Emma works as a mobile hairdresser as well as training other hairdressers on a freelance contract, she decided to go it alone after her maternity leave and hasn’t looked back.
Tell us your name and a bit about your family? When did you become a Mum and to whom?
Hello, My name is Emma and Im 31 years old, I live in Thurrock with my husband and our son Michael. I became a mum 18 months ago.
What’s your business called?
My business name is Emma’s Hair- Essex.
Can you describe it in one sentence?
Hairdressing services and freelance education for hairdressers.
When did you become a MObile hairdresser and what inspired you?
I decided to go it alone in Sept 2016 after a years maternity leave. I wanted to go back into education which is what my passion is and I was offered a freelance educator contract with a major colour manufacturer. Being freelance meant I could work round having a baby and had more freedom than set salon days. In January 2017 I attended the Vidal Sassoon Academy to refresh my cutting skills after my maternity leave and decided to put myself out there for mobile hair services in Thurrock. Just recently I took on a second freelance contract for education in London which I’m super excited about.
How did you fund your start up?
Social media pages are free! I set up a Facebook page and advertised myself locally. When I had some pictures of clients I expanded to Instagram. I had enough product to get started then invested my profit straight away to buy more.
How do you manage working around your children?
At first having the odd day here and there I could manage by asking family. I had to stay away for training which was hard but I know it will be worthwhile in the long run. Now I’m busier I’ve just committed to a nursery day for Michael as well as our family helping out.
Can you describe a typical day as a mObile hairdresser, what tasks do you have to get done, how do you manage your time?
There are now 3 parts to my business which involve a lot more admin time like spreadsheets and invoicing. I have to make sure all my equipment is cleaned and packed the night before along with Michaels stuff. I have a lot of enquires and emails to deal with which I just have to do throughout the day. I have alot of reading to do too with all the courses I teach! Things are constantly updating.
What challenges have you faced in your business and how have you overcome them?
Being away from home is definitely challenging and I couldn’t have done it without the support from my husband and family.
Also with being contactable 24/7 its hard to switch off, I have to be strict with myself.
What’s the best thing about being Mumpreneur?
Having the freedom to pick and choose what days I work, I know in the long run I’ll have the ability to be there for Michael at certain things or events he might have.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to invest some more into advertising and marketing, I’m aware not everyone uses social media so will look at flyers and perhaps a website.
What advice would you give for someone just starting out in business?
Go for it! It’s easier now than ever with lots of free resources like social media and Facebook pages to advertise. Local children centres often run short courses like cooking or computer skills.
Instagram: @emmashairessex
If you fancy working as a mobile hairdresser check out our other stories of Offering professional services.