The Holiday season is a magical time, filled with celebrations, gift-giving, and an undeniable buzz in the air. For our Salons, it’s also the busiest and most profitable time of the year.
However, success during this period doesn’t happen by chance. It requires careful planning and preparation.
With 24 years as a Salon owner, my experience I hope, can help you get your Salon ready to shine this holiday season.
- Plan early
- Stock up on inventory
- Decorate your space
- Prepare yourself and/or your team
- Optimize your appointment scheduling
- Engage with “clients” on social media
- Offer exclusive holiday services
- Focus on gift cards
- Express gratitude to your clients
- Reflect and set goals for the New Year
Plan early
The Holidays are usually synonymous with special deals and promotions right? Whether it’s discounts on popular services, gift card offers or product bundles, having a well thought out promotional strategy is crucial. After all, don’t you like a good sale?
Start planning your strategy at least 3-4 months in advance (hence this article) and start talking about your promotions a couple months in advance. Consider creating limited time offers which create a sense of urgency and encourage clients to book appointments or purchase products sooner rather than later.
Stock up on inventory
Nothing is as grueling as running out of stock during our peak season. Review your inventory and identify your best-selling products. Bring on special holiday-themed products. Create gift sets if they aren’t readily made or bundles which make for perfect presents combining popular products in festive packaging. Keep in mind all the Holiday parties your clients may need gifts for.
Decorate your space
Ambiance in your Salon plays a significant role in the overall customer experience. At my Salon, our entire team looked forward to our Holiday decorations, as did our clients. A well-decorated space can elevate the mood and make your clients feel more festive. Think simple. Don’t overwhelm. Think twinkle lights, elegant wreaths and don’t forget the Holiday music.
Prepare your team
You and your staff is your most valuable asset during the Holiday season, especially during rush time. Make sure you are prepared by reviewing Holiday promotions, upselling techniques and especially customer service standards. Along with sanitation and attitude. If you do have a team, consider offering incentives to team members who go above and beyond during this busy season.
Optimize your appointment scheduling
During the Holiday season, every appointment spot is valuable. To maximize your bookings, you might want to consider;
- Extending your hours later in the day or even earlier in the morning
- Use scheduling software if you think it’s too much for you to handle
- Reduce no shows by sending automatic reminders or better yet, do it the old0fashioned way and call to confirm
Engage with clients on social media
Social media continues to be a powerful tool for promoting your Holiday offerings and staying connected with your clients. Start teasing well in advance. Share behind the scenes glimpse of your preparations, showcase your Holiday decorations and feature your Holiday services.
Encourage your clients before they leave your station, to share their Holiday beauty looks and ask them to tag your Business. This creates a sense of community and helps spread the word for potential new business.
Offer exclusive Holiday services
Consider adding just one or two seasonal services to your menu which cater to the Holiday theme. This could include manicures, skin care, makeup, pedicures reflecting relaxation in an effort to help clients de-stress during the hectic season. These exclusive services can help attract clients who are looking for something different and special. Make them want to come back for more next year.
Focus on gift cards
Gift cards are a Holiday staple and a great way to boost revenue. They are the perfect solution for last-minute shoppers and can also help to attract new customers to your Business. Promote your gift card offerings hard on social media, on your website and definitely in store. Consider offering an incentive like a free polish change with each gift card purchase.
Express gratitude to your clients
Although we should express gratitude every day, the Holiday season is the perfect time to show appreciation to your client’s loyalty. Consider a Holiday email or yes….a hand written card. Small gestures like offering Holiday cookies and special refreshments can go a long way. You might even want to consider a small gift.
Reflect and set goals for the New Year
While the Holiday season is a busy time of year, it is also an opportunity for you to reflect on the current year past and set goals for the future. Take time to analyze your Business performance, identify areas which may need improvement and set realistic goals for the coming year. This can include anything from expanding your service offerings, replacing an old sink, increasing your social media presence or enhancing your client experience. Having clear goals will set you up for success in the year ahead,
Centre for Beauty can help you help your Business. On our website, we will have by the end of the month our Holiday products available. Some will be in stock, some will be pre-order. Either way, we promise not to disappoint.
CJ Murray, President
thank you for the reminders.
always helpful
My pleasure 🙂