Salon owner to freelancer.

Worlds apart, or same but different? Former salon owner turned independent stylist Anne Veck shares her take on the increasingly popular career move from salon owner to freelancer…

With constantly shifting goalposts and ever-increasing costs, salon owners are feeling the pressure more than ever, with many forced to close businesses, and others making drastic compromises to stay afloat. Sustainability champion and multi-award-winning hairdresser Anne Veck knows the responsibility only too well, having stepped down from her Salon Owner role in 2022 to pursue the route of independent stylist and educator.

‘The transition from salon owner to solo operator hasn’t changed in terms of my client work in the salon (2 days/week now) – I’m still as busy as I ever was’ she says. ‘It’s given me certain freedom and benefits, which I value greatly – but it hasn’t been without its challenges.’

The challenges:

Time management
If you’re thinking of selling up and going solo, you must consider your time management skills. This was less of a concern when I owned a salon – I was always booked solid and had to fit other tasks into my busy schedule. Now, as a freelancer, I need to be more efficient with my time. I still work two days a week in a salon, which gives a structure to my week, but the rest of the time I must prioritise my tasks to avoid wasting time. You need to be very disciplined to ensure you are realising your potential – both creatively and financially. The old saying ‘If you want something done, ask a busy person’ certainly rings true for me.’

Losing control
Going from a position of authority to a more passive role can take some adjusting. Many will jump at the opportunity to sit back and let somebody else sweat the small stuff (and the big stuff!) – but it can feel a bit strange not being in control. As a salon owner, I was used to overseeing every decision, and even now I sometimes have to bite my tongue to avoid getting involved in minor situations. If you like having a say in the day-to-day running of a business, the independent life might not be for you.

Networking
This is an element I feel that so many business owners take for granted. Networking opportunities are crucial for building and maintaining my client base as an educator – however, going it alone means that I now need to establish new partnerships to ensure my success. Without a salon, my buying power is significantly reduced, as my current account balance is not comparable to what I used to spend on stock for my two salons. Remember brands reward big accounts with education and show case opportunities- sometimes irrespective of whether the recipient is actually very good at teaching and/or presenting! You will likely find that you must put in the work to secure new contacts and business opportunities, so make sure that you use any spare time wisely.

Financial planning
Freelancing is totally different from the security of a salon owner with a steady income stream and that unpredictability can feel worrying. The brand work that I undertake as a freelancer doesn’t come with a contract, which often means no guaranteed income. Like a zero hours contract without a contract! This can make financial planning more challenging and unpredictable. Careful budgeting and planning are essential to ensure the success and longevity of your solo business.

Total responsibility
As an independent stylist, I’m responsible for all aspects of my business, from marketing to finances. This is a significant change from when I owned salons and could delegate these tasks. Make sure that you feel confident taking on these different roles and organise your time well so that areas aren’t overlooked. There are lots of apps available that can help with this – from managing budget and tracking spend, to social media tools to help promote your business. And there is great support from the Freelance Hairdressers' Association. And don't forget your own education aka CPD!

Of course, there are many positives to going solo. For Anne, it’s been a life-altering decision in the most positive way. Here’s why…

Reduced Stress
As a salon owner, I always found it difficult to balance work, family and social commitments. I often felt guilty about taking time for myself, believing I should always be productive or focused on others. Working solo has allowed me to strike a better work/life balance and to find time for the things that I enjoy. Of course, I still encounter stressful situations as an independent stylist, but not on the same levels – and I’m certain that my physical and mental health has benefitted as a result of feeling calmer.

Increased Flexibility
I think the most obvious advantage of working as a freelancer is having the opportunity to choose your own hours. Perhaps there are days of the week that you’d prefer not to work, or maybe you’re trying to juggle childcare and a 9-5 schedule just isn’t feasible? Working solo gives you greater flexibility; I love being in control of my diary and having the option to work different days or times each week. I’m also able to work from different locations – no one week is the same, and that really helps with my motivation. I can take holidays when I choose, and I find myself being more spontaneous as and when I have free time, too.

Creative Freedom
A reduction is stress and the freedom to choose my own schedule has meant that creatively, I am thriving. The obstacles that used to hold me back have been removed and I now have more time to dedicate to my strengths and passions. It feels incredible to have no distractions, to really get into a piece of work without that nagging guilt. Working freelance has also allowed me to be more open to pursuing opportunities that I couldn’t previously – whether that was due to time constraints or brand commitments.

Salon owner to freelancer? Could be the right move for you!