The 5 Most Common Mistakes First-Time Spa Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Opening a spa is exciting, but it’s also full of landmines if you don’t know what to watch out for. At Lexi Design, we’ve helped launch spas across the country, and we’ve seen the same missteps recur time and time again. These five common mistakes can cost you time, money, and peace of mind, but the good news is that they’re totally avoidable.

➡️ Planning your own spa? Let’s map it out together—book a consult with Lexi Design.

1. Underestimating Startup Costs
   From build-outs to permits to payroll, spa startup costs add up fast. Many new owners budget for furniture and decor but often overlook hidden expenses, such as inspection fees, signage, and software. This creates significant stress mid-project and delays your opening.
   What to do instead: Build a realistic, itemized budget with a cushion for surprises. (Yes, they will happen.)
   

2. Skipping the Permitting Process
   You can’t just paint the walls and plug in a steamer. Depending on your services and location, you’ll likely need approvals from your local building department, health department, and maybe even the fire marshal. Skipping this step—or starting too late—can cause everything to come to a halt.
   What to do instead: Check your city’s requirements before construction. Lexi Design helps clients avoid costly missteps here.
   

3. Overbuilding the Space
   Oversized treatment rooms, extra sinks, or dreamy but unused lounges might sound nice, but they eat up your budget and square footage. You want a spa that feels luxurious and runs efficiently.
   What to do instead: Build for the business you’ll run in year one, not your five-year fantasy.
   

4. Choosing the Wrong Location
   That cute spot with exposed brick and natural light? It might have zoning restrictions. Or no parking. Or a lease that forbids retail. We’ve seen it all.
   What to do instead: Vet locations with your services and future plans in mind, not just aesthetics.
   

5. Not Defining the Concept Clearly
   If your spa’s vibe, service menu, and name don’t tell a cohesive story, it’s hard for clients (and your team) to understand what you’re about. That confusion costs you bookings.
   What to do instead: Clarify your concept, ideal client, and brand personality before you start designing. That’s how standout spas are built.
   

➡️ Avoid these costly mistakes. Book a strategy call with Lexi Design and get expert guidance from day one.

Final Tip:
You don’t have to get everything perfect up front. But you do need a clear plan. Most of the mistakes we see come from rushing or guessing. Take the time to get support early—it’ll save you stress, money, and regret later.