Editor’s Comment

Launching your own salon, spa or mobile business is undoubtedly one of the most exciting moments in any beauty pro’s career. But it is usually also the most terrifying.

Have you factored every cost into your budget? Who’s going to help if your therapists call in sick? Will you ever get to have a day off again? Starting a business means facing daily challenges and most of us get it wrong several times before we find the solution that works for us. Fast forward a few years and things may have calmed down but you’re still encountering new challenges all the time. Can I put my prices up now my costs have increased? Where can I find great staff now I’m ready to expand?

This month we share some advice from a salon owner who launched her business aged 24 and went on to receive an MBE for services to the nail and beauty industry. Find out what’s next for Sharmadean Reid of Wah Nails on page 59.

We also unveil a hot list of top spas and salons from across the UK that are worth taking a look at for business inspiration. Check out the shortlist for the 2017 PB Regional Awards on page 26.

While every beauty business is unique, the hurdles they face are often the same. That’s why this month Professional Beauty is launching the Support Our Salons (SOS) campaign.

As well as striving to give you the tools you need to tackle these challenges head on – via the business advice we provide in print and online, as well as the conferences and workshops lined up at the upcoming Professional Beauty North show in Manchester (see page 66) – #PBSOS is inviting you to share your experiences in order to support other businesses and ultimately, the industry as a whole.

Keep an eye on professionalbeauty.co.uk/SOS this month for more info on how to get involved and win some fantastic prizes. We’ll also cover the best advice and the most inspirational pros in the magazine this autumn, so sharing your tips can also help raise your profile.

Editor | @eveoxberry