Your December Playbook: 7 High-Impact Moves to Finish the Year Strong
December isn’t just the final chapter of the year—it’s the bridge into a strong and profitable start to 2026. With the right strategy, this month can boost revenue, strengthen client relationships, and set your salon up for its best Q1 yet. This December Playbook breaks down seven simple, high-impact moves that are easy to execute and guaranteed to create momentum—no matter your salon size or market. Let’s finish the year strong.
1. Run a “Giftable Glow” Promotion
Consumers are in gift-buying mode all month long. Make tanning + wellness a no-brainer present.
Try this:
• Bundle a $50 gift card + lotion packet for $40
• Create “Glow Gift Bags” with accessories, packets, or minis
• Offer BOGO 50% off on self-tanning or skincare retail
Why it works:
Gift cards bring revenue now and visits later. Gift bundles increase perceived value and move retail—fast.
2. Launch a “Finish the Year Bronze” Upgrade Push
Clients attending holiday events want to look and feel amazing.
Easy wins:
• Free upgrade with purchase
• “Upgrade Week” with daily specials
• Add a $5 upgrade option to every visit
Pro tip: Promote this aggressively on social—December tanning decisions are quick and emotional.
3. Use December to Pre-Sell 2026 Memberships
People are already thinking about New Year's goals. Tap into that mindset.
Options:
• Buy a 2026 membership now, get December free
• Lock in 2025 rates before they increase
• Include a bonus lotion packet with all renewals
Why it works:
This creates immediate cash flow and sets you up for a strong January without starting from zero.
4. Refresh Your Retail Area for Holiday Shopping
A simple reset can increase retail sales by 20–40%.
Make it obvious & irresistible:
• Add signage: “Stocking Stuffers Under $20.”
• Put tanning packets in a gold bowl near checkout
• Place facial products and SPF at eye level
• Feature self-tanning as a year-round essential
People buy what they see—so show off the goods.
5. Train Your Staff for a “Confident Close.”
December is one of the easiest months for retail and membership sales.
Teach quick scripts like:
• “Are you doing any holiday parties? Want help choosing the perfect upgrade?”
• “If you’re gifting this, do you want me to wrap it for you?”
• “Most customers pair this with ___ for even better results.”
Why now:
A tuned-up team = higher average ticket every single day.
6. Email Your Entire Database Before December 20th
One GREAT email can shift your entire month.
Your December email should include:
✔ Your gift card promo
✔ Your retail bundles
✔ A special thank-you message
✔ Your holiday hours
✔ A soft reminder about upgrading or renewing memberships
Don’t overthink it—just send it. December emails get high open rates because people expect deals and updates.
7. Start Prepping for January TODAY
Your competition will wait until January 1st to get organized. You won’t.
Prep now:
• Restock lotions, packets, and sunless
• Prep signage for New Year promotions
• Finalize your January membership special
• Schedule staff training
• Do a deep clean of the salon (especially beds + flooring)
Your January success is determined in December. Start strong—don’t scramble.
Final Thought: December Momentum = January Money
This month matters. A lot. The revenue you generate now + the clients you excite now = the energy you carry into 2026. You don’t need complicated strategies—just consistent, high-impact actions. And remember: you’re not alone in this. We’re here to help you finish strong, stay stocked, stay trained, and stay competitive. Here’s to a powerful end to the year and an even brighter, bronzer 2026.