Business

Commission or Chair Rental? Hairstylists, Read This First

Commission-Based Salon vs. Chair Rental—Pros, Cons & What to Know It’s one of the biggest career decisions a stylist can make: Stick with commission or go independent. And while the freedom of booth rental can look tempting, the reality is a lot more layered. We asked industry pros Kristen Colòn (@kristenmcolon) and Mick Lewis Continued

March 25, 2025·1 min read

Modern salon interior with black styling chairs, lighted mirrors, and sleek white countertops under decorative pendant lighting.
Commission-Based Salon vs. Chair Rental—Pros, Cons & What to Know It’s one of the biggest career decisions a stylist can make: Stick with commission or go independent. And while the freedom of booth rental can look tempting, the reality is a lot more layered.   We asked industry pros Kristen Colòn (@kristenmcolon) and Mick Lewis (@hairbymickk)—salon owners who offer both rental and commission models—to break down what stylists really need to know before making the switch. Think: realistic insights, smart questions to ask yourself and what to expect.   Ahead we break down the financial responsibility for both chair renters (more…)