The Six Figure Personal Stylist Podcast

How Personal Stylists Can Build a Recession-Proof Business (Even Now)

Nicole Otchy - The Styling Consultancy Episode 64

Consumer spending patterns are shifting. While we're not technically in a recession as of May 2025, discretionary spending has slowed by $2 billion month-over-month, and people are becoming more cautious with their purchases—even when their bank accounts remain healthy. If you've noticed it's been harder to sign clients lately, you're not imagining it.

In this episode of The Six Figure Personal Stylist Podcast, I share six essential strategies to navigate economic uncertainty and keep your styling business thriving. Drawing from my experience building a six-figure business during the 2008 recession and rebuilding after COVID decimated my high six-figure income down to $60K, I'll show you exactly how to position your business for success regardless of economic conditions.

2:49 – Why the pandemic created a flood of new stylists while established pros lost clients (and what this means for the current market)

10:29 – The real data behind recession predictions and the spending indicators every stylist should monitor

15:24 – Strategy #1: Why clarity is cash—how to position your services as essential solutions, not luxuries

18:04 – Strategy #2: The retention secret that kept my business profitable when new client acquisition plummeted

19:03 – Strategy #3: Why style tips don't convert in uncertain economies (and what messaging actually works)

20:54 – Strategy #4: The smart way to diversify income without chasing low-ticket offers that don't sell

26:42 – Strategy #5: How to attract growth-focused clients who see downturns as opportunities, not obstacles

29:37 – Strategy #6: Why consistent visibility is your best sales insurance (and the 3 things every piece of content should accomplish)

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