Becoming a mobile beauty therapist offers flexibility and the chance to create a personalised service for clients.
However, setting up a successful mobile beauty business requires careful planning, financial management and strategic marketing.
We’ve gathered top tips from industry professionals to help you navigate the challenges and ensure a thriving business.
Before you start: laying the foundation
The idea of becoming a mobile beauty therapist is exciting, but it’s crucial to lay a solid foundation before diving in.
Planning is key, and many mobile therapists recommend starting with a comprehensive business plan.
Bella Kowalska, owner of The Nail Bus mobile business in Lancashire and previous PB Awards finalist, emphasises the importance of aligning your short-term and long-term goals. “It’s very easy to lose track of where you envisioned your business going as you get inundated in the daily grind of running your own business.”
Laura Spinola, owner of Beauty & Balance, a luxury mobile facial business based in South West London, advises, “The key factors to consider include how far you’re willing to travel, the areas you’d like to work in, and which locations have a high demand for mobile services.
“You’ll also need to decide which treatments to offer and plan how to transport your equipment efficiently.”
Legal and financial considerations
Setting up your mobile beauty business involves more than just choosing treatments and buying equipment. There are legal and financial considerations to address.
Hayley Snishko, owner of Home Sanctuary in Surrey and winner of Mobile/Home-based Beauty Business of the Year 2024 at the Professional Beauty Awards, stresses that legal protection is essential.
She says, “Insurance is crucial for protecting both you and your clients. Make sure you’re covered with professional liability insurance and vehicle insurance that includes business use.”
When it comes to finances, Amanda Hayes from The Beauty Bus in Oxfordshire recommends setting aside money for taxes. “Before I even pay myself, I put 20% of what I make into a separate account solely for tax,” she shares.
Deciding on treatments: what clients want
Choosing the right treatments to offer is one of the most important decisions you'll make.
The services you provide should align with your skills, client demand and financial capabilities.
Snishko advises looking at the competition: “Review other mobile therapists in your area and decide whether you want to compete with or offer different services. You don’t have to offer everything straight away – focus on what you can afford and what your clients will appreciate.”
Spinola adds, “Focus on specialising in one or two specific areas and work toward becoming known for those services.
“This can help you build a reputation and attract clients who are seeking that expertise.”
Initial costs: planning your budget
Starting a mobile beauty business is relatively cost-effective compared to running a salon, but you will still need to make some key investments.
Snishko highlights that the most significant investment is often your vehicle. “You need a reliable car with enough space for your equipment. Public transport isn’t practical for long-term mobile work, so having your own transport is crucial.”
Beyond transportation, you’ll need to invest in professional equipment, booking systems and online marketing tools.
Hayes advises, “Purchasing equipment from reputable sellers is a must. Also, having a solid booking software can streamline your business operations.”
Setting your prices: know your worth
Pricing your services can be tricky, but it’s important to value your work properly from the start.
Hayes recommends researching local competitors and setting your prices accordingly. “When starting out, I priced myself higher than average, so I wouldn’t have to constantly raise my prices. Two years later, I’m now more in line with the average rates.”
Snishko agrees, adding that it’s important to account for all your expenses. “Be mindful of the cost of vehicle maintenance, fuel and product supplies.
“You also need to factor in your time – be sure you’re charging enough to cover your expenses and still make a profit.”
Building your client base: marketing and networking
After handling the initial setup, it’s time to attract clients. Word-of-mouth referrals are one of the most effective ways to build a loyal client base, but social media and local networking can also help.
Spinola shares, “Having a strong marketing plan is crucial – without a physical shopfront, you’ll need to find effective ways to promote your services.”
Snishko suggests leveraging client referrals. “Offer an incentive or referral scheme to encourage your existing clients to recommend your services to their friends.”
Joining forces with other local businesses is another way to grow your client base. Hayes recalls teaming up with a yoga studio to offer massages to their clients.
This can help you tap into an established client base that is already inclined toward wellness services.
You can also use influencers to promote your business – find out how here.
Running a successful mobile beauty business
Becoming a mobile beauty therapist offers numerous opportunities for flexibility and independence.
However, careful planning, proper investments and effective marketing are essential for long-term success.
For more expert tips on running a beauty business, check out our other article on setting up a salon in your garden.
