Find the answers to top questions about setting up an Online Store, and more.
How long does it take to set up an Online Store?
It typically takes about 5 -10 minutes, and you'll need your distributor account number and salon logo, if you have one, to get started. We highly suggest that you complete your bank setup at the same time so you can receive commission payments. Start the setup process here: https://app.saloninteractive.com/salon_signup
Do I ship the products myself?
There’s no need to carry extra inventory or ship anything. All orders are fulfilled client direct from your distributor or brand.
Do I need a logo to finish setting up my store?
It's not necessary to have a logo, but it does add to your overall branding.
What is a distributor (account) number and why do I need one?
Although some brands self-distribute, SalonInteractive uses a network of professional distributors to fulfill client orders. These distributors are authorized to carry professional beauty brands in their area, which guarantees the quality and authenticity of the products. A distributor number is your account/ID with your local distributor, and it proves that you are a licensed professional and sets up the fulfillment of your client orders. Learn more: What is a distributor and why do I need an account number?
I cannot find or do not have a distributor number. What should I do?
Reach out to your distributor directly to locate your account number or set up an account. Because they only sell to licensed professionals, they may ask for your cosmetology, barber, or esthetics license in the application process.
I don't see the distributor that I buy from.
SalonInteractive is working diligently to onboard all distributors. Hang tight, and we’ll announce when a new distributor is added to our platform. If you are open to other solutions, we do have national brands that ship to all states. For more information, contact support at 312-300-0553. Note: Since national brands self-distribute, they will show up as an "available distributor" in the setup process:
How do I know what distributors are available in my area?
During the setup process for your Online Store, you will add the ZIP code for your salon. Based on your location, you’ll see a list of available distributors to choose from.
What are the best practices for selecting distributors for my Online Store?
If you are currently purchasing your products from a specific distributor or distributor store, start there. When you set up your Online Store and insert your salon location, you’ll see a list of available distributors. If you don’t have a distributor or want to see what products others carry, this is a good point to explore any of the other options. You can always change or add additional distributors later.
Can I add more distributors after I set up my account?
SalonInteractive can be updated to add distributors or brands at any time to reflect your current needs. Learn more: How do I add another distributor?
How do I add or change a distributor?
Log into SalonInteractive, and from your menu, go to eCommerce > Settings. Look for the distributor section. Click the plus sign to add a distributor or the three dots to manage or remove your current distributor. These articles can help:
How do I add another distributor?
How do I remove a distributor?
I don't see the distributor that I buy from.
SalonInteractive is working diligently to onboard all distributors. Hang tight, and we’ll announce when a new distributor is added to our platform. If you are open to other solutions, we do have national brands that ship to all states. For more information, contact support at 312-300-0553. Note: Since national brands self-distribute, they will show up as an "available distributor" in the setup process:
How do I add another distributor?
Can I have more than one distributor?
Yes, you can select more than one distributor as long as you see them available in your distributor settings for your area.
How do I add another distributor?
Can we load our own inventory from distributors not on the list?
Only products carried by distributors on the SalonInteractive platform can be sold through your Online Store.
How does shipping work if I have multiple distributors?
If a shopper on your Online Store chooses to buy products that come from different distributors, they will see only one list at checkout as well as how much more they need to spend to meet each distributor’s minimum amount for free shipping.
What are the best practices for selecting brands for my Online Store?
Your Online Store is an extension of your business, so we suggest selecting only the brands you know and love. Consider mirroring what you have in the salon so clients know they can stock up between visits. Then, let your Online Store be the go-to for specialty products you want to avoid paying to stock in the salon. Remove high-ticket items like tools or specialty products that are typically slow movers from your shelves and offer them exclusively through your Online Store.
How do I know what brands are available in my area?
Once you select a distributor, you’ll see the brands it carries, and then you can select the ones you want to carry on your Online Store.
Can I sell brands online that I don't carry in my salon/spa?
Yes, absolutely! As long as the brands are carried by your selected distributor(s) and don't have any restrictions for eCommerce.
I don't see the brand we carry.
If you have selected the distributor you purchase those brands from but don't see the option to add that brand, please contact your distributor. There is likely additional documentation required to sell this brand online.
