This year the holidays will certainly look and feel a little different for everyone. While there may not be any big gatherings, holiday parties, or social events to prepare for, most people are still going to embrace the holidays in their own way.
The Salon Business
Embracing the Holidays in Your Salon with a 2020 Twist
We know that the holidays are normally a very busy time at the salon and let’s be honest, one of the most lucrative times of year for your business. But this year, without the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and the never ending (but welcome) appointments for blowouts, updos and holiday highlights — what’s a stylist or salon owner to do? The good news is that this certainly doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate the season and come up with some creative and festive offers to encourage your clients to visit your salon for a “holiday hair refresher” or to purchase some gifts and holiday services. It’s also a good time to come up with some fun ways that you can safely celebrate with your staff and clients in lieu of the traditional holiday gathering.
Following are a few suggestions for keeping the “holly” in your holidays and bringing some seasonal cheer to your clients and staff while marketing your business.
SET THE MOOD
Now more than ever, your clients (and staff) will appreciate a holiday-themed atmosphere. Even a small reminder that you are still embracing the holidays in this new and uncertain world can make people smile. So break out the decorations and add some sparkle to your salon. Create a cheerful, festive experience for your clients and staff.
HOLIDAY THEMED PROMOTIONS
The holidays are a great time to promote your products and services for gift giving. Market gift cards, retail products, and discounts on future services. A great way to encourage your clients to purchase gift cards is by offering an incentive or bonus service. For example: for every $100 gift card they purchase they will receive a free $20 gift card, a free product sample, or a complimentary add-on service (i.e.: deep conditioning treatment or blowout) at their next appointment.
PROMOTE YOUR RETAIL PRODUCTS
As you know, some clients still may not be ready to come into the salon for a full service. However, they may be looking for convenient gift ideas. Now is a great time to promote your retail inventory. Perhaps you can create prewrapped, festive gift bags with a few of your favorite products and offer them for sale. Customers can just stop in, pick up a few gifts and leave. Offering curbside pickup for gift cards or gift bags is also an option that may help to boost your sales.
USE DIGITAL MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA TO PROMOTE YOUR HOLIDAY OFFERS
Holiday social media campaigns are a great way to advertise your holiday offers and enhance your customers’ experience. Use your website to advertise all of your holiday sales and if you have e-commerce capability — sell gift cards directly through your website. Emails are also a great way to spread some cheer and let your clients know about what you are doing for the holidays and any special deals that you are offering.
HOST A VIRTUAL HOLIDAY PARTY
If you just can’t get through the holiday season without hosting your annual holiday bash —consider hosting a virtual festivity. You can offer festive giveaways for all who attend the virtual party, advertise your special holiday promotions, and even feature some helpful tutorials on holiday hair or DIY updos. This is a great way to get everyone into the holiday spirit and an awesome opportunity to provide a community event for your loyal customers in a safe way.