Why Your Salon Should Promote Christmas Gift Cards by Joe Cignetti

Christmas is honestly one of the easiest times of the year to sell gift cards, people are stressed, they’re running out of ideas, and they’re desperate for a thoughtful gift that doesn’t require them to trek through a busy shopping centre. That’s where your salon comes in.

Imagine someone standing in your reception area after their appointment. They’re feeling pretty good, their hair looks amazing, they’re relaxed, and on a bit of a self-care high. When they see a beautifully packaged gift card, it immediately clicks:
“Oh! That would be perfect for Mum… or my best friend… or my partner.”

Gift cards are an easy “yes” during this season.

But aside from being convenient, here’s why they matter so much:

They boost your revenue without adding pressure.

Even if you’re fully booked in December, gift cards allow you to make extra money now, and book services later, when business usually slows down. It spreads your revenue out beautifully.

They bring new clients through the door.

Most gift cards go to people who haven’t visited your salon before. So each card is basically a warm introduction to your services the kind that can turn into long-term, loyal clients.

People love gifting experiences.

More than ever, people prefer giving an experience instead of a random item. Self-care is huge right now, and who doesn’t love unwrapping the promise of glowing skin, fresh colour, or a relaxing treatment?

And honestly… it makes people feel good.

Clients enjoy giving your gift cards because it feels personal and luxurious, without them having to guess someone’s size or style.

? How to Promote Christmas Gift Cards

So how do you get people to buy them? It’s easier than you think — and it’s mostly about being visible, intentional, and warm.

1. Display them where people can’t miss them.

Think of gift cards like impulse buys  people need to see them.
Create a gorgeous festive little set-up near your counter. Add fairy lights, a candle, a cute bowl of candy canes… something that catches that Christmas vibe.
When people see it, it plants the idea.

2. Talk about them naturally.

You don’t need a sales pitch.
Something as simple as:

“By the way, we’ve got our Christmas gift cards available if you need any last-minute gifts.”
Staff can drop this into conversations without pressure. It feels helpful, not salesy.

3. Keep mentioning them on social media casually.

Instead of posting the same picture over and over, mix it up:

• A reel of staff packaging the gift cards
• A story saying: “Running out of gift ideas? We’ve got you.”
• A post explaining how they can be used for any service

Make it feel personal and fun  like you’re sharing something useful, not pushing a sale.

4. Offer a little bonus or bundle.

People love feeling like they’re getting extra value.
You don’t need to discount anything — even small perks work wonders:

• Buy a gift card, get a free mini treatment
• Buy $100, receive a $20 bonus for January
• Pair the gift card with a small retail sample

These little add-ons increase perceived value without cutting into your profits.

5. Make it easy to buy online.

Last-minute shoppers are your best customers  especially the ones scrolling on their phones at 10pm.
A simple “Buy Now” link for digital gift cards is a game changer.

6. Use emails and SMS — they work.

A friendly message like:

“Need a simple Christmas gift? Our salon gift cards are available in-store and online. Treat someone to a bit of pampering this year.”

Short, sweet, and incredibly effective.

7. Keep it fun and festive.

Show your excitement.
Let clients feel the holiday spirit through your team, your posts, and your salon atmosphere. People buy more when they feel good.