Taxes don't have to be scary—but they do have to be understood. In this episode, Nicole and Alicia break down the essentials of salon taxes in a practical, easy-to-follow way. They cover what HST is and how it works, payroll taxes and remittances, and the basics of business and corporate taxes. You'll learn what each tax is for, how often it needs to be paid, and what money is actually yours versus what belongs to the government.

Important disclaimer: Nicole and Alicia are not accountants or lawyers. This episode is for educational purposes only and is meant to help you understand how the system works—not to provide legal or tax advice. Always consult a qualified accountant or tax professional for guidance specific to your business.

This episode is all about clarity—helping salon owners feel confident, organized, and prepared so there are no surprises at tax time. Whether you're newly self-employed or running an established salon, this is a must-listen for understanding your responsibilities and building a financially healthy business.

Find us on Instagram

@hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate

Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments

hello.positiveimage@gmail.com

Work with Nicole

manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

Work with Alicia

alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com

In this episode, Nicole and Alicia dive into the beautiful (and sometimes tricky) world of client gifting—who to gift, what to give, when to give, and how to make it meaningful without breaking the bank.

They explore ways to show appreciation through small branded items, low-cost gestures, personalized messages, and value-added services like scalp treatments or product perks. Whether you're using loyalty tracking software, celebrating milestones, or surprising VIP clients, this episode will help you create gifting strategies that strengthen relationships and reflect your salon's unique brand.

You'll also hear real examples of simple appreciation moments—like personalized thank-you notes and birthday gestures—that go a long way in building loyal, happy clients who love supporting your business.

If you've ever wondered how to elevate your client experience through thoughtful gifting, this episode offers easy, budget-friendly ideas you can start using today.

Find us on Instagram:
@hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate

Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments:
hello.positiveimage@gmail.com

Work with Nicole:
manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

Work with Alicia:
alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com

In this episode, Nicole and Alicia dive deep into one of the most important (and sometimes challenging) parts of salon ownership — hiring the right people. They discuss how knowing your brand values is the foundation for attracting the kind of team that truly fits your culture and helps your business grow.

You'll learn what questions to ask in interviews, what to include in your job posting to filter for the right applicants, and how to design a hiring process that aligns with your salon's goals. Plus, they explore a surprisingly refreshing topic — how to support team members who dream of opening their own salon — and why mentorship over fear is the future of leadership.

If you're ready to grow your team with purpose, this episode is packed with insight, strategy, and real-talk from behind the chair and behind the business.

Find us on Instagram
@hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate

Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments
hello.positiveimage@gmail.com

Work with Nicole
manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

Work with Alicia
alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com

In this episode, Nicole and Alicia explore how community engagement can become one of the most powerful tools for business growth and brand trust. From local sponsorships and charity events to pay-what-you-can haircuts and school fundraisers, they share how authentic giving and collaboration can elevate your salon's reputation and attract loyal clients.

They also discuss how to align with like-minded local businesses, balance marketing with genuine connection, and find creative ways to get involved without losing focus on your core values. Whether you're hosting community events or looking to build stronger B2B relationships, this episode will inspire you to give back while growing your business in meaningful ways.

Find us on Instagram

@hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate

Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments

hello.positiveimage@gmail.com

Work with Nicole

manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

Work with Alicia

alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com

In the final episode of our How to Open a Salon in Toronto series, Nicole and Alicia dive into the exciting world of branding, marketing, and launch strategy. They unpack what it takes to build a magnetic brand, attract your dream clients, and design a marketing plan that works without overwhelming you. From choosing booking systems and creating content to planning a buzz-worthy grand opening, this episode covers the essentials of getting your salon noticed.

Along the way, you'll learn how to:
✅ Define your brand identity and values
✅ Identify and market to your dream client
✅ Build a marketing plan that's consistent, not constant
✅ Create content and visuals that build trust
✅ Launch your salon with confidence and visibility

This episode closes out our 6-part summer series on opening a salon in Toronto—but the lessons apply wherever you are. If you missed the earlier episodes, now's the perfect time to go back and catch the full roadmap to salon ownership.

