About 28% Americans are actively working on their own side hustle and 63% have had a side hustle at some point. Side hustles are often born out of a person’s passion and, for many people, develop into a lucrative business. Some lucky folks even get to quit their boring day job and practice their passion full time!
If your passion is braiding hair, you may be wondering if it’s really possible to make money braiding hair. Let’s find out why braiding hair can be a great side hustle for a passionate braider.
It’s Inexpensive to Get Started
You don’t need many materials to get started braiding hair. A comfortable chair for the client to sit, combs, mirrors, and a few other basic supplies are all you really need.
Some braiders may choose to rent a chair at a salon, but it’s just as easy to set up a comfortable braiding station in your garage or home office.
Keep in mind that the ease of starting your business depends somewhat on where you live. Some states allow braiders to operate without a license. However, other states require you to obtain a basic license or even take cosmetology courses to get the required license. Before you get in too deep, check the requirements in your state so you’ll know what to expect.
Practice Your Passion
While it may not cost much money to get started, it does cost time. A lot of people can braid their own hair, but they’re seeking a braider because they don’t know how to do it correctly. Braids can quickly come out or dissolve into a frizzy mess if they aren’t put in correctly.
To that end, you’re going to have to spend some time practicing and preparing yourself to become a professional in the business. Practice on your own hair or call up a friend for a braiding sesh.
Remember, skill is important but so is speed. Once you think you’ve got it down, keep practicing so you can get faster. How long it takes to braid hair depends on various factors including the style and the length of the client’s hair. However, it’s not unusual for a style to take 4 to 8 hours to complete. With that kind of time on the line, clients don’t want to wait for a slow braider!
For this reason, the preparatory stage can be long and you’ll have to put in a considerable amount of unpaid hours. However, for those who have a passion for braiding hair, this won’t seem like work at all!
You Can Choose Your Own Hours
A braiding business can be very flexible, particularly if you work out of your own home. Set up a schedule that works for you and book clients when you have availability.
If you’re starting as a side hustle around your full-time job, you might work on weekends or during the evening hours. This often works better for your clients anyway, making it a win-win for everyone!
If you move to braiding hair full time, you have full control over when you accept clients. Work around your kids’ schedules to save on childcare or to work around other responsibilities you might have. It’s up to you!
Build Your Hair Braiding Side Hustle
As we mentioned, getting into the business takes time and work. Once you’re good at it, you’ll also have to put in some effort marketing and building your client base. However, if you can make yourself stand out above the crowd (faster braider, lasts longer, more diverse styles, etc.) your clients will help spread the word like wildfire!
One thing’s for sure, don’t let a bit of uncertainty stand between you and your passion. Soon, you can make money braiding hair and enjoy life on your terms.