I am a mother of two pursuing my dream of opening a nail salon, but now I feel as if I have hit a brick wall. I have my manicurist license and plan to take more classes to receive my esthetician license. Not knowing my next step, I am wondering if I should be speaking with a financial adviser, getting a business license or just finishing school first?
-M. G., Via the Internet
There’s no need to be discouraged. Continue to work hard to obtain the necessary schooling and experience.
Money is definitely available to minorities looking to start businesses. So, make sure your lengthy to-do list includes registering the business as a minority and women business enterprise, which will afford you the opportunity to apply for funds set aside for these entrepreneurs. Also, the IRS (www.irs.gov) provides a general checklist for those starting a business as well as resources for small-business owners and the self-employed.
Contact trade associations and related organizations such as the International Nail Technicians Association (INTA), the Nail Manufacturers Council (www.pro beauty.org), the American Association for Esthetics Education (AAEE); and the National Cosmetology Association (www.ncacares.org). Visit the America’s Beauty Show Website at www.americas beautyshow.com.
Read Start Your Own Day Spa and More (Entrepreneur Press; $17.95) andMilady’s Standard: Nail Technology (Milady Publishing; $78.95). Good luck!