Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1280345
30 indie stylist Volume 1 Issue 2 Niche 2: Bridal/Wedding Kati Whitledge, founder and CEO of Be Inspired Salon in Madison, Wisconsin, takes brides seriously. "To be a part of a bride's wedding is a true honor. We chose the bridal hair and makeup niche from the very beginning, because I knew there was an opportunity in our market to package bridal services in order to provide a seamless experience." But, specializing in this area is a commitment, warns Whitledge. "You cannot sort of take care of brides. It's either among the best of what you do, or it's not a lane to go down." Niche 3: Curly Hair In addition to bridal hair and makeup, Be Inspired Salon is the only salon in Wisconsin that specializes in naturally curly hair. Whitledge says, "Our ability to work with textured hair attracts guests throughout Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois. It's been remarkable to see how many lives are enhanced by working with stylists who understand their curls." Find your people. To find niche clients, go where they are. Granted, in this COVID climate, you're not out there hobnobbing with people outside your family, work, or social circle. Instead, cyber search. Start with friends on social media, and branch out from there. Is there a particular personality type that interests you? Another place to find potential clients is by reading reviews. What are clients complaining about on Yelp or Google Reviews? Is there something you offer that your competition, frankly, stinks at? Kati Whitledge Kati Whitledge, founder and CEO of Be Inspired Salon in Madison, Wisconsin, focuses on bridal hair and makeup. "You cannot sort of take care of brides. It's either among the best of what you do, or it's not a lane to go down."