We'll be back soon with Season 5, bringing you more authentic conversations, empowerment, and community in the beauty industry.

Find us on Instagram
@hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate

Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments
hello.positiveimage@gmail.com

Work with Nicole
manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

Work with Alicia
alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com

In this episode, Nicole and Alicia break down why every salon owner needs a policy and procedure manual—and how to actually create one without overcomplicating things. From payroll and compensation basics to vacation rules, sick leave, and product commissions, they cover what to include so your team knows exactly what's expected.

They discuss how clear policies not only protect you legally, but also empower your team, prevent misunderstandings, and keep your salon running smoothly without constant micromanagement. You'll also learn practical tips for building your manual, introducing it to your team, and keeping it updated so it grows with your business.

If you've ever wondered how to set boundaries, avoid drama, and lead with confidence, this episode gives you the framework to get started.

Find us on Instagram
@hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate

Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments
hello.positiveimage@gmail.com

Work with Nicole
manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

Work with Alicia
alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com

In this episode, Nicole and Alicia walk you through Realistic cost breakdowns for opening a salon in Toronto—from buildout to insurance, with tips on budgeting and surprise expenses

They'll break down:

• The Big Categories – What You'll Spend On
• Renovations & Buildout Costs
• Furniture, Equipment & Fixtures
• Licenses, Legal, Insurance & Admin
• Inventory, Branding & Other Start-up Costs
• Funding Your Salon
• Budgeting Advice + Surprise Costs
• Ongoing Monthly Costs You'll Need to Budget For
• Tips to Stay Financially Sane

If you're planning to open a salon in Toronto, Ontario, this episode is your go-to guide—but it also serves as a helpful reference for salon owners anywhere. Please ensure you check with your local government for regional laws and procedures.

💡 Avoid expensive mistakes and set yourself up for success by setting a budget and a buffer.

• Use a spreadsheet to track every category of expense
• Add a 10–15% buffer for unexpected costs
• Prioritize insurance, electrical, plumbing, and legal support
• Look for used equipment—but invest in comfort and plumbing-related pieces
• Always ask for detailed quotes before committing to renos
• Startup Budget Template (Google Sheets) (you can create a branded one to share with listeners)
• Futurpreneur Startup Funding
• Women Entrepreneurs Ontario
• BDC Loan Programs

Find us on Instagram
@hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate

Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments
hello.positiveimage@gmail.com

Work with Nicole
manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

Work with Alicia
alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com

In this episode, Nicole and Alicia walk you through one of the most critical steps in opening your salon—finding the right space, understanding commercial leases, zoning requirements, and passing Public Health inspections.

They'll break down:

• What to look for in a salon space (foot traffic, layout, plumbing, etc.)

• What's hidden in commercial lease agreements and what clauses matter

• The zoning requirements to legally operate a salon in Toronto

• How to apply for your Personal Services Setting Licence (PSSL)

• What's needed to pass your Public Health BodySafe inspection

• How to properly set up a business bank account

If you're planning to open a salon in Toronto, Ontario, this episode is your go-to guide—but it also serves as a helpful reference for salon owners anywhere. Please ensure you check with your local government for regional laws and procedures.

💡 Avoid expensive mistakes and set yourself up for success by learning what needs to be done before you sign that lease.

• City of Toronto – Zoning and Licensing Info:
  https://www.toronto.ca/business-economy/business-start-ups/licences-permits/personal-services-setting-licence/

• Toronto Public Health BodySafe Program (Inspection & Setup Guidelines):
  https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/bodysafe/about-bodysafe/

• Notify Public Health Before Opening:
  Email: BodySafe@toronto.ca
  Info required: Name/address of salon, owner name, services, expected opening date, and your PSSL/business registration (if available)

• City of Toronto Zoning Search Tool:
  https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/zoning-by-law-preliminary-zoning-reviews/zoning-information/

Find us on Instagram
@hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate

Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments
hello.positiveimage@gmail.com

Work with Nicole
manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

Work with Alicia
alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com