For Taree’s Luci Maurer, beauty has always been more than just a career choice, it’s a form of creativity and expression. After completing her qualifications, including a Diploma in Beauty Therapy, Luci followed her dream of opening her own salon, Beauty by Luci, in January 2025.
Like many young entrepreneurs, she quickly discovered that starting a business comes with more than its fair share of challenges.
“I was worried about covering expenses each week while I tried to build up my client base,” she said.
That’s when she connected with VERTO’s Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) program and began working with Self-Employment Facilitator, Kahrina Richardson.
“Luci came to us with a business she was passionate about but struggling to make profitable,” Kahrina explained.
“We worked together to develop a detailed business plan and a two-year financial forecast to give her direction and structure. From there, she successfully joined our 12-month coaching program, where I meet with her monthly to provide coaching, resources, and ongoing support.”
For Luci, one of the most valuable aspects of the program was gaining confidence in managing her finances.
“Kahrina helped me prepare a financial statement right at the start. It’s been so helpful to compare my predicted sales with actual sales each quarter. It’s something I wouldn’t have thought to do on my own,” she said.
Then just as her business was beginning to find its feet, disaster struck. The May floods devastated many local businesses, and Luci’s rented salon was among them.
“I lost all my furniture and most of my products and equipment,” she recalled.
“It was heartbreaking. Everything I had invested in was gone.”
But instead of giving up, Luci chose to rebuild. She found a new location outside the CBD, and what first felt like a setback soon became an opportunity.
“My new salon has turned out to be a blessing,” she said.
“The rent is lower, I’ve got more space, and I was able to design the salon exactly how I wanted it. It really feels like home now.”
The new premises have also allowed her to expand her services. Alongside her signature nail artistry, she now offers treatments such as body waxing and has plans to introduce facials in the near future. More importantly, she’s built a loyal and growing clientele.
“I was worried clients might not follow me to the new location, but the support has been incredible. I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved.”
Looking ahead, Luci is excited about adding new treatments and continuing to grow Beauty by Luci. And her advice to other aspiring business owners?
“I would absolutely recommend the Self-Employment Assistance program. The support has been invaluable, especially through the tough times.”
Today, Beauty by Luci is thriving, not just as a salon, but as a story of resilience, agility, and a young entrepreneur’s determination to turn challenges into opportunities.
For more information about the Self-Employment Assistance program, contact VERTO on 1300 483 786 or visit: www.verto.org.au/our-services/self-employment-assistance.
