For twenty-four years, Trisha Gloverhad dreamed of one day owning her own hair salon. She had worked for four different major salons in Washington County establishing a large clientele and honing her skills as a hair stylist. However, all that time she knew her goal was to be her own boss and to set a high bar of customer service that was second to none. When the day came for her to make the jump, her first stop was to the SBDC office in Marietta. There she meets with John Voorhies the local SBDC Business advisor, and together they began to work toward her goal of a salon not with a gold standard but a Platinum Level of service and quality. On that day, the stage was set for Platinum Salon & Spa LLC to become a reality.
Trisha’s dream was coming true but there were some hurtles. A loan was needed and a business plan that demonstrated the feasibility of her dream. That is where the SBDC became invaluable to her. Trisha, and her husband of 5 years, worked with the SBDC to develop financials and projections for their plan. Together they developed marketing plans. Through visits, e-mails and phone calls they completed a plan that showed profitability, sustainability and growth potential. The plan combined with Trisha’s good credit and years of experience helped her get a loan from Citizens Bank for $60,000 to start her new salon on Front Street right across from the Ohio river in Marietta Ohio.
The location is ideal. Plenty of parking and located in the middle of historic downtown Marietta. The salon features multiple stations for hair and nails and has a Therapy room with a massage therapist on duty along with a full-service manicure and pedicure station. The atmosphere is one of elegance and modern-day chick. This is Trish’s dream come to life.
The SBDC assisted in all aspects of her start-up including forming the LLC, getting her Vendors, EIN Number and getting quotes on Business insurance. Together they developed an employee handbook and a booth rental agreement. The SBDC was a true partner in this adventure. When asked about her experience Trisha said “The SBDC is Fantastic and I highly recommend them for anyone starting a business”. The SBDC will continue to be her partner as she moves forward after all The SBDC’s goal is to GROW, START and SUSTAIN small business.
Third Quarter – 2017