How to Start a Spa Business

So, you’re thinking about opening your own spa—how exciting! Maybe you’ve dreamed of creating a peaceful escape for others, or maybe you’re ready to build something of your own in an industry you love. Either way, this is a big, bold step—and yes, it's a great time to start one.  

The spa industry is experiencing significant growth, making it an opportune time to enter this flourishing market. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the global spa market is projected to reach $156 billion by 2027, reflecting an annual growth rate of 8.3% from 2022 to 2027. This upward trend underscores the increasing consumer demand for wellness services, presenting a promising landscape for new spa ventures. 

Of course, along with the dream comes the nerves. You might be wondering: What if I pick the wrong location?What if I can’t find the right team?How do I even get licensed or market myself in a crowded space? These questions are completely normal.  

The truth is—starting a spa business can feel like a rollercoaster. One minute you’re imagining the calm, glowing faces of your future clients, and the next, you’re knee-deep in zoning regulations or hiring headaches.  

Opening a wellness business was one of the most exciting, nerve-wracking, and rewarding things I’ve ever done. I still remember the moment I decided to go for it—it wasn’t because everything was perfectly aligned or because I had all the answers. It was simply because I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I wanted to create a space where people could walk in stressed and leave feeling like the best version of themselves. 

If you’re reading this, you might be in that same place—dreaming, researching, maybe even second-guessing. So, I want to walk you through what it was really like to open my business, what worked, what didn’t, and what I wish someone had told me from the start. 

This post will help you navigate the details, plan for success, and bring your spa vision to life—step by step. Let’s turn your “what ifs” into confident action. 

The vision comes first

Before writing a business plan or looking at locations, spend some time getting clear on your vision. What kind of experience do you want to offer? Are you going for luxury, affordability, holistic wellness, or something totally different? Make a mood board, write down your ideal customer, and imagine what you want people to feel when they walk in. 

This is more than daydreaming—it will help you make every decision with purpose later. 

When I was dreaming up my business, I knew I didn’t want to just open another wellness business—I wanted to create a brand people felt the moment they stepped inside. Something that made them say, “Ahhh, this is exactly what I needed.” Branding your spa is about way more than just a pretty logo or calming colors (though those help!). It’s about crafting a full experience that speaks to your ideal client, builds trust, and keeps people coming back.

To position your spa for success, it's crucial to align your offerings with current consumer preferences. The International SPA Association's 2024 Consumer Snapshot highlights that active spa-goers prioritize personalized experiences and are willing to invest more in services that cater to their specific needs. This indicates that customization and attention to individual preferences can enhance client satisfaction and loyalty. 

If you’re just getting started—or you're ready to elevate what you already have—here’s how to build a spa brand that truly stands out: 

1. Start with your why 

Before you dive into aesthetics, get clear on your purpose. 

• Why did you decide to open a spa?
• What kind of transformation do you want your clients to experience?
• What feeling do you want to create? 

Whether it’s deep relaxation, self-confidence, holistic healing, or affordable luxury, this core message will shape everything else. 

Pro tip: Write your mission in one sentence. If it excites you, you're on the right track. 

2. Know your ideal client 

Your brand should feel like a magnet to your ideal clients. Ask yourself: 

• Who are they?
• What do they value?
• Where do they shop, scroll, or spend time? 

For example, if your ideal client is a busy mom looking for peace and pampering, your brand might lean nurturing, warm, and calming. If you're catering to beauty trendsetters, you might go more sleek, bold, and fashion-forward. 

3. Create your visual identity 

Now that you know who you’re talking to and why you’re doing it, it’s time for the fun part—design! 

Key elements of your spa’s visual brand: 

• Logo – Keep it clean, professional, and adaptable for signage, socials, and products.
• Colors – Choose a palette that reflects the mood of your brand (think: muted neutrals for relaxation, soft greens for nature, gold and white for elegance).
• Fonts – Use legible, brand-aligned typography. One headline font + one body font is usually enough. 

These visuals should feel cohesive across your website, social media, printed materials, and inside your spa.  

