As people start to bundle up and think less about their summer glow, early fall can often be a slower season in the tanning business. But with Halloween just around the corner, it’s a prime time to attract new customers and keep your regulars coming back with creative and festive promotions.

Here’s how to make the most of the Halloween season and drive traffic to your salon:

1. Create Themed Tanning Packages

One of the easiest ways to attract attention during Halloween is by offering themed tanning packages. These packages could combine multiple sessions at a discounted rate, making them attractive to clients looking to maintain their tan into the colder months. Get creative with the names—think “Witch’s Warmth” or “Pumpkin Spice Glow.” Themed packages make your offerings more memorable and can give your marketing a fun, seasonal twist.

Action Steps:

• Bundle services like UV tanning, spray tanning, and aftercare products.
• Set a limited time for these packages to create urgency.
• Promote these packages across all marketing channels.

2. Run Spray Tan Specials

Halloween is a time when people want to look their best for parties and events, making it the perfect opportunity to push spray tanning services. Offer a discount on spray tans for clients who book sessions throughout October. You could also introduce a “Trick or Treat” deal where clients draw for a discount or a free product after their session.

Action Steps:

• Create a special offer for multiple spray tan sessions leading up to Halloween.
• Introduce a “Trick or Treat” draw where clients can win discounts or free products.
• Collaborate with local costume shops to offer joint discounts and cross-promote.

3. Host a Costume Contest

Engage your clients with a Halloween costume contest, where they can showcase their tan along with their creativity. Encourage them to share their photos on social media, tagging your salon for a chance to win a free tanning package or premium skincare products. This not only drives engagement but also serves as free promotion for your salon.

Action Steps:

• Set up a contest with clear rules and attractive prizes.
• Promote the contest heavily on social media and within your salon.
• Encourage participants to tag your salon in their social media posts.

4. Offer Special Membership Deals

October is an excellent time to attract new clients with special membership promotions. Offer a “Boo-tiful Bronze” membership deal where new sign-ups receive a discounted rate for the first few months. You can also reward your loyal clients by offering them free upgrades or bonus sessions, keeping them coming back throughout the colder months.

Action Steps:

• Design a promotional membership offer with a clear start and end date.
• Consider adding a referral bonus where existing members can bring a friend for a discount.
• Market the membership offer in-salon, on your website, and through email campaigns.

5. Leverage Social Media Marketing

Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your Halloween specials. Create a content calendar filled with Halloween-themed posts, stories, and promotions. Share tanning tips, showcase client results, and provide costume ideas that highlight how a tan can enhance their look.

Action Steps:

• Plan a social media content calendar for October, focusing on Halloween themes.
• Use hashtags like #SpooktacularTan and #HalloweenGlow to increase reach.
• Engage with followers by asking them to share their Halloween looks and tag your salon.

6. Host a “Haunted Happy Hour”

To bring in clients during off-peak hours, consider hosting a “Haunted Happy Hour” where tanning services are offered at a discount. This can be particularly effective for those who have flexible schedules. Create a festive atmosphere in the salon with Halloween decorations and offer small treats to enhance the experience.

Action Steps:

• Identify slower hours and create a special offer during these times.
• Decorate your salon with Halloween themes.
• Promote the “Haunted Happy Hour” through in-salon signage, social media, and email.

Halloween is a fantastic time to inject some fun and creativity into your tanning salon’s promotions. By offering themed packages, engaging customers with contests, and leveraging social media, you can boost your business during a typically slower season. With a little planning and a lot of festive spirit, your salon can become the go-to spot for anyone looking to glow this Halloween. Start implementing these strategies now to ensure your salon shines all October long!