Expert Advice: Maximising Christmas in your salon & spa
Larissa Hodgins answers questions on planning ahead for a busy December whilst managing bookings, avoiding cancellations and keeping on top of retailing.
Christmas is one of the busiest and most lucrative times of year, but it's also a delicate balancing act as you're trying to create hype and celebration while keeping day-to-day operations smooth for your team and clients. With fully booked appointment books, managing time and retail effectively is essential.
Q: How can I make sure my appointment book stays full without chaos?
A: Rebooking is your friend. Start now by training your team to naturally encourage clients to book their next visit before leaving the salon. A simple prompt like “This treatment is best maintained monthly shall I book you in for the same time next month?” works wonders.
Interestingly, Phorest surveys show 40% of clients are happy to rebook on the spot. For those who don't, use your software to send automated rebooking emails or SMS reminders at just the right time.
Q: No-shows and cancellations are my nightmare in December so what's the solution?
A: Simply put - deposits and reminders. Taking a small deposit at booking and sending automated SMS/email reminders significantly reduces no-shows. If clients do cancel late, having a clear cancellation policy (with fees) protects your revenue and helps keep operations running smoothly.
A: Convenience is key. Make sure your online booking system is fully set up with Christmas services clearly listed. Add booking buttons to your socials, website, and salon app, so clients can book on the go. Tools like our PhorestGuest remote check-in also save time in-salon, helping your team focus on delivering a great festive experience rather than managing queues.
Q: How can I really push retail at Christmas without heavy discounting?
A: Think bundles and added value. Create festive hampers or gift sets that combine bestsellers with slower movers. Offer themed bundles like a curly hair kits, self-care sets or skincare solutions that make gifting feel thoughtful.
Instead of cutting prices, add value: think complimentary mini treatments, deluxe samples or a gift voucher with purchase.
Q: Should I be focusing on my online store too?
A: Absolutely. More customers than ever want to shop online and Google searches for “Christmas gifts” start as early as July. Audit your online store, upload hampers or sets early and make sure stock levels and delivery options are up to date.
Don't forget digital gift vouchers as they're a popular last-minute lifesaver for clients.
Q: Any final advice for keeping team morale high?
A: Have fun with it. Celebrate wins, decorate the salon, get your team and clients involved in festive cheer. A happy, motivated team delivers a better client experience, which is the best gift you can give your business as you head into the New Year.
By planning early, leaning on your software and making retail a priority, you can turn Christmas from stressful to successful, while giving clients the service and shopping experience they'll remember long after the decorations come down.
Larissa Hodgins is Phorest People Program Manager for Phorest Salon Software.
