The spa industry reached record sales of $14 billion in 2013, and those numbers have continued to climb. Beauty treatments are big business. Now that the recession has receded and more people have disposable incomes, they are treating themselves with facials, massages, body wraps and other procedures designed for health and beauty. After the kind of stress we all went through over the last decade with war and recession, it’s no wonder that so many people are looking to unwind and treat themselves nice with a visit to the spa.
While you may not have the capital or the resources to start up your own spa, you can easily start your own mobile spa. In doing so, you will also tap into an emerging market. More and more people are looking to get at-home spa treatments since it saves them time and allows them to stay in the environment that is most comfortable to them.
Here’s what you need to do to start your own mobile, one-person spa:
Get the Right Training
You will need to have credentials in order to convince people to invite you into their home for services, and the right training is the most important credential to have. To perform facials and other skin services such as microdermabrasion, you’ll need to complete an aesthetician certificate or degree program. You’ll also learn how to perform services such as body waxing, manicures, and pedicures.
You should also consider getting a certificate or diploma in massage therapy. Offering multiple services will improve your business profile and increase the cost of each transaction. Massage therapists need training in several types of massage, including deep tissue massage, sports massage, and reflexology (for the feet).
Check into your state’s licensing requirements, as well. You may have to take an exam to become licensed for these services in your state.
Stock the Right Equipment
When you show up in clients’ homes for services, you need to be prepared with the right professional gear. For beauty services, you’ll need to carry a lot of skin care products, as well as wax kits. However, you’ll also need to look into portable skin care machines, such as microdermabrasion machines and lasers for peels.
You’ll also need a good portable table for both beauty treatments and massages. Keep a look out for portable massage tables for sale that utilize face cradle technology. You can also opt for a portable massage chair with ergonomic, adjustable heights.
Market Your Business
As a mobile operation, your business will rely on the strength of your marketing even more than a traditional, brick-and-mortar establishment. Online marketing will be key to getting the word out about your business and helping you connect with potential clients.
Since your business is non-traditional, you’ll also want to think outside the box for connecting with clients. Decorate your van or other business vehicle with some creative signage or bright colors. Add a big sign to your vehicle that will get attention and clearly direct clients to your website. Go to festivals and community events to offer your services. Reach out to colleges to offer services during finals. Form connections with local businesses to offer services during special events, at the end of a big project, or during bonus time.
With the right marketing and the right setup, your mobile spa business can be a great success. You’ll be able to own the business of your dreams without as much startup capital as a traditional business.