FINDING FURNITURE
Choosing the proper furniture for your salon's space and budget is essential. "Furniture is a key component to the overall design and helps set the tone and enhance the environment," says Jason DeSantis, regional sales manager for Takara Belmont's New York City showroom. DeSantis offers practical tips for choosing and ordering the best furniture for your needs.
 Takara Belmont outfitted Zhen Reflections in Spring Park, MN. |
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. "Too many times salon owners order the furniture at the last minute, which adds unnecessary stress and pressure," DeSantis says. "Salon owners should always ask for lead times for specific items—depending on where they're manufactured, it could be from two to 14 weeks."
UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRICE AND COST. "Price is the actual amount paid at time of purchase, while cost is what the piece costs you in dollars over the life that you have it," DeSantis explains. "Clients get caught up with the lowest price but actually spend much more in the long run with repair and service issues than they would have with the higher quality, higher priced unit."
KNOW YOUR BUDGET. You should have an idea of what you want to spend and where the money is going, whether it's construction costs, mill work, salon equipment, working cash or any other number of things. "A rough budget helps streamline the process and helps designers and equipment companies better fit your needs," DeSantis says. For more information, visit takarabelmont.com. —L.M.