What I learned from Tabatha's Salon Takeover

First of all, Tabatha Coffey is fierce. She is a hair stylist who loves what she does with a passion. On this Bravo series, she comes into failing salons and takes over (hence the title), pointing out where, why and how the business is not working, and making the difficult changes that will turn the salon into a successful venture.



This show is a must-see for anyone running any kind of small business. Take a gander at it just once. I am in no way a hair stylist, although I've certainly been guilty of playing kitchen beautician with my scissors in the bathroom mirror a million times. We won't even get into the entire hair coloring thing. . . But Tabatha has taken what she loves to do and has made a mini-empire from it. Now, she is explaining to people how they can do the same. She gives all kinds of great advice that you can apply to your own business ventures.



I just got home a bit ago from getting a haircut (no, really), and flipped the TV on while I was eating my yummy Quizno's Chicken Ceasar salad, and Tabatha said something that hit home. Every time you look at your business, you are looking at your wallet. I don't think this way. I make jewelry because I love to make jewelry. That's all well and good, but it's no longer just a hobby anymore. I have chosen to turn my artistic passion into a small business. I've spent the past few days working on improving my photos in my etsy shop and promoting a little extra, I list regularly, and I certainly love to write about random things here. I've met so many wonderful people through etsy and other places. I love to do shows and festivals. However, up to this point, though I've worked very hard, but I don't think I've looked at it as a serious business.



I'm not sure I can make that big philosophical jump this afternoon, but the time has certainly come. Have any of the rest of you made this mental leap, of truly looking at your passionate creative hobby as a business, as your wallet? If so, please let me know any tips or advice for transition.



Oh, and the premire of Tabatha's second season is tonight at Bravo. Check her out. She is English and stern and wonderful.