How 3 Salons adapted in 2020
“Don’t Fear Change...Embrace It” - Anthony J Dangelo
We understand that along with all the excitement of being back with your clients also came a lot more regulations and social responsibilities that are causing a change in hours, productivity, and a “ new uniform” if you will.
We want you to know we are going to be with you every step of the way. Change is good, Change is important, and we will evolve.
Check out below some salons that have incorporated exceptional new systems, and how they have adjusted:
Jason Cadwell: Columbus, OH
Jason started our conversation by saying: “March 18th happened and it was the biggest slap awake. I knew a lot about doing hair and a lot about educating others and nothing about business” he realized his salon, while successful, was more of a labor of love. Jason used this shut down to immerse himself in education and spend time in conversation with his mentor, Candy Shaw. Using free resources from ManocoBlue and the Small Business Bureau he opened his doors even stronger than he was before.
To be post-quarantine ready the biggest changes had to do with the space itself, like removing sitting areas and clearing out extra decor. Jason laughed as he said “I had to come to terms with the fact that sanitation in a small environment can only look so pretty”. Next came setting boundaries with guests. “It has 100% been about communication, keeping realistic expectations about what the salons look like FOR NOW” he went on to explain that he lets his guests know that not every change is forever, but he is taking steps now to insure everyone is safe. One way he sets these boundaries is by using visual cues and trendy signage, this helps set the tone. He also sent emails to each guest right after their appointment was booked to explain the new guidelines.
212 Salon, Spa and Barbershop: West Lafayette, IN
Martha, owner of 212 Salon, took a unique approach to opening day: The first two days were for healthcare workers, family and friends …. and it was all complementary! Martha knew her staff may feel overwhelmed hoping back in at 100%, So they took about a day and a half to offer complementary services and then had an afternoon team meeting to insure they were ready to service guests. Martha said this was the best decision she has made, even though it may have been unorthodox.
Throughout the shutdown Martha worked closely with her team, having weekly virtual team meetings and joining calls such as the Robert Crommens call with ManocoBlue. One very helpful activity her team took part in was to have each stylist write down 10 things they could talk about with guests that had nothing to do with COVID-19, politics, sickness etc. This would be a great activity for any salon! It was very important to her team that they had a positive environment and Martha is proud to say that she feels like her team is stronger than ever!
When asked about her favorite change Martha laughed and said “Having my door locked”. She went on to explain that with the age of social media they can still have a ‘walk-in culture’ by having new guests call in frequently without the constant interruption of the door opening throughout the day. She also feels like the guests love the personal touch of their stylists coming to the door to greet them, and catching a breath of fresh air between guests is also a bonus. Who knows? Maybe greeting guests this way will stick around!
Vivio Beauty Bar: Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Samantha, owner of Vivio Beauty Bar, wanted to be sure she used this time to elevate her salon and her staff. It paid off because they are seeing more new guests than ever before! Samantha explains: “I think we grew closer over the shutdown, I really tried to utilize the time. We had a facebook group to connect as a team. We had zoom calls and training. We also worked together to really tune in our brand.” Her team also took the time to re-introduce themselves on social media. They posted tutorial videos, positive messages and past work. In turn, they have had new guests coming in letting them know they saw them on social media and couldn't wait to try them out!
Making sure that new procedures were well communicated was a top priority for Samantha. She said they used a social media post and email blast to all customers first. Then, they included the procedures in confirmation emails and appointment reminders. This communication has helped ensure they have had no pushback or confusion from guests.
Overall, Samantha says the most positive thing to come out of this experience was “The time to pause and reflect”. Being about to really stop and think ‘am I doing what I truly love’. For her and her team the answer was yes. We hope it is for you too!