My name is Bijal Vyas, and I am the proud owner of Lakme Salon Keshavbaug, located in the heart of the Vastrapur area, opposite ITC Narmada. Although my educational background is in Engineering and Business Administration (MBA), my true passion was always entrepreneurship. This drive led me to step out of the traditional career paths and venture into the beauty industry, an area that was completely new to me.
In July 2019, I took the bold step of starting my journey as a salon owner by opening Lakme Salon Keshavbaug. Little did I know at that time that this venture would shape my future and offer me a path to not only personal growth but also success in a highly competitive industry. Despite not having prior experience in the beauty and wellness sector, I was determined to bring quality, professionalism, and customer satisfaction to the business, which led to incredible growth in a short span.
Challenges
Like any entrepreneur, the path to success was not without its challenges. Coming from an engineering and MBA background, I had no experience or formal training in the beauty industry. Entering an unfamiliar field posed a significant learning curve, and at the beginning, it seemed overwhelming. I had to learn the ropes of the beauty business from scratch, understanding the technicalities, the products, and the nuances of customer service in this new space.
But what truly made this journey smoother was the decision to take a franchise of Lakme. The renowned brand provided a comprehensive support system that helped me understand the inner workings of the business. I received valuable guidance on how to set up and manage the operations efficiently. Lakme’s established brand reputation and business model provided a clear framework to follow, which proved immensely beneficial.
Additionally, I took several technical training courses to learn the core aspects of salon management. These training sessions, both online and offline, gave me the knowledge needed to run the day-to-day operations smoothly, from managing staff to customer service, and everything in between. Over time, I developed a strong understanding of the beauty industry, and with that, my confidence in managing the business grew.
While these challenges were significant, I firmly believe that every hurdle was an opportunity for growth and learning, and it is this mindset that has helped me overcome them and come out stronger.
Achievements
Becoming a salon owner was a dream come true, but I didn’t anticipate the biggest challenge I would face: the COVID-19 pandemic. I had opened Lakme Salon Keshavbaug just before the pandemic struck, which meant that my business was hit hard by the nationwide lockdown. During this time, many businesses had to shut down or limit operations, and the beauty industry was no different. The uncertainty and loss of foot traffic could have been devastating for any new business.
However, with resilience, persistence, and strategic planning, I managed to keep the business afloat. The most significant achievement I can proudly claim is achieving break-even in less than 1000 days, despite entering an entirely new industry. This milestone is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and effective strategies that I implemented in my business. From my initial doubts to now being able to manage a successful salon, this achievement stands as a symbol of what can be accomplished with determination and passion.
Despite not coming from the beauty sector, I had a vision, and I focused on creating a unique customer experience that would differentiate Lakme Salon Keshavbaug from competitors. I ensured that every customer who walked through our doors felt valued and pampered. Whether it was the personalized consultations, the use of top-notch products, or the expertise of my staff, we strived to give the best service possible.
The support I received from Lakme, including the training programs and business guidance, has been indispensable in helping me build a strong foundation for my salon. I was able to establish relationships with loyal customers and expand my network, which contributed to the steady growth of the business. I now proudly run a flourishing salon that provides a range of beauty and wellness services with an emphasis on professionalism and customer satisfaction.
Larger Goal & Vision
As I look toward the future, my vision for Lakme Salon Keshavbaug goes beyond just being a single salon in Vastrapur. My ultimate goal is to expand and build a chain of Lakme Salons, with the second location opening next year and potentially a third in the next three years. The success of my first salon has shown me that there is a strong demand for high-quality beauty services, and I’m confident that expanding my business will allow me to provide these services to even more people in different areas.
Through expansion, I hope to create a brand that stands for trust, quality, and excellence in the beauty and wellness industry. Each salon will carry the same commitment to offering premium services with a focus on customer satisfaction and professional expertise. I also aim to recruit and train a diverse group of professionals to maintain the high standards that Lakme Salon Keshavbaug is known for.
As I grow my business, I envision providing even more specialized services and exploring new ways to offer value to my customers, such as incorporating the latest trends in beauty treatments, sustainable and cruelty-free products, and enhancing the overall salon experience. My long-term goal is to become a key player in the beauty industry and create a brand that people trust and love.
Products & Services
At Lakme Salon Keshavbaug, our focus has always been on delivering exceptional services with professional-grade products that ensure the best results. Being a part of the Lakme franchise has allowed us to offer our clients access to some of the finest beauty products in the industry. Lakme is a well-established brand that is synonymous with quality, which aligns perfectly with my vision for my salon.
Our unique selling proposition (USP) is the combination of high-quality branded products and highly trained experts who provide a wide array of services. Our offerings include haircuts, hairstyling, facials, skincare treatments, makeup, bridal services, and more. Every service is tailored to the specific needs of our clients, ensuring that they leave our salon looking and feeling their best.
In addition to our wide range of services, we also emphasize creating an experience that is both relaxing and rejuvenating for our clients. We ensure that each visit is a memorable one, making our customers feel pampered and well-cared for. Our team is continuously trained in the latest beauty trends and techniques, ensuring that we stay ahead of the curve in a constantly evolving industry.
Target Market
When it comes to our target market, we welcome everyone, from young children to senior citizens. However, our ideal customers are those who are getting married in the near future. Weddings are one of the most important events in a person’s life, and we understand the significance of looking and feeling their best on their special day. Bridal services, including hair and makeup, are one of our most sought-after offerings, and we take pride in helping brides look stunning on their big day.
In addition to brides, we serve individuals of all ages who are looking for professional beauty and wellness services. Our salon caters to both men and women, offering a variety of treatments suited to their needs. Whether someone is looking for a quick haircut, a luxurious spa treatment, or a complete makeover, Lakme Salon Keshavbaug is the destination for all their beauty and wellness needs.
We also see a growing interest in beauty and self-care services among working professionals, young adults, and individuals preparing for important events. Our focus on personalized care, high-quality products, and professional service has resonated with a broad demographic, establishing a loyal customer base.
Conclusion
The journey to becoming a salon owner has been an incredible one, full of challenges, growth, and milestones. My decision to venture into the beauty industry, despite not having a background in it, has proven to be one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. It’s a testament to the power of following your passion and turning obstacles into opportunities.
As I continue to grow Lakme Salon Keshavbaug and expand my business, I am excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. My vision for the salon chain is not just about offering beauty services; it’s about creating a brand that is synonymous with trust, quality, and excellence.
With unwavering dedication, a focus on customer satisfaction, and a commitment to quality, I am confident that Lakme Salon Keshavbaug will continue to flourish and set new benchmarks in the beauty and wellness industry.
