Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brittany Yeary, Franchise-Owner of IMAGE Studios, located in Lexington, KY, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

IMAGE Studios® was designed for health, wellness, and beauty professionals, making it possible to have your own salon and be your own boss without the usual expense, headache, and hassle of owning a traditional salon. Our concept is simple: we provide an incredible space and atmosphere – you bring your passions, talent, and clientele. Together we create an intoxicating formula for success.

Tell us about yourself

After a 15-year career in the Arts & Entertainment field, I was ready for a change. I was investing so much time and energy in work that I was burning out. I had to take a step back and reassess my priorities. At dinner one night, Jeff Yeary, my father-in-law, asked me what I wanted to do. At 37, I still didn't know what I wanted to do. That was the spark that started my path to IMAGE Studios. So I began the search. I was referred to a franchise coach and author of The Educated Franchisee, Rick Bisio. Rick worked with me to develop a complete model that took a look at what I wanted my life to look like. We used that model to eventually find IMAGE Studios.

I love everything about IMAGE Studios. From our core values of CREATIVITY, FREEDOM, and SUCCESS to the built-in support system from our corporate team and network of IMAGE Owners across the country, I can honestly say I enjoy every day. I cannot think of a better way to spend my time than to support small business owners like me so they can focus on their businesses.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Taking the leap into franchising and building two locations simultaneously in year one!

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Getting the right people in place. Knowing what you are good at and then outsourcing what you are not. As small business owners, we wear all of the hats. The right support will help free you up to do the tasks you need to and grow your business.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Know your market. By knowing who your competitors are, what they are offering, and who they are offering it to, you will be in a better place to market your product to the right people. Don't skip the research.
  2. Talk about your business. If you are not talking about your business, nobody else will. Try to tell your story in a way that will resonate with people. I am currently reading "Building a Story Brand" by Donald Miller. In his book, Miller aims to help business owners (paraphrase) learn how to tailor their story (product, service, etc.) and get noticed in a noise-filled world. In other words, find out how to be the hero in your customers' stories.
  3. If you are not good with numbers, find someone who is to help you. All businesses come down to the bottom line. If you are not making a profit, then you will not be in business for long.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://imagestudios360.com/bios/brittanyyeary/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/IMAGEStudiosLexingtonGreen
https://www.facebook.com/IMAGEStudiosBrannonCrossing

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/imagestudioslexingtongreen/
https://www.instagram.com/imagestudiosbrannoncrossing/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brityeary/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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