Before you even start reading this article, here is a 60 second video of a typical client I had that pulls stunts that force beauty & barber professionals to charge deposits.
Over the past decade hairstylists, makeup artists, aestheticians, nail techs, barbers & braiders have been charging deposits for services. This has outraged many patrons because years ago this "deposit fee" was unheard of. I speak in depth on a podcast episode here (Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/Dmstales1Â | Apple Podcasts : https://tinyurl.com/Dmstales2Â )
In my experience as a licensed cosmetologist, years ago it was unheard of to have countless clients not showing up without calling first. There was an influx of countless no-shows in the cosmetology industry within the past 10 years.
Before you get your panties in a bunch ask yourself these questions:
Do you pay in advance for Amazon orders?
Does your card get funds held when reserving a hotel?
When you get a car rental are you either paying in advance or consenting to funds over $200 being held?
Before you rented your apartment, did you pay for 1 month in advance?
When you go to an amusement park, do you pay in advance?
When you pump your gas, do you pay before or after?
So why would a salon not eventually gravitate to these same policies? A salon can not function with a book full of last minute cancellations and no-shows. While I do understand that clients are scared of getting scammed, my rent comes first as a business owner. I made a YouTube video to help clients understand how to avoid deposit scams. https://youtu.be/sDjf6oRGxz0
I decided to start charging deposits after countless no-shows and a few "run-outs". Yes, clients get styles then literally run out of the salon. A small salon suite can easily cost over $2000 a month for basic operating expenses. There is no room for a $500 loss due to clients not showing up. We turn down clients to hold your spot. We give up family time to hold your spot. We skip running errands to hold your spot. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes (OF COMPETENT hairstylists).
I am Dawn Michelle Williams. I have over 20 years of licensed experience in the field of Cosmetology specializing in natural hair. I'd love to be your stylist if you're in the DC, Maryland & Virginia area. Appointments are made online. https://DawnMichelleSalon.com
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