We all dream of being in business for ourselves, to be in control of our income and time. However, few people get to live this dream due to lack of capital/knowledge. Let's discuss your options and what to consider when looking to launch your massage business. 

First of all, this is a lucrative industry right now as many Kenyans are actively seeking massage services to relax and reduce stress, particulary in the more urban areas. 
 

Starting a Brick and Mortar Spa Business 

By, a brick and mortar spa business, we mean a spa with a physical location. This kind of set up requires more capital to start. 
 

Here's what you need to start a physical massage business:
 

1. Capital: You'll need around Sh300,000 to start. Most of this money will be used for setting up the massage room and buying equipment. If you choose to offer mobile services, you'll spend less to start.

2. Licensing: Register your business name online for Sh1000 through the e-government portal. You'll also need local government and music licenses.

3. Skills: Massage requires specialized skills. If you'll be doing the massaging, take a short course in massage therapy to get the right certifications. This will help you attract more clients.

4. Carpenter: Hire a carpenter to partition the shop and fit it with the necessary massage board. The average price should be around sh50,000. 

5. Massage Oil: You'll need different types of massage oils, costing about Sh1,500 per liter.

6. Towels: Buy various sizes of towels. White ones are preferred for cleanliness.

7. Room: You need a spacious room with a waiting area and washrooms.

8. Employees: Hire an office assistant and qualified massage therapists based on demand.
    

When setting up a physical location, it's important that you do adequate research on the demand in your area. It's also important to choose a location that is clean and quiet so your clients feel comfortable coming to your location. 

Starting a Mobile Massage Business

A mobile massage business is easier to start. 

Here's What You Need: 

 1. Capital: This will depend on how you want to brand yourself. However, essentials such as massage oils, towels and a massage board are non-negotiable. A portable massage bed goes for 20,000 on Jumia. It's also a good idea to find comfortable clothing that is suited for massage services, you know, like the nurses dress. 

2. Licensing : Since you're operating indipendently, this would be a personal choice. 

3. Skills -  Skills are particularly important. This will help you get more and regular clients. Nobody forgets a good massage. 
 

Staying Safe During Mobile Massage  

Safety should be your priority when offering mobile massage services. Here are some tips to ensure your safety and the smooth running of the massage:

1. Client Screening: Don't just rush into a job. If you can do it where they book in advance, the better, this helps filter out jokers. You can ask for their details so you can send an invoice to them. This way, incase of anything, you have their information. 

2. Precautions: Consider enrolling in a self-defense course. If you can, buy a taser to help calm clients who might get violent. 

3. Communication: Clearly communicate your expectations and ground rules to clients before the session. Cancel the massage immediately if these standards are violated. It's especially important to clarify whether or not you offer extras. 

4. Hotel Massage: If offering services in hotels, inform the staff of your arrival, the duration of the massage, and the client's room number. Hotels and Airbnbs are better options because they are neutral grounds. Suggest these to a client if you do not feel comfortable going to their place, 

By following these steps, you can minimize risks and ensure a safe experience for both you and your clients.
 

Marketing is Your Friend 

Sometimes when starting a business, the marketing aspect is often overlooked. Or maybe you want to do this side hustle in private, and so using mediums like social media is out of the question. Well, worry not. That is what we do best. By signing up as a massuer on our platform you get your marketing taken care of. 

We have a team of marketers that will market your business online and offline. We currently have a strong precense in Nairobi and will extend this to other cities as we grow. 

To contact us, please sign up and our number will appear at the top of your screen.  Call us and we will discuss further.