I work in an independently owned large walk in salon in a small town. I have been there for 9 years. There are 10 operatos.  About 2 years ago my boss hired her son, who is also a stylist. The kid is arrogant as hell. He acts as if he owns the salon, and has broken every rule ever established in the salon. Nothing gets said about it, but the air in the salon is so thick you can cut the tension with a knife. I am seeing my fellow employees stress out every day, and worse than that, I myself am saying things i don't want to say( to my fellow employees about him and the salon, sort of venting if you will). I am feeling and acting in ways that really aren't in my typical behavior. I hate gossip, I hate backstabbing and I hate that I AM FALLING INTO THE DARK HOLE OF TALKING BEHIND BACKS AND SHOP GOSSIP!! I know better and it's not becoming of anyone to practice this behavior. Therefore I am in the planning of my own salon at my house. I am very excited, and extremely nervous. I know that I will lose clients, but I feel confident that I will pick up new ones. I am not living up to my potential in this salon. There are many things I would do different. Adding a more personal, classy atmosphere would be one big step. I want to offer those traits, and many others to my own salon. Has anyone reading this post been there done that? Can anyone offer any helpful advice? I am all ears and open to all suggestions for success, Thanks, Jen (sorry for the length)

definitely been there, haven't done that as far as opening my own salon.i have a nemesis at my salon right now,and it does bring out the worst in you.sometimes it's hard to take the high road.i'm trying to wait this one out, but it's difficult.

as long as you have zoning in your neighborhood for a business,and you have the proper specs to get the place licensed for use as a salon,why not go for it? the cost is minimal,since you already pay for a mortgage there.just make sure it's all legal before you open up inspection-wise.the fines are steep!good luck!