Welcome to "The Business of Style"! Today, we're excited to share our conversation with Kirstin LeBrun, owner of Kharma Salons in Victoria, BC. Kirstin's story is packed with inspiration and practical tips for anyone looking to make it in the beauty industry.

Starting Small, Dreaming Big

Kirstin started her beauty journey 10 years ago. Now, she owns almost four locations in Greater Victoria and manages a team of nearly 50 staff members. What’s more impressive? She’s still a full-time service provider, staying hands-on with her clients while running the show behind the scenes.

Balancing Acts: Behind the Chair and the Desk

Being both a stylist and a business owner, Kirstin knows the ins and outs of the beauty world. Her husband plays a key role too, handling crucial tasks like payroll. This teamwork lets Kirstin focus on both the client experience and business growth.

Always Learning and Growing

Kirstin is all about continuous learning. She offers a variety of services, including permanent makeup, waxing, and laser treatments. This keeps her business fresh and appealing to a wide range of clients.

Giving Back and Helping Others

One of Kirstin's passions is sharing her knowledge with others. She posted on Instagram to help those thinking about starting or expanding their salons. She felt alone when she started and wants to make sure others have the support she lacked. Transparency about the true costs of running a salon is key for her.

Facing Financial Realities

Running a salon isn't cheap. Kirstin talks about the importance of understanding costs like rent, products, and unexpected expenses like staff premiums. She believes in adjusting prices regularly to keep the business sustainable, even if it feels uncomfortable.

Building Community and Being Honest

Kirstin values honesty with both her staff and clients. By educating her team about the financial side of things, she creates a supportive work environment. She encourages salon owners to communicate openly with clients about price increases and to offer different service levels to suit various budgets.

Advice for New Salon Owners

If you’re thinking about opening a salon, Kirstin suggests finding a mentor. Learning from someone who's been there can help you avoid common mistakes. Building a network and continually seeking knowledge are crucial steps to success.

Reflecting on the Journey

When asked what advice she would give her younger self, Kirstin talks about the importance of passion and resilience. The journey has its ups and downs, but the rewards of building a successful business and watching others grow make it all worth it.

Final Thoughts

Kirstin's final advice is about self-motivation and community support. Surround yourself with like-minded people and never stop learning. To keep up with Kirstin’s journey and get more tips, check out her Instagram. Her openness and dedication to sharing knowledge make her a fantastic resource for anyone in the beauty industry.