Why a Home Studio Cheat Sheet?

Starting a home studio doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re a tattoo artist, piercer, or service provider, the building blocks are the same:

  • A safe workspace.
  • A way for clients to book and pay.
  • An online presence to get found.

This is a no-fluff checklist you can follow step by step. Bookmark it. Share it. Use it as your setup guide.

✅ Step 1: Business Admin

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At home studio for business admin

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Before you take your first booking, set up the basics:

  • Register your business (check local requirements). Try U.S. Small Business Administration or your local authority.
  • Separate your finances: open a business bank account.
  • Choose booking software that supports deposits, calendar scheduling, and automated reminders:
    • BooksOpen – built for simplicity without compromise.
    • Calendly – general scheduling.

💡 Pro tip: Don’t let clients DM you to book. Always send them directly to your booking link.

✅ Step 2: Health & Safety

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health and safety at home studio

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Your studio needs to feel professional and pass local health standards:

  • Dedicate a clean, closed-off workspace at home.
  • Stock sanitation supplies: gloves, disinfectants, sharps containers, single-use tools.
  • Review local regulations:

💡 Pro tip: A clean, professional-looking setup builds client trust before you say a single word.

✅ Step 3: Build Your Online Presence

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home studio marketing

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Clients can’t book you if they can’t find you. Start here:

  • Instagram Business Account → Set up here.
  • Google Business Profile → Claim your profile so you show up in “near me” searches.
  • Website with booking links – keep it simple. Use Webflow, Squarespace, or your booking software’s built-in page.

💡 Pro tip: Most clients book on their phone. Test your booking link on mobile and make sure it’s frictionless.

✅ Step 4: Getting Your First Clients

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welcoming your first client

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Your first 10 clients will matter more than your first 1,000 followers. Try this:

  • Do a soft launch with friends and family.
  • Offer intro deals with deposits to reduce no-shows.
  • Ask every client for a Google review and an Instagram tag.

💡 Pro tip: Word of mouth is still the #1 marketing tool. A happy first client spreads your reputation faster than ads.

✅ Step 5: Stay Organized

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staying connected

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Good admin keeps your studio stress-free:

  • Use booking software for calendar scheduling, payments, deposits, and automatic reminders.
  • Track expenses in QuickBooks or Wave.
  • Collect feedback and send follow-ups to encourage repeat bookings.

💡 Pro tip: Automation is your best assistant. Every minute you save on admin is another minute with a client.

📌 Quick Links Resource Hub

Final Thoughts

Your home studio doesn’t need to start big, but it does need to start right. Nail down the admin, make safety non-negotiable, and set up easy online booking. From there, every satisfied client helps spread the word.

Bookmark this cheat sheet. Keep it close. And when you’re ready to take the leap, your home studio will run like a pro.