4. Design the client experience 

Your brand isn’t just what people see—it’s what they feel. Think about every touchpoint: 

• The way your team greets clients
• Your booking process
• The scent when someone walks in
• The tone of your Instagram captions
• Your spa music, tea selection, or aftercare products 

Every detail contributes to your brand story. A strong brand experience is what makes people talk about your spa and return again and again.  

5. Stay consistent 

The magic of branding is in consistency. Repeating your message, your look, and your vibe creates trust. 

• Use brand templates for social media and emails
• Train your team in the brand voice and values
• Audit your materials every few months to make sure everything still feels aligned 

6. Let your story shine 

People don’t just buy services—they buy stories. So don’t be afraid to share yours. Why did you open your spa? What’s your background? What do you believe in? Put it on your website, sprinkle it into social media posts, talk about it in consultations. 

Your authenticity is part of your brand—and it’s one of the most powerful ways to connect with people. 

Remember that your brand is a living, breathing thing. It’s okay if it evolves as you grow. What matters most is that it stays rooted in who you are and what you want your spa to represent. Create a brand that feels good to you, and chances are, it’ll feel good to the people you’re meant to serve 

Write a business plan

Writing a business plan for your spa is one of the most important steps you can take to turn your vision into reality. It’s more than just a document—it’s your blueprint for how your spa will operate, grow, and succeed. Your business plan will help you clarify your goals, understand your startup costs, outline your services, define your target market, and map out your marketing and financial strategies. It’s also essential if you plan to seek funding or lease a space. Most importantly, it gives you confidence and direction—so when challenges come up (and they will!), you have a solid foundation to guide your decisions. 

To be honest, this part was intimidating. But putting together a business plan forced me to get real about the numbers: startup costs, pricing, how many clients I’d need to break even, and what kind of team I could afford to build.

It was hard, but it was also empowering. Suddenly, my dream didn’t feel like a fantasy—it felt like a tangible plan. 

When planning your spa, it’s important to carefully consider each service you want to offer—and the costs that come with providing them. This includes the equipment you'll need to purchase, as well as the staff required to perform those services consistently and professionally.

The good news? You don’t need to offer everything right away. In fact, starting with a focused menu can help you launch more smoothly. As your business grows, your client base develops, and revenue starts to flow, you can gradually expand your offerings to meet demand and elevate the experience.

Check out this blog on how much it really costs to open a spa to help guide you as you think about all your expenses. 

Finance your dream

You’ve crafted your business plan, found the perfect location, and you’re ready to turn your vision into reality. Now comes a critical step: securing the financing to bring your spa to life. 

There are several ways to fund your new business, and the right choice depends on your personal circumstances and goals. Some spa owners start by self-financing—using savings or tapping into support from friends and family. Others explore external options like small business loans or lines of credit.

One great resource to help you explore your options is the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Their website offers valuable tools, including a Lender Match program that connects entrepreneurs with SBA-approved lenders based on their business needs. 

Mindbody Capital is another great resource that can provide simple, flexible funding designed for wellness. It’s specifically designed for beauty and wellness businesses, so there are fewer hoops to jump through compared to other funding options.  

No matter which route you choose, you’ll want to set up a dedicated business banking account. Not only does this make your finances easier to manage, but it also helps when applying for loans, keeping your records clean, and building credibility with financial institutions. 

Financing your spa is a big step, but with the right plan and tools, it’s completely within reach—and one step closer to opening your doors.

Find the right location

I toured at least a dozen spaces before I found “the one.” It wasn’t perfect on paper, but I could feel it was right. It had great foot traffic, plenty of parking, and just enough character that I could make it mine without breaking the budget on renovations. 

Pro tip: don’t fall for the biggest or fanciest space. Fall for the one that fits your brand and your budget. 

When choosing the right location for your spa, there are several important factors to keep in mind: 

• Foot traffic – Is the area busy enough to attract walk-ins or build awareness?
• Parking availability – Will clients have a convenient place to park?
• Nearby competitors – Are there similar businesses nearby, and if so, how can you stand out?
• Surrounding businesses – Do neighboring businesses attract the kind of clientele you want?
• Zoning regulations – Some cities allow spas in residential areas, while others do not. Be sure to check local zoning laws as you begin the licensing process. 

