tracyrochehair and @kingsgrove_hair_and_beauty.
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