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Booth Rent vs. Commission Stylist: Which One Builds Your Dream Career?
- Juliana Conaway
- Jun 1
- 2 min read
Thinking of renting a booth or jumping into commission life? Let’s cut the fluff and get real.
There’s freedom. There’s flexibility. There’s also taxes, supply runs, and a whole lotta behind-the-scenes hustle. The truth? Neither path is perfect. But one of them might be perfect for you.
Whether you're just starting out or craving a career glow-up, here’s your no-BS breakdown of booth rent vs. commission—and how to figure out which path actually vibes with your goals.
Commission Stylist: Structure, Support & Serious Growth Potential
What is it? At Muse Salon, commission stylists are employees. You get paid a percentage of your services and we handle the back-end: clients, backbar, marketing, taxes—you name it.
Why You’ll Love It:
💓 Help with growing your book 💓 No product runs—backbar's on us 💓 Taxes? Already handled, babe 💓 Paid education + mentorship 💓 Salon fam = instant support system 💓 10 paid days off a year. Yep, paid. Time off is self-care too.
Let’s kill the old-school myth: Commission isn’t code for “zero freedom.” At Muse, you’re not locked down—you’re supported, mentored, and PAID even when you take time off (because you deserve it).
Booth Rental: Boss Energy & Full Control
What is it? You rent a chair and run your biz solo. Your schedule, your rates, your brand, your vibe.
Why It Slaps:
✂ Total freedom over your services, pricing, and hours ✂ Higher earning potential when you’re booked solid ✂ Full control of your client experience ✂ You’re the boss—period.
But Here’s the Real Talk:
🧾 You’re paying for everything—rent, backbar, color, marketing, all of it 🧾 You’re also your own assistant, accountant, and hype team 🧾 You must have a steady clientele or it can get dicey fast
So... Which One’s Better?
Here’s the thing: there’s no “better”—just better for you.
At Muse, we’ve watched stylists thrive in both lanes. Your choice should match where you're at in your career, and what kind of support (or freedom) you're craving.
🦋 Want structure, growth, and space to focus on your craft? Commission could be your lane. 🎨 Ready to build your empire and do things your way? Booth rent might be calling your name.
The best part? We support both. That’s what makes Muse different. You’re not boxed in—you’re backed up.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Whether you’re rent-ready, commission-curious, or totally unsure—we’re here to chat. No pressure, just real talk, mentorship, and options that actually fit your goals.
📧 Slide into our inbox at musesalon805@gmail.com 📍 Located in Arroyo Grande 📲 Follow the stylist life on IG @musesalon 💻 Book a free career convo
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