Opening your own salon suite is more than a career move—it’s a bold step toward independence, creativity, and financial freedom. Whether you’re a stylist, esthetician, barber, or nail tech dreaming of running your own space, this guide will walk you through the essentials. From licenses to branding, we’ve created the ultimate opening a salon suite checklist to help you launch with confidence and clarity.
At Phenix Salon Suites, we believe in empowering beauty entrepreneurs with turnkey spaces, flexible terms, and unmatched support—so you can focus on doing what you love.
Let’s get into the specifics.
Why Consider Opening a Salon Suite?
Choosing a salon suite model offers advantages that go beyond chair rental or traditional salon jobs:
- Flexibility to set your hours and choose your services
- Increased earning potential without commission splits
- Creative freedom to design your space and build your brand
- Autonomy to grow your business your way
Phenix Salon Suites makes this transition smoother with private, fully furnished suites, no long-term agreements, and a thriving community of independent professionals.
Explore salon suite opportunities that align with your goals and style.
Opening a Salon Suite Checklist
Ready to take the step into salon ownership? Use this comprehensive checklist to stay on track as you launch your salon suite.
1. Ensure Proper Licensing & Certifications
- State cosmetology, esthetician, barber, or nail technician license
- Specialty certifications (e.g., lash tech, microblading)
- Health & safety or sanitation training (as required by your state board)
2. Set Up Your Business Structure (check with your local municipality on requirements)
- Choose a legal entity (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)
- Register for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- Get liability and property insurance. Phenix Salon Suites provides Professional Liability Insurance for select professionals – get in touch with questions!
- Set up a business bank account and bookkeeping system
3. Create a Financial Plan
- Budget for start-up costs (products, branding, marketing)
- Estimate ongoing monthly expenses (suite fee, supplies, insurance)
- Set service pricing and revenue goals
- Choose a POS or appointment system for operations. Phenix Salon Suites provides access to Gina’s Platform for free!
4. Find the Right Location
- Look for visibility, parking, accessibility, and neighborhood fit
- Choose a provider that offers support, convenience, and professionalism
Phenix offers beautifully finished salon suites in top-tier locations—with included Wi-Fi, utilities, and amenities—making it easier to focus on growing your business. See available top salon suites nationwide.
5. Stock Up on Supplies & Equipment
To deliver top-notch service, you’ll need to outfit your space with the right tools. Here’s a complete list of what to prepare:
Core Tools & Equipment
- Shears, clippers, trimmers
- Brushes, combs, blow dryers, flat irons
- Hot tools for styling or treatments
- Nail and skincare tools (if applicable)
Furniture & DECOR
Phenix Salon Suites provides you with a move-in ready suite that includes a wash bowl, styling chair, rolling styling cart, dryer, shampoo chair and cabinet for hair suites – and a spa sink and cabinet for spa suites.
Other items you’ll want to consider are:
- Mirror
- Lighting
- Decor
Sanitation & Safety
- Barbicide and disinfectants
- PPE (masks, gloves)
- Clean/dirty towel containers
- Sanitary station setup per local regulations
Products & Consumables
- Haircare and styling products
- Chemical service supplies (color, lightener, etc.)
- Skincare products, waxing kits, nail polishes (as applicable)
- Towels, capes, applicators, foils
Technology & Branding
- Scheduling and payment software
- Music or ambiance systems
- Marketing materials (business cards, signage, menus)
Phenix Salon Suites offers access to marketing resources, including free webinars on how to set pricing, market your brand, and build your business.
What Do You Need to Start a Hair Salon or Suite?
If you’re asking “what do you need to start a hair salon,” the essentials include:
- State License – You must be a licensed cosmetologist, esthetician, barber, or nail tech.
- Business Setup – Legal structure, EIN, insurance, and financial planning.
- Salon Space – A clean, professional, well-equipped environment that fits your brand.
- Tools & Supplies – All service-related equipment and consumables.
- Marketing Strategy – Website or booking link, social media presence, and referral system.
- Ownership Mindset – Confidence, accountability, and the desire to grow.
Phenix provides the environment and support that makes all of this achievable—so you can focus on success, not logistics.
Learn more about what it’s like to be owning your beauty business in a space designed for you.
Common Questions About Opening a Salon Suite
How do I start my own hair salon suite?
- Check your license status and make sure you meet all state board requirements.
- Form your business entity (e.g., LLC) and apply for an EIN and insurance as required by local municipality.
- Tour available salon suites and choose a provider like Phenix that aligns with your vision.
- Purchase supplies and personalize your space.
- Promote your opening through social media, referrals, and introductory offers.
- Launch! Start serving clients, building your brand, and growing your income.
What costs should I expect upfront?
- Initial suite deposit or first payment
- Business registration fees and insurance
- Equipment, tools, and supply inventory
- Branding materials (logo, signage, menus)
- Marketing spend to promote your launch
Thanks to Phenix’s fully equipped suites and included amenities, many beauty professionals save significantly on startup costs.
How long does it take to get started?
If you already have your license and business paperwork, you could be up and running in a matter of days. Phenix offers quick onboarding, no long-term agreements, and spaces that are ready for you to move in and make your own.
Why Choose Phenix Salon Suites for Your Salon Journey?
Thousands of independent beauty professionals have trusted Phenix to help bring their business dreams to life. From flexible salon rental space options to unmatched support, here’s what makes Phenix stand out:
- Private, professionally equipped salon suites
- No long-term lease commitments
- Inclusive amenities (Wi-Fi, utilities, laundry access)
- 24/7 access to your space
- Supportive community of like-minded entrepreneurs
Ready to take the next step? Discover how Phenix Salon Suites can help you create the salon of your dreams. Open a Beauty Salon Suite today and start your journey with support, style, and freedom. Call or text for more info 937-312-4286


