Thrive Not To Survive: 12 Holiday Tips for Salon Success

With clients eager to look their best for holiday gatherings and New Year’s Eve parties, salons can experience a significant boost in business. However, navigating this bustling time requires more than just good cheer and a dash of tinsel. Here are twelve tips to help salon professionals glide through the holiday season with success and style.

Deck the Halls with Exclusive Offers

Create holiday-themed packages or limited-time offers to entice customers. Think beyond the standard haircut and color; offer unique services like festive nail art, holiday hair updos, or rejuvenating winter skin treatments. These exclusive deals not only attract new customers but also encourage regulars to try something new. Remember, exclusivity creates a sense of urgency, so highlight these offers as special holiday treats!
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Jolly Good Marketing

Utilize social media platforms to showcase your holiday spirit and promotions. Post before-and-after photos of holiday styles, share festive salon decorations, or create engaging content like styling tips for seasonal parties. Engaging online not only boosts your salon's visibility but also connects with clients on a personal level, making them feel part of your salon's holiday journey.

Gift of Giving: Retail Therapy

8 in 10 of your clients that aren’t purchasing product from your store are purchasing online! This is why it’s important to have your own online store to have them stock up, while at home.

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Stock your salon with holiday-themed retail products. Whether it's special hair care sets, unique styling tools, or festive beauty products, offering a range of items gives clients the opportunity to purchase gifts for friends and family. Don't forget to beautifully package these products; presentation is key during the gift-giving season!

Festive Staff Incentives

Keep your team motivated during this busy season with incentives. This could be anything from performance bonuses to extra time off in January. A happy and motivated team not only provides better service but also contributes to a positive atmosphere in the salon, which clients will certainly notice and appreciate.

Winter Wonderland Décor

Transform your salon into a holiday haven. A beautifully decorated space not only delights clients but also enhances their overall experience. Consider a theme that reflects the festive season without overpowering the professional ambiance of your salon. Subtle touches like twinkling lights or elegant ornaments can make a significant impact.

Sleigh the Scheduling

Efficient scheduling is crucial during the holidays. Ensure your booking system is up-to-date and capable of handling increased traffic. Consider extending hours or adding additional staff to accommodate more appointments. Remember, a smooth and efficient booking experience is often the first impression clients have of your salon.

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Hosting Holiday Events

Consider hosting a small holiday event for loyal customers. This could be a special evening of pampering, a styling workshop, or a product launch. It’s a fantastic way to show appreciation to your regulars and also a unique marketing opportunity to showcase your salon’s services and products.

Merry and Bright Customer Service

Exceptional customer service is always in season, but it’s even more critical during the holidays. Train your staff to handle increased stress and high customer volumes with grace and professionalism. A warm welcome, a genuine smile, and personalized attention can turn even the busiest day into a positive experience for your clients.

Frosty the Snowman’s Recovery Tips

After a busy day, self-care is essential. Encourage your team to take breaks and relax. Whether it's a quick meditation session, a group lunch, or just a few moments of quiet, recharging is vital for maintaining high energy levels and providing the best service to clients.

Jingle All the Way with Music and Aromas

Create a holiday ambiance with music and scents. A carefully selected playlist of holiday tunes and the subtle scent of pine or cinnamon can elevate the mood. However, be mindful of volume and fragrance intensity to ensure they complement, not overwhelm, the salon experience.

Blizzard-Proof Your Business

Prepare for unexpected winter weather. Ensure your salon has a contingency plan for bad weather conditions. This could include flexible rescheduling policies or remote consultations. Being prepared shows clients that you value their safety and time.

Reflect and Project: Year-End Review

Use this time to reflect on the year's successes and challenges. Gather feedback from your team and clients to improve services. Planning for the future, setting new goals, and appreciating your team's hard work sets the tone for a prosperous new year.

In conclusion, the holiday season is more than just a busy period for salons; it’s a chance to create memorable experiences, strengthen client relationships, and set the stage for future success. By implementing these twelve tips, salon professionals can ensure their business not only survives the holiday rush but thrives in the festive spirit. Here's to a season filled with joy, prosperity, and fabulous hair!


Written by Brayton Walls
Digital Marketing and Communications Specialist