Make The Most Of Your Black Friday and Small Business Saturday!

With the holidays right around the corner, Black Friday and Small Business Saturday are golden opportunities for salons and independent stylists to boost revenue, connect with new clients, and build loyalty with existing ones. These events offer a chance to showcase your expertise, celebrate the power of local businesses, and give clients a holiday experience they won’t forget. Here’s how to make the most of these peak shopping days, stand out in your community, and set your salon up for a successful holiday season!

1. Start Marketing Early to Build Excitement

The key to a successful Black Friday and Small Business Saturday is planning and early promotion. Think of these days as the "Super Bowl" of holiday shopping for small businesses. Make your announcements early to ensure your clients know you’re participating, what to expect, and when to visit.

Early Marketing Tips:

Social Media Countdown: Create a countdown on Instagram or Facebook, sharing sneak peeks of the deals you’ll offer.
Tease the Deals: Drop hints about discounts or bundles that will be available. Consider using Instagram Stories or Reels to showcase products, talk about services, or build excitement around your salon.
Email Marketing: Send out an exclusive early-bird email to your client list. Emails allow you to communicate directly with existing clients who may already be loyal to your services.

2. Create Attractive Packages and Service Bundles

One of the best ways to attract clients is by bundling popular services or products together at a special price. Not only does this add value, but it can also encourage clients to try new services they may not have considered otherwise.

Bundle Ideas for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday:

Holiday Glam Packages: Offer a “Get Holiday Ready” bundle with a haircut, color, and blowout. Add-ons like a conditioning treatment or eyebrow shaping can increase value.
Giftable Product Sets: Bundle top products (think shampoos, conditioners, and styling tools) into festive, pre-wrapped gift sets.
Self-Care Packages: Combine a scalp massage, haircut, and hydrating treatment for clients looking for a little pampering.

3. Reward Loyal Clients with VIP Deals

Your existing clients are likely to be your most enthusiastic shoppers. Give them a reason to come back by offering loyalty discounts or early access to your deals.

VIP Tips:

Exclusive Early Access: Let loyal clients shop an hour before your deals go live or send them a unique promo code for early online access.
Gift with Purchase: Reward higher-spending clients with a free product, such as a travel-size shampoo, conditioner, or styling tool.
Membership Discounts: If you offer a membership or VIP program, give members an additional discount on top of the Black Friday or Small Business Saturday deals.

4. Embrace the Small Business Spirit on Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is a chance to celebrate the unique value small, local businesses bring to the community. Use this opportunity to show clients why supporting local matters and highlight your unique services and products.

Small Business Saturday Ideas:

Partner with Other Local Businesses: Cross-promote with nearby businesses by offering discounts or incentives for clients who shop at multiple local stores. For example, team up with a local café or boutique to create a “shop small” experience.
Special Offers for First-Time Clients: Encourage new customers to give your salon a try by offering a one-time discount or add-on service.
Share Your Story: Post about your journey as an independent stylist or small business owner. Let clients know how much their support means to you and the local economy. People love knowing that their money is going towards a business with heart and a story.

5. Offer Flash Sales and Limited-Time Discounts

Create a sense of urgency with time-limited offers. Flash sales are a great way to boost excitement and encourage clients to book appointments or make purchases before the deal ends.

Flash Sale Ideas:

Hourly Flash Sales: Run different offers each hour throughout the day. For example, from 10-11 a.m., offer 20% off all styling products, then switch to a discounted service or package for the next hour.
Limited Edition Services: Offer “Black Friday-only” services that aren’t available at any other time, such as special treatment add-ons or holiday styling packages.
Early Bird Specials: For clients who book in advance or arrive early, offer an extra perk, such as an additional discount, free samples, or a complimentary styling product.

6. Use Social Media to Promote Last-Minute Deals

Social media is your best friend during these busy shopping days. Keep clients engaged by sharing live updates, highlighting products, and showcasing deals throughout the day.

Social Media Tips:

Instagram Live and Stories: Go live to answer questions, show off products, or highlight any last-minute deals. Instagram Stories are also great for engaging clients with limited-time polls, countdowns, and links to your website or booking page.
Client Highlights: Ask clients if you can share before-and-after photos, or even quick videos showing their excitement over your holiday deals!
Behind-the-Scenes Content: Give clients a peek behind the scenes to see your team preparing for the big days. Show off your salon’s holiday decor, share styling tips, or give a tour of your seasonal product lineup.

7. Simplify Gift Shopping for Your Clients

During the holiday season, clients are often looking for quick and easy gift solutions. Make gift-giving a breeze by offering pre-made gift baskets, gift cards, and holiday promotions. Shop Maly’s @ManocoBlue for holiday gift sets.

Holiday Gift Ideas:

Gift Cards: Promote gift cards as a go-to gift for friends or family members. Consider offering a small bonus gift card or discount with larger purchases.
Pre-Wrapped Gift Sets: Display curated gift sets with top-selling products. A well-packaged bundle of styling products, a small brush, or a holiday-themed accessory can be a perfect, easy-to-grab gift.
Online Sales: If you have an online store, extend your Black Friday and Small Business Saturday deals for those who prefer shopping online. Promote these deals on your website and social media.

8. Keep Clients Coming Back with After-Holiday Deals

Don’t let the connection end with Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. Use this time to set the stage for continued loyalty by offering clients reasons to return after the holidays.

After-Holiday Promotions:

New Year’s Bounce Back: Give clients a coupon or discount they can use for a January or February appointment. This can help fill up your calendar during slower winter months.
Holiday Recovery Treatments: Promote January as a time to rejuvenate hair with conditioning or color-refresh treatments.
Thank You Cards: Send a handwritten thank you or a holiday card to express your gratitude. Clients will appreciate the personal touch, and it’s an excellent way to remind them to book with you again.

Final Thoughts

Black Friday and Small Business Saturday are perfect opportunities to create excitement, increase revenue, and strengthen connections with both new and returning clients. With some strategic planning, early marketing, and creative promotions, you can make these days a memorable experience for your clients while also boosting your business.

Remember, the key to a successful holiday season is making clients feel appreciated, offering unique value, and showing why your salon is the go-to destination in your community. Here’s to making Black Friday and Small Business Saturday a fantastic success!

How Salons and Independent Stylists Can Make the Most of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday