In a recent SmartTan.com poll, 43 percent of salons said their salon’s décor has a modern theme.

Twenty-seven percent said they use a spa theme, and 21 percent said their décor is a tropical theme. The remaining 9 percent said their décor follows a different theme than those listed.

Your salon’s décor is the most significant and recognizable element of its brand. It’s about more than visual appeal and functionality – the theme and décor speaks volumes to customers about the values of your business and the experience it provides. For better or worse, customers will judge the quality of the salon based on appearance alone, and even the best products, equipment and service in the world likely won’t be able to alter those initial perceptions.

Branding is about developing a connection between business and consumer and, even if you provide a superior experience, customers will likely look elsewhere if they can’t relate to your brand and enjoy the way it makes them feel. Of course, you can’t have a brand that everyone will relate to – that’s why you should have a target customer in mind when developing your brand. And whatever look you choose, it should definitely be distinctive.