Is your salon business in need of a boost? Look for ways to get clients to interact and engage with your brand more. With the rise of experiential marketing and the continued emphasis on customer experience, hosting an open house at your salon is a proven strategy to connect with potential and existing clients.
While your advanced salon software automates marketing efforts for growth, implementing innovative strategies can help you attract and retain guests. But what does it take to plan and run a successful open house?
Read on to find beauty salon open-house ideas that can turn casual visitors into loyal customers.
What is a salon open house, and why is it effective?
An open-house event invites both your loyal customers and potential clients to experience your salon, the services you offer, and the expertise of your staff.
Today, clients are not just looking for a haircut or a color change; they want an experience. An open house provides just that — through innovative demonstrations, exclusive offers, and a welcoming atmosphere, you can create a memorable experience that keeps your salon top of mind with your guests.
With the right strategy, an open house can generate significant foot traffic, social media buzz, and new customer leads.
How to plan an open house for your salon
Define your goal
What do you want to achieve with your open house? Set clear and measurable goals, whether it's to book more services, create buzz when a new salon opens, or simply boost visibility. These goals will dictate the structure and marketing of your event.
Invite the right audience
Tailor the event to match the interests of your current and potential clients. For example, if you're a high-end salon focusing on luxury spa treatments, invite local wellness influencers to experience your services.
Promote your open house
Leverage social media, your salon management software, and traditional marketing to drum up excitement for the event.
1. Email marketing
Target your existing customer base with personalized invitations, special offers, and sneak peeks of what to expect at the event. Use email to build anticipation and encourage RSVPs to gauge attendance.
2. Social media
Build anticipation by using platforms like Instagram and Facebook to share teaser posts and behind-the-scenes looks. Create a unique hashtag for your open house and consider partnering with local influencers to reach a wider audience.
3. Website
Create a landing page on your salon website dedicated to the open house. Include all essential details, such as the date, time, and location, as well as an RSVP form or link.
4. Messaging platforms
Leverage WhatsApp and SMS to send quick, personalized messages directly to your clients' phones. Use WhatsApp to send multimedia messages, like short videos of your salon prepped for the event, and SMS for brief, compelling invites that encourage immediate action.
For existing clients, plan and send email marketing campaigns well in advance to ensure attendance. Send personalized invitations to your VIP clients and utilize Instagram and Facebook to post event teasers.
For new clients, feature the event prominently on your website and social media. Partner with local coffee shops or clothing boutiques with a similar customer base to repost your social media content and increase visibility.
Zenoti insight:
More than half of salon customers will choose a salon based on a referral from a friend or family member.
Consumer survey data, 2023
Zenoti tip:
Consider offering a special discount or free upgrade for existing guests who bring a loved one to your open house.
5 ways to create a memorable open-house experience
1. Come up with a fun theme that aligns with your brand’s identity and the value you provide. Think ‘Paradise Pamper Party’ with island-inspired decor, fruity refreshments, and tropical-themed beauty packages.
Need inspiration? Download our full Q2 2024 Marketing Calendar for key dates, campaign tips, and Zenoti insights.
2. Showcase live demonstrations of popular services, new techniques, or the use of new products. This highlights the expertise of your staff and can lead to on-the-spot bookings and product sales.
3. Set up interactive stations where guests get personalized consultations from your professionals.
4. Offer short workshops or seminars on topics that appeal to your target audience. This could range from quick hairstyling tutorials to skincare masterclasses.
5. At the end of the event, hold a raffle or giveaway with valuable prizes, such as free services, gift baskets, or beauty tools.
Beauty salon open-house ideas: a recap
An open-house event is more than just a marketing tactic – it's an investment in your salon’s future. By creating a space where guests can engage with your brand and team, you're not only promoting your services but also cultivating lasting relationships.
Whether you're a seasoned salon manager or a first-time owner, think of an open house as the springboard to launch your salon to new heights.
From live demos and strategic influencer partnerships to goodie bags and giveaways, our beauty salon open-house ideas can help you pull off a memorable experience and stay ahead of the competition.
Want to give your marketing a further boost? Learn how Zenoti salon software helps make personalized marketing simple for growing brands.
