Get All Access for $5/mo

How a Long Wait in Line Made This Franchisee Understand Demand and Provide a Solution While waiting for a blowout, Hiedeh Honari realized that San Francisco could use more blow dry bars. So, she took action.

By Kate Taylor

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Cherry Blow Dry Bar
Cherry Blow Dry Bar

Franchise Players is Entrepreneur's Q&A interview column that puts the spotlight on franchisees. If you're a franchisee with advice and tips to share, email ktaylor@entrepreneur.com.

Entrepreneurship is all about identifying a problem and creating a solution. Hiedeh Honari realized an issue in San Francisco while waiting for her blowout: the city didn't have enough blow dry bars to meet the demand. So, she decided to take action, opening a Cherry Blow Dry Bar. Here's what she has learned.

Name: Hiedeh Honari

Franchise owned: Cherry Blow Dry Bar, in San Francisco

How long have you owned a franchise?

Opened in August 2014.

Related: Tapping Into My Creativity as a Bottle & Bottega Franchisee

Why franchising?

I favored the idea of opening a business where I didn't have to reinvent the wheel. There are many components that go into an operational business. With the backing of a franchise and a strong corporate team, I could hit the ground running.

What were you doing before you became a franchise owner?

Full-time mom! I've also worked in interior design, and as an actress.

Why did you choose this particular franchise?

I was waiting in line at a different blow dry bar and recognized the long lines and high demand. It was at that moment that I knew this was a booming industry and a business that had great potential. I chose Cherry Blow Dry Bar not only because I loved their concept and approach, but because I wanted to be the first franchisee in San Francisco and introduce the brand to a new city.

How much would you estimate you spent before you were officially open for business?

$400,000.

Where did you get most of your advice/do most of your research?

My husband and our attorney. Of course, I also spoke with every friend, family member and professional acquaintance I could get to listen! I had enormous positive feedback, and also did a lot of research online.

Related: How This Couple Went From Customers to Franchisees

What were the most unexpected challenges of opening your franchise?

Opening was the easy part! Once you open and you find yourself handling both the business and customer ends is when the challenges kick in.

What advice do you have for individuals who want to own their own franchise?

The business does not run itself, be prepared to do the gritty work and the handle the not-so-glamorous ends of the business.

What's next for you and your business?

I would like to expand. I'd love to have up to three salons, more employees, and be the go-to blow dry bar in San Francisco!

Related: How I Bought My First Franchise With a Tax Refund

Kate Taylor

Reporter

Kate Taylor is a reporter at Business Insider. She was previously a reporter at Entrepreneur. Get in touch with tips and feedback on Twitter at @Kate_H_Taylor. 

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Business Ideas

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Business News

These Companies Offer the Best Work-Life Balance, According to Employees

The ranking is based on Glassdoor ratings and reviews.

Leadership

Why Your AI Strategy Will Fail Without the Right Talent in Place

Using fractional AI experts through specialized platforms allows companies to access top talent cost-effectively, drive innovation and scale agile strategies for growth.

Science & Technology

Use This Framework to Successfully Integrate AI Into Your Business Operations

Here's how to ensure both innovation and compliance when using AI in your organization.

Growing a Business

Why Business Owners Should Streamline Their Operations Now for Success in 2025

As the holiday season and year-end approach, business owners face heightened operational demands, from inventory management to spend control. By streamlining these processes and partnering with flexible suppliers, businesses can maintain efficiency, meet customer needs and focus on growth while navigating this busy period.