To make this process smoother, we’ve put together a checklist selecting the right location for your salon or spa to help you evaluate potential locations and find the best fit for your salon or spa. 

Secure licenses and permits

This was the least glamorous part of the journey, but absolutely essential. Depending on your state and city, you may need multiple licenses (business license, esthetician licenses, health department approvals, etc.). I made a spreadsheet to keep track of it all—because, trust me, the paperwork can pile up fast. 

My advice: Don’t try to wing this part. Talk to other spa owners, call your city’s business office, and get clarity early on. 

Choose the right spa management software

Running a spa means wearing a lot of hats—scheduling appointments, managing your team, handling payroll, keeping up with marketing, and staying on top of performance reports. It’s a lot to juggle, especially for a small business owner. 

That’s where choosing the right spa management software can make all the difference. A great platform should streamline your operations and automate time-consuming tasks, freeing you up to focus on what really matters: your clients and your team. 

Booker by Mindbody is one popular solution built specifically for spa and salon owners. It combines booking, marketing, payroll, inventory, and reporting tools all in one user-friendly system. 

Mindbody also offers industry-leading software designed to help spas grow—bringing in new clients, increasing revenue, and simplifying your day-to-day operations. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade, investing in the right technology can help your business run more smoothly and scale more confidently.

Build the right team and staff

I thought hiring would be simple—find talented people who love what they do. But I quickly learned that culture fit is just as important as skill. I wanted my spa to be a supportive, welcoming place for both clients and staff. I took my time, asked a lot of questions in interviews, and hired people who believed in the same vision I did. 

And, yes, there were a few hiring mistakes. It happens. Just learn and adjust. 

1. Assess service requirements and staffing roles 
    
   Begin by evaluating the range of services your spa will offer. Identify roles essential for delivering these services, such as estheticians, massage therapists, front-desk personnel, and retail associates. Determine whether staff members will have dual roles, such as performing services and managing client check-ins, or if you'll have specialized positions. For instance, a versatile team member might handle both service delivery and sales, requiring cross-training in both areas. 
    
   
2. Define compensation structures 
    
   Competitive and transparent compensation is crucial for attracting and retaining talent. In 2025, there's a growing emphasis on pay transparency and equity, with many states implementing laws requiring salary information in job postings. Align your compensation packages with industry standards and consider performance-based incentives to motivate your team. According to Mindbody, the most profitable spas maintain a direct pay-to-service-provider ratio in the low to mid-30% range, allowing for comprehensive support staff payroll and benefits while keeping total labor costs under 55% of revenue. 
    
   
3. Navigate licensing and training requirements 
    
   Ensure that all service providers hold the necessary licenses and certifications as mandated by state regulations. Develop a comprehensive onboarding program that familiarizes new hires with your spa's culture, operational procedures, and service standards. Ongoing training should be a priority, covering both technical skills and customer service excellence. Utilize resources like Mindbody and Booker’s software certifications program to enhance your team's proficiency. 
   
4. Implement effective onboarding programs 
    
   A structured onboarding process is vital for integrating new employees into your spa's culture. This program should introduce new hires to their colleagues, familiarize them with daily operations, and provide training on your spa's software and customer service protocols. A well-thought-out onboarding experience can lead to higher job satisfaction and reduced turnover rates. 
   
5. Offer competitive benefits and work-life balance 
    
   Beyond salary, offering a comprehensive benefits package can significantly impact employee retention. In 2025, there's a trend toward personalized benefits that cater to diverse employee needs, including flexible work arrangements and wellness programs. Promote a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout and maintain a motivated workforce. 
   
6. Encourage professional development 
    
   Invest in your employees' growth by providing opportunities for professional development. This can include sponsoring attendance at industry workshops, offering advanced training sessions, and supporting career progression within your spa. A team that feels valued and sees opportunities for growth is more likely to remain committed to your spa's success. 

By implementing these strategies, you can build a dedicated and skilled team that enhances your spa's reputation and drives its success. Remember, investing in your employees' satisfaction and development not only benefits them but also contributes to a thriving business environment.  

