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

Before you pick out paint swatches or shampoo bowls, you need to make your salon legit. In this episode, Nicole and Alicia walk you through the legal and practical steps of registering your salon business in Toronto, Ontario. From choosing the right business structure (sole proprietorship vs. incorporation), to doing a NUANS name search, getting your CRA business number, and understanding HST registration, we’re laying down the legal foundation. We also touch on one of the most overlooked details—zoning and licensing—to make sure you don’t fall in love with a space you can’t legally use.

This episode is tailored to Toronto and Ontario-based salon owners, but it's a valuable reference for anyone starting a salon anywhere—just be sure to check your local government requirements.

Whether you're just starting out or formalizing your business, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to take the first real step toward salon ownership.

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

Welcome to Season 4! We're diving deep into the business of beauty, starting with what it really takes to open a salon. In this episode, Nicole and Alicia share the essential first steps every future salon owner should know before signing a lease or buying a chair. From clarifying your vision to establishing legal foundations, such as obtaining business licenses and incorporating, we guide you through the groundwork that sets your salon up for long-term success. If you've been dreaming of starting your own space, this is where your roadmap begins.

Find us on Instagram @hello.positiveimage @nicole.manzer @aliciacreate
Email us any ideas, suggestions, or comments at hello.positiveimage@gmail.com
Work with Nicole - manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com
Work with Alicia - alicia.lumsden.to@gmail.com

In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about running payroll in your salon — from how often to pay your team to staying compliant with government regulations. Whether you’re using an hourly, commission, or hybrid pay structure, we’ve got you covered with real-world info and salon-specific tips. We’ll walk you through payroll frequency, deductions, software options, managing tips, and more. This episode is packed with practical advice, including a downloadable cheat sheet to keep your payroll smooth, stress-free, and compliant.

Hint: Find the cheat sheet on our Instagram Bio Link

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

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

Work with Nicole - manzermethodcoaching@gmail.com

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

Our next episode will be the first of a 7 part series and kicking off Season 3!

For this summer season we will air episodes every 3 weeks until the fall.

Happy business buidling beauties!

In this episode, Nicole and Alicia dive into the art of communication and boundaries with salon teams. They explore how salon owners can stop being the fixer and start empowering their staff to solve problems on their own. From asking the right coaching questions to explaining the "why" behind business decisions, they share strategies to build stronger, more self-sufficient teams. They also open up about navigating the fine line between personal and professional relationships at work—and how to clearly communicate when it's time to switch hats. Whether you manage a big team or a small crew, this episode will give you the tools to lead with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

💡 Want to know how documenting systems, active listening, and healthy boundaries can transform your salon culture? Tune in!

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 AI and emerging technology are transforming the salon industry—from marketing to client care and beyond. They break down how tools like ChatGPT can simplify everyday tasks like writing emails, creating social media content, and managing rebooking reminders. Nicole shares how AI has been a game-changer in supporting her as a neurodivergent business owner, while Alicia highlights how automation can ease operations like payroll and appointment confirmations.

They also touch on the emotional side of adopting new tech: the fear, the resistance, and the undeniable need to evolve as consumer behaviour shifts. From AI-generated images to the future of virtual try-ons, this episode encourages salon pros to explore digital tools while staying rooted in the human connection that makes the beauty industry special.

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

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

Work with Nicole - manzermethodcoaching@gmaill.com

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