Scratching your head for a splashy way to promote your business for the holidays? Think about hosting a spa party.

Notice I advised you to THINK about it. First off, there’s nothing saying you NEED to do spa parties. It’s like sending Christmas cards. Yes it’s nice, but if it causes you more stress than it’s worth, best to let it go.

There are reasons, though, to consider doing a spa party.

Number one
Because it’s fun. For you. If the idea does not sound like fun, do not go there.

Here’s number two. When people show up at a spa party, they get to know you in a fun, relaxed environment. They get to experience your touch at a happy occasion. So they will associate you with this, and think of you when they look for an MT in the future.

Don’t kid yourself. Spa parties are work. But if you’re the kind that relishes hanging out with a group of women (I’m assuming) having fun in a unique setting, and making money at the same time, you could do worse.

Questions to ask yourself
Do you want to host the party at your studio? Charge extra if you will be the hostess, doing the setup, decorations, and providing a small gift for each participant. Would you prefer to show up at another site and simply give the foot massage, chair massage or some yummy spa service? Charge less if you will just come in, give your service, and leave, but include a fee for travel time. Whichever way you do it, have a minimum charge for a minimum number of hours.

Let me emphasize! Make sure you don’t put out all that energy for little return. You’ll end up feeling better about the whole thing if you make the money you want and need.

Gift certificate promotion
The advantage of hosting a spa party at the holidays is the opportunity it serves for selling gift certificates and/or baskets that include your gift certificates. Hint: make these pretty. Get attractive gift certificates, and package them nicely. If you want to sell baskets, include favorite oils, scents, or a microwavable heat pack.

Make it happen
Whether you announce you are hosting a spa party yourself or your availability for others’ parties, post it on your website and send out emails or postcards. Announce that this is a popular service, that you are in demand, and that people need to schedule early.

Once you have something scheduled, give the host or participants reminder calls. A pre-paid deposit helps participants follow through, too.

Have any experience with spa parties? Have questions? I would love to hear from you.