For more, read our ultimate guide to staffing and check out our spa staffing template.

Set your prices

Setting pricing for your spa services is a critical step in ensuring your business is both profitable and competitive. Your prices need to reflect the value you provide, the quality of your services, and the market you're operating in. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you set effective pricing for your spa services.

1. Understand your costs 

• Direct costs: These include the cost of products used in services (e.g., skincare products, oils, lotions), as well as any equipment or consumables (e.g., towels, sheets).
• Labor costs: Calculate the wages of your service providers, front-desk staff, and management. These costs should be factored into the pricing.
• Overhead: Consider your rent, utilities, marketing costs, insurance, and any other fixed expenses.
• Software/Tools: Account for your spa management software, booking system, and other tools you use to run your business. 

2. Research the market 

• Analyze local competitors: Research what nearby spas and salons are charging for similar services. Take note of the service quality, experience, and reputation they offer compared to yours.
• Understand market positioning: Decide if you want to position your spa as a luxury, mid-tier, or budget option. Your pricing should align with your spa's positioning.
• Assess demographic factors: Consider the income levels, age, and interests of your target market. For example, a spa located in a high-income area can charge more for services, whereas a spa in a more budget-conscious neighborhood may need to be more affordable. 

3. Define your services and value 

• Service differentiation: Offer services that stand out from competitors. Whether it's through specialized treatments (e.g., CBD facials, holistic therapies) or additional perks (e.g., complimentary refreshments, robes), you should define how your offerings justify the price.
• Luxury vs. basic services: If you’re offering premium treatments like hot stone massages, anti-aging facials, or custom wellness packages, you can justify higher pricing. Basic services, like standard facials or regular massages, may need to be priced lower. 

4. Price per service type 

• Hourly rate model: For treatments like massages or facials, calculate how much you need to charge per hour to cover costs and generate a profit. For example, if you want to pay your therapist $40 per hour and cover $30 in product and overhead costs, your service should be priced at around $100 to $120 per hour (after factoring in other operational costs and profit margins).
• Package pricing: Offering service packages (e.g., five massages for the price of four) encourages clients to commit to multiple visits and increases average revenue per customer. These packages can be discounted slightly to create value while still protecting your margins.
• Add-ons: Create a pricing structure for add-on services (e.g., scalp massage, aromatherapy) that can be added to a base treatment. These add-ons allow you to increase the value of each session without dramatically increasing costs. 

5. Consider tiered pricing 

• Different pricing levels: Offer different service tiers at various price points. For example, a basic massage at $75, a signature massage at $95, and a luxury massage with add-ons at $120. This allows you to appeal to different customer segments.
• Membership pricing: Offer monthly memberships that include discounted services, which can provide consistent revenue and incentivize repeat business. 

Keep your pricing simple though, clients can easily be overwhelmed by too many choices on your pricing menu. 

6. Factor in discounts and promotions 

• Introductory offers: Consider offering a discount for new clients (e.g., 20% off the first visit) to encourage trial and bring in customers.
• Seasonal promotions: Around holidays or special events, offer package deals or promotional pricing to attract clients looking for gift options or self-care indulgence.
• Loyalty programs: Offer discounts, points, or rewards for repeat customers who return for treatments regularly. 

7. Build in profit margins 

• Set a profit margin: Aim for a profit margin that ensures you not only cover your costs but also generate enough to reinvest in your business. Spa profit margins typically range between 10% and 20%, but this can vary based on your market and business model.
• Consider your business goals: Do you want to make your spa a luxury experience or a more budget-friendly option? Your pricing should align with your business vision. 

8. Consider retail sales 

• Personalize product recommendations: Encourage your team to recommend products during or after a service. Also, ensure your front desk team is trained to handle quick, friendly checkouts that feel like a natural part of the visit. 

• Simplify the checkout process: Whether in-person or online, checkout should be quick and painless. Accept both cash and cashless payments to remove friction and increase conversion. 

• Stay on top of inventory management: Avoid empty shelves or overstock by setting up a reliable system to track inventory, restock when needed, and manage storage. Your backend processes matter just as much as the sale. 

