Jessica Johnson - thejaxwaxlady

The day I signed my Sola suite lease I was equal parts excited and completely terrified. Nobody warned me about these five things. 👇🏼

SAVE THIS if you’re thinking about going solo, already in a suite, or still trying to figure out if it’s even the right move. These are the things I genuinely wish someone had told me before I made the leap.

1️⃣ Your income doesn’t just “figure itself out.” Having a booth at a salon where clients are already walking in is very different from running your own space. Nobody is handing you a client list. You have to build it — actively, consistently, and from day one. Social media, word of mouth, booking systems, text reminders — it’s a business now, not just a service.

2️⃣ You will undercharge yourself out of business if you let guilt run your pricing. I see this constantly. Your prices have to cover your supplies, your rent, your time, your taxes, your insurance, and your slow months. Charge what your work is worth. The clients who are right for you won’t flinch.

3️⃣ The loneliness is real — and it matters. I didn’t expect to miss my coworkers as much as I did. Building a community — whether it’s through industry connections, mentors, or even just other suite owners in your building it’s crucial.

4️⃣ Your suite doesn’t market itself. Even if it’s beautiful. Even if your work is perfect. Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Google, your booking link — these are not optional when you’re on your own. Visibility is survival.

5️⃣ Having a mentor earlier would have saved me years. Trial and error costs time and money. Having someone who’s already done it — who can tell you what platforms to use, how to build your book, what to charge, and how to handle the slow months — is invaluable. I didn’t have that. I’m building something now so others do in the future so stay tuned.

If you’re a wax specialist or esthetician thinking about your next move and you want to talk shop, my DMs are always open. 🤍

📍 · Jacksonville, FL