Going independent as a hairstylist means you set your prices, your hours and your brand, and you keep what you earn. It also means you handle licensing, booking, payments and rent yourself. This checklist walks you through each step in order, from checking that your clientele is ready to your first week in a suite in Katy, TX.
Is your clientele ready?
Your clients are your income on day one, so start here.
- Count your regulars. Look at the last 3 months. How many clients booked at least twice?
- Work out your break-even. Weekly rent + weekly product and supply costs + weekly insurance and software = the amount you need to cover. Divide that by your average ticket. That’s how many services a week cover your costs.
- Compare. If your regulars already book more than your break-even each week, you’re in a strong position. If not, build your book for a few more months first, or start in a suite part-time.
- Ask what’s yours. Check your current agreement for non-compete or non-solicitation terms before you plan your move.
Licenses and permits
In Texas, you need a current individual license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) for the services you offer. A private suite may also need a Mini-Establishment License. Our guide What License Do I Need to Rent a Salon Suite in Texas? explains which applies to you.
Also plan for:
- Professional liability insurance (Glam Bar Studios requires proof before move-in)
- A Texas sales tax permit if you’ll sell retail products
- A DBA if you’ll work under a business name instead of your own
Set your prices
You’re now paying for everything the salon used to cover, so your prices need to reflect that.
- List your costs: rent, color and product, tools, insurance, booking software, card fees, and time off.
- Price each service: (cost of product for the service + your hourly target × hours) = your minimum price.
- Check the market. Look at what independent stylists near Katy, Cinco Ranch and Fulshear charge for similar work.
- Decide on policies now: deposits, cancellations, no-shows and late arrivals. Put them in writing.
Book and take payments
Pick one system for booking and payments before you announce your move.
- Look for: online booking, deposits, automatic reminders, card payments, client notes and simple reports.
- Test it by booking yourself before clients use it.
- Open a separate business bank account so your income and expenses are easy to track at tax time.
Tell your clients you’re moving
- Decide your timing first. Follow your current agreement, and give your salon the notice you’ve agreed to.
- Tell clients directly once you can: in person, by text or by DM. Include your new location, your start date and your booking link.
- Update everything at once: Instagram bio, Google profile, business cards and booking page.
- Make the first visit easy: confirm parking, directions and how to find your suite.
Pick your suite
For hair, check these before you sign:
- Shampoo bowl in the suite, so clients don’t walk through a hallway wet
- Room for a second chair if you plan to grow or share
- Storage for color, tools and retail
- Access hours that fit your schedule
- What’s included in rent, such as utilities, WiFi, laundry and parking
- Lease terms: weekly or monthly rent, deposit, and notice to leave
At Glam Bar Studios, 8 of our 9 suites have an in-suite shampoo bowl, each suite fits two styling chairs, and tenants get 24/7 keyless access, free laundry, WiFi and parking. See our hair salon suites in Katy.
Move-in week checklist
- ☐ Lease signed and keys or access set up
- ☐ Proof of insurance submitted
- ☐ TDLR license (and Mini-Establishment License, if needed) displayed
- ☐ Chair, tools, color and towels moved in
- ☐ Booking system live with your new address
- ☐ Card reader tested
- ☐ Door signage ordered
- ☐ Directions and parking sent to your first week of clients
- ☐ Before and after photos of your suite for social
Ready to see a suite? Schedule a tour or call or text 469-638-9248. Contracts can be signed the same day.
Frequently asked questions
How many clients do I need to go independent?
It depends on your costs and prices. Add up your weekly rent, supplies, insurance and software, then divide by your average service price. If your regular clients already book more than that each week, you’re likely ready.
Should I give notice before telling clients I’m leaving?
Follow your current agreement first. Check for notice periods and non-solicitation terms, give your salon the notice you agreed to, then tell clients directly with your new location and booking link.
What booking app should I use?
Choose one that handles online booking, deposits, reminders and card payments in one place. Test it by booking yourself before you share it with clients.