The Sola Difference

You have plenty of salon models to choose from, and there's a right fit for everyone. Maybe a traditional, commission-based salon feels more comfortable. Or maybe you're ready to carve your own path as an independent business owner and take your future into your own hands.

Over 22,000 beauty professionals have discovered the Sola difference and taken that next step toward building a business they can truly call their own. But of all the salon suite companies out there, why Sola?

You'll often hear this phrase among Sola pros: "I came to Sola to take control of my life and future." We wanted to go deeper. What is it about Sola, specifically, that makes such a difference in the personal and professional lives of independent beauty professionals?

It comes down to four words: you simply get more.

Since our first location opened in Denver, Colorado, Sola has been changing the game for independent salon ownership. We've listened, watched, and learned from our community to stay ahead of industry trends, continually evolving our studios, education, and technology.

How We Make the Transition to Ownership Seamless

• A comprehensive Start-Up Guide covering licensing, tax information, marketing tips, and more

• Professional liability insurance so your business is protected from day one

• Access to business education and exclusive industry deals

• Your own Sola website, easy to manage and built to help clients find you

• Ongoing webinars covering everything from marketing and social media to pricing strategy and KPIs

• The Sola Blog, packed with business tips, marketing advice, and real success stories from the community

• Extensive franchisee and manager training so you're always supported

• A community of over 22,000 independent salon owners to learn from and grow alongside

But don't just take our word for it. We asked Sola pros how Sola gives them more time, more flexibility, and more of everything they need to succeed professionally.

Sola Breaks the Mold

Going independent with Sola means leaving behind the traditional commission-based model and stepping into ownership, your own brand, your own studio, without the overhead and risk of building a salon from scratch.

"I chose Sola because I was ready to change how I wanted to live my life. I decided to take a look at how a place like this could put me on a path where I'm in control of how creative I can be as an entrepreneur." — Julie Nhi, Cosmic Nails LLC, Charlotte, NC

"My choice to leave a traditional, commission-based salon was based on my need to completely control my own schedule and create an enjoyable experience for my clients. I chose Sola because it was turnkey-ready, which mattered a lot for my peace of mind as a first-time independent owner. I quickly realized I was gaining so much more than an easy transition." — Ashley Lantz, TressPassing Salon, Avondale, AZ

Sola Supports YOUR Brand

As kids, we hear things like "be you, everyone else is already taken." That's harder to do as an adult when you're helping build someone else's brand. At Sola, you display your own name and logo, and design your studio exactly the way you want it.

"I chose Sola because I wanted my clients to have a consistent brand experience. I didn't want to manage multiple personalities and try to get them to support one shared vision, especially with the turnover most barbershops deal with. I'd almost never seen a shop maintain its brand over time, because it has to keep filling seats with both clients and new barbers." — Chris Matthew, Dillinger's Hair Company, Long Island, NY

We Do It For You

Our Sola managers genuinely care about your success and make sure you have what you need to thrive.

"My Sola landlord wants to make sure we're successful. It's not just about whether we make rent. I've never once felt unworthy or belittled. The company and its founders are generous, and genuinely thankful to play a part in your journey." — Alex Sylvester, Edge by Alex Sylvester, Birmingham, MI

Technology Built for Sola, By Sola

One major difference between Sola and other salon models is technology created specifically for our community. Our tools keep Sola pros connected to the industry, offering business and marketing education, artistic inspiration, and exclusive brand partnerships, all in one place.

"That technology was introduced to me right away, and I still use it weekly to see what education is happening in my area and what's new within the community." — Ashley Lantz

Set Your Own Prices

When you work for someone else, they dictate your value. At Sola, you set your own prices. You decide what you're worth. You raise your rates when it's time. You keep the profits from everything you choose to retail.

"The private suite life lets me create something my clients literally can't find an alternative to, and build an experience that allows me to charge more. I just raised my prices again, all while keeping my overhead reasonably low." — Chris Matthew

A Supportive Culture and Community

Be in business for yourself, not by yourself. That's the standout difference. When you need help, you're never alone. With over 22,000 independent salon owners in the Sola community, you're surrounded by people building brands, hitting goals, and living life on their own terms, whether that's connecting in person at Sola events or online with pros across North America.

"To have the opportunity to completely create your own business model, but with the support and guidance of a brand whose main goal is to help you succeed, is truly magical. Belonging to a community of thousands of like-minded, courageous beauty professionals who share their triumphs and stories with you is the best gift. If you want to be inspired, have mentors, and learn from the best doing it every day, there's nothing like the Sola culture and community." — Kim Bennett, Kim Bennett Studios, Denver, CO

Ready to Discover the Sola Difference?

Making a change that affects your livelihood and financial stability can be scary. Sola understands that it takes trust, patience, and real support to make that transition successful. The difference between going independent on your own and doing it with Sola is simple: you're never alone.

Find a Sola location near you and discover the Sola difference.