How do I find the products I'm looking for?
The availability of a brand has to do with what lines a distributor carries. First, look at what distributors are available in your area, then select the brands you want to add to your Online Store. You may find this article useful: How do I manage my brands?
I can select my brand but cannot activate it to sell online. Why?
Some distributors require specific paperwork to sell their products online in certain areas. Contact your distributor directly to find out what they need from you.
What is a locked brand?
There are a couple of reasons why a brand may be locked:
- There may be an agreement between your distributor and the brands they carry that could limit your ability to sell that brand online.
- A brand may require additional contracts in order to sell its products online. Those products are locked until the documents are signed and returned to your distributor.
Click Show Details for any locked brand and contact your distributor as suggested in the instructions. Learn more: What is a locked brand?
Can I add more brands after I set up my account?
Yes, SalonInteractive can be updated at any time to reflect your current needs. How do I manage my brands?
Can I choose to sell only a few products from a brand?
SalonInteractive makes all retail products available within a brand, allowing your clients to explore new options. Selecting specific products within a brand is not available. However, you can use the Recommendations feature to suggest your favorite or preferred products to your clients. How do I make product recommendations?
What are the differences between Free and Essentials plans?
With the Free plan, you get a customizable Online Store where you can share your favorite brands through Product Recommendations and earn a minimum of 25% commission on every sale. You also have access through participating distributors to Salon Ordering for professional products for your back bar and retail.
The Essentials plan includes everything in the Free plan, plus powerful email marketing tools through Client Connect. You can maximize the success of your Online Store and reach your clients anytime, anywhere with Mass and Automated email campaigns that come with industry-specific templates, email tracking, and dedicated onboarding. Learn more about plans: https://www.saloninteractive.com/pricing
Where do I find the link to share with my clients?
Once your Online Store is set up, you can find the link at the top of your dashboard.
How do I find my online store link?
How do I add my Online Store link to my website?
Each website platform works differently, so there is no one answer to this question. However, here’s a starting point: How do I use my Online Store link on my website?
How do my clients get to my Online Store?
Your clients can access your Online Store through a direct link: How do I find my Online Store link?
There are many ways to share this link:
On your website:
On social media:
- How do I promote my online store on Facebook?
- How do I promote my online store on Instagram?
- How do I promote my online store on Instagram?
In your salon:
How do I add the link to my Online Store to Facebook?
Here are some great ideas:
How do I promote my online store on Facebook?
How do I add my store link to Instagram?
Here's how: How do I promote my online store on Instagram?
How do I add the link to my store to Pinterest?
Learn more: How do I promote my online store on Pinterest?
Can I sell online before I add my bank?
You can sell online without adding your banking information. However, your weekly deposits will not happen until your banking information has been validated.
How do I set up my bank account?
I am unable to log into my account.
There are a few reasons this may be happening: Issues Logging In?
Where do I go to log onto my account? How do I log into SalonInteractive?
I cannot find my account verification email.
Be sure to check your spam, junk, or promote folder, as these emails sometimes like to hide. Key in "SalonInteractive" in your search bar. If you still can't find it, attempt to log back into SalonInteractive and click Resend.
Can I customize my Online Store?
Yes, absolutely. Just click the Customize feature in your menu and follow the prompts. You can choose from several theme types, upload your logo, personalize your header images, messaging, and links, highlight brands, give your own flair to your store category images, and connect all of your business, booking, and social media links in the footer. Learn how: How do I customize my Online Store?
Can I upload my own images to my Online Store?
You can change your header and category images using Unsplash, a stock image website. Here are a couple of articles you may find helpful:
How do I customize my Online Store headers?
How do I customize my Online Store category images?
Can I create my own color theme for my Online Store?
You can choose from one of 5 color themes:
How do I customize my Online Store color theme?
Can I change the font for my Online Store?
Not at this time.
Can I add my booking or social media links to my Online Store?
Yes, you can add external links to the footer of your store:
How do I customize my Online Store footer?
If you need help, our support team is here for you. Give us a call at 312-300-0553 or open a case at support@saloninteractive.com.