• Don't overlook gift cards: Gift cards bring in upfront revenue and attract new clients. Even better, recipients typically spend more than the card’s value, turning a $100 gift into a $150 sale—no extra marketing required. Check out our guide to selling gift cards like a pro.

9. Offer exclusive pre-opening discounts a “Founding Member” package 

• Build a “Founding Member” package: These early buyers can feel like they’re part of an exclusive group, receiving something extra for their commitment and enthusiasm. Not only does this bring in income before you even open your doors, but it helps establish a buzz around your brand and ensures that your first few weeks are filled with clients who are already invested in your spa. 

• Create limited-time discounts on packages or memberships: Before opening day get customers eager to experience our spa. The presale will set you up financially and set the tone for our spa's culture of offering value, exceptional service, and a warm, welcoming environment. 

10. Include taxes and gratuities 

• Taxes: Be sure to incorporate local sales tax and other applicable taxes into your pricing structure so you're not caught off guard.
• Gratuity: If you're including a standard gratuity for services, clarify this in your pricing or as a policy on the booking system. Many spas add 15-20% gratuity automatically. 

11. Regular review and evaluation 

• Review pricing regularly: Spa pricing isn’t static. Regularly review your prices and adjust based on changing costs, market trends, or shifts in customer preferences.
• Price increases: Implement small, annual price adjustments. Clients generally anticipate these changes, making the process smoother and more predictable for both you and your customers.

Market your spa

Once your spa is ready to welcome clients, now it’s time to spread the word. Marketing covers a lot of ground, so the key is choosing the strategies that best align with your target audience and your local community. 

Effective marketing is essential to distinguish your spa in a competitive market. The Spa Insights Report emphasizes the importance of understanding consumer communication preferences and tailoring marketing strategies accordingly. Utilizing digital platforms, engaging content, and personalized outreach can effectively attract and retain clients. 

1. Start with social media marketing

   Social media is often the first place to start—and for good reason. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer powerful tools to build brand awareness, showcase your space and services, and engage directly with potential clients. Try launching with a grand opening special or a referral promotion to spark interest and drive traffic. These types of offers not only get people through the door but also encourage word-of-mouth buzz. 

   To help you get started, check out our step-by-step guides to Facebook and Instagram marketing—they’ll walk you through the essentials of creating content, running ads, and growing your online presence.  

2. Build an email marketing plan and pair it with SMS 
   
   Email marketing is another cost-effective way to stay connected with your community. Once you’ve built a small list, send campaigns that offer helpful tips, promote new services, or include special offers to entice both new and returning clients. Need a boost? Our email marketing guide will walk you through the basics. 

3. Don’t overlook print marketing

   In certain neighborhoods, good old-fashioned print materials still work. Consider distributing flyers or postcards locally—especially in nearby cafes, fitness studios, or retail shops where your ideal clients already hang out.  

4. Plan your budget wisely

   Marketing does require an investment of both time and money, so it’s crucial to plan ahead. As you build your business plan, take a close look at what marketing efforts make the most sense and how much they’ll cost. Our marketing plan and budget guide will help you map it all out and ensure your dollars go where they’ll make the biggest impact.

Launch your business

Opening day arrived quicker than I could have imagined. I don’t think I slept a wink the night before. There were so many emotions—excitement, nerves, and a hint of uncertainty about whether everything would go as planned. 

But when the first client walked in and I saw them take a deep breath, exhale, and relax into the space I had worked so hard to create, it made every late night, early morning, and moment of doubt worth it. 

To be completely honest, though, our launch wasn’t flawless. The credit card machine had a momentary glitch, we ran out of towels, and I even forgot to stock tea in the waiting area—one of the little touches I’d promised myself would make the spa experience feel so special. But, as with everything in business, it was a learning experience. We tackled the hiccups, adjusted, and grew stronger. And as the days passed, word began to spread. Our clients shared their experiences, posted on social media, and our small, humble business began to build a loyal following.

Start your spa business

While no guide can replace the experience of starting your own business in this industry, hopefully this has been helpful. 

If you’re thinking about opening a spa, feel encouraged to take the leap. It won’t be easy—but it will be so, so worth it.