How Lori Gibbs build her own salon business from scratch

Lori Gibbs became a freelancer after a long period of working for someone else. Now she’s happy and she thinks that she took a wise decision by having the courage to work on her own…and all of this happened just for not giving up on her clients that were already part of her daily life!

Lori shared the story of her business with us. Enjoy! 🙂

1. Who or what inspired you to become a hairstylist and how did you end up starting your business?

I became my own boss after the salon I worked at for 18 years was sold and without any notice. I didn’t want to lose my clients that I had known for 18 years, so I quickly sourced a chair to rent and took a chance to become my own boss. This has been the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.

2. What were the challenges you’ve faced in growing your business and how did you overcome them?

As for growing my business, I only used a book to track my clients and bookings. I often found myself out and about without having my book with me. I’d have to let clients know when they would text me that they would have to wait till I was home before I could book their appointment. Now that I use Goldie I can book my clients at any time and any location.

3. How do you differentiate yourself in the market?

I keep client retention by sending the instant booking notification and I have 100% of client show-ups with the reminders. Clients love the reminders. They are all so busy that if they didn’t get them they might have forgotten their appointment.

4. What part of your business are you improving? (branding, clientele, technique, etc.)

I am trying to improve better booking availability, meaning knowing how much time I practically have with each client without wasting time, or not giving myself enough time.

5. What advice do you have for any new or upcoming hairstylists?

I would say to upcoming hairstylists that taking chances is the most rewarding part. You never know until you try. Being safe all the time can lead to boredom and a lack of innovation. Trying new things is always exciting to me, and the hair industry is always changing, so something is interesting around every corner.

6. How is Goldie helping you?

Goldie has helped me keep track of all my client’s past appointments, future, and what their spending is like. I have a more in-depth analysis using this app. I would seriously be lost if I didn’t have Goldie. It was the best app that I’ve purchased.

“Courage is the most important of all the virtues because, without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.”

Thank you, Lori, for teaching us how important is to trust yourself, and thank you for being our customer! 🙂