How to Start a Wig and Weave Business
Wigs and weaves are big business in the haircare industry. Women of all ages and ethnic backgrounds are going to their local beauty supply store, braiding technician, or favorite website to purchase hair. Many are choosing protective hairstyles to keep their hair safe from harsh chemical treatments while other women use them to deal with medical situations that cause hair loss or hair issues, such as chemotherapy or alopecia.
If starting your own wig and weave business is something you’re interested in doing, we can help you get started with the support you need.
Like with any business you start, it’s important to start with a business plan. Unless you are applying for grants or loans, it doesn’t have to be fancy, but you should include your expectations, your expenses to operate the business, which services you want to offer, what you plan to charge for your service and products, etc.
Here are some of the things you need to do to start a successful wig and weave business:
Learn everything you can about the business. Learn about the different types of hair and what texture suits what race. Your customers can be from all walks of life and they will ask a lot of questions, so you need to know what you’re talking about so you sound like an expert.
Find a good, trustworthy wholesale hair supplier. Do your research! There are many companies offering hair and supplies. It’s important to sample different suppliers to see what you are most comfortable selling, which may cost a lot of money. Do your own “quality” test. If it passes, then sell it. You don’t want to be selling hair that you didn’t know wasn’t good because you didn’t test it.
Market your business. Let your friends and family know about your business and ask them to help you promote it. Use your social media accounts, such as Instagram and Facebook. If you have the skills, create a website to market your business.
Get the necessary permits. You may need licenses or permits from your city or state to operate a lash business, and almost all types of businesses are required to have Federal employer identification number (EIN), also called a tax identification number. Note: your business may also need to acquire a similar tax identification number from your state's department of revenue or taxation. Exactly what permits or licensing you need depends on where your business will be located.
Establish a professional image. Giving your business a professional name and email address will let potential customers know that you’re serious and that you offer quality services.
Create a professional space. If you decide to run your wig and weave business from home, make sure it’s a comfortable space that looks professional. Remember people want to be pampered, so you should design a space to provide that.
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