ASBTDC at U of A Client Stories: The Millhouse Salon and Spa

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A random drive past a new development in Springdale piqued the interest of Brandon Hamilton, and with a bit of research online, he discovered Johnson Square, a community of homes, luxury apartments and a town square with restaurants, retail, professional and service businesses. He immediately envisioned it as a perfect spot for a salon and spa. This led to a call with the developers, and Hamilton learned that they wanted a high-end service and product line for the lone remaining retail space. Kismet!

Hamilton initially began his career 20 years ago with Aveda, a leading high-performance, plant-based hair and skin care brand. After confirming with Aveda that this location in Northwest Arkansas would be ideal and met their criteria, Hamilton quickly got down to the business of creating The Millhouse Salon and Spa.

Reaching out to the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at the U of A, he worked with consultant Lori Lieblong to access guidelines and advice for starting the business. Initial steps revolved around market research, building the business plan and financial projections in preparation for a loan package. Funding for the project included a commercial loan plus owner investment. Hamilton worked with the center to finalize a detailed, solid plan, and he and Jerry Davis, his husband and business partner, signed the lease in November 2021 with a contract guarantee that The Millhouse Salon and Spa will be the only salon on Johnson Square!

"The ASBTDC did an amazing job helping me start my business by working with me write a great business plan and with the financial projections," Hamilton said. "The detailed business plan gave me confidence."

Buildout began in June 2022 with construction completed by September. Hamilton faced a challenge with two major expenses not previously understood to be monthly charges, but by working with the landlord plus specific numbers and planning under the guidance of Lieblong and ASBTDC, he was able to stay on track.

The Millhouse Salon and Spa opened in September 2022 with four full-time and four part-time employees. Hamilton has referred several entrepreneurs to the center, telling them, "You have to go. ASBTDC will give you a great foundation and great confidence!"