The Sweet Spot: Selecting brands and Crafting a Branded Experience

In today's digital age, consistent email communication and online presence is essential for any salon looking to thrive.

Cue your Online Store and Client Connect emails - two features you can customize and personalize. Out with mix and match and in with all things matching, and your Online Store and Client Connect emails are here for it. 

Okay, but in all seriousness get those things synced! You can customize your Client Connect emails with the same color schemes you use for your Online Store. You like a classic vibe and went with the modern theme for your store? Get those emails matching. Your beauty biz is more edgy and you opted for color blast? Your emails can mirror that same look and feel too.

*Bonus - add your booking and salon website links to your store footer so clients have total access to everything your business offers in one place. 

By selecting color combos for both your Online Store and emails that match your salon's branding, you create a unified experience for your clients across all platforms. From vibrant hues to subtle tones, you can tailor the look and feel of your emails to align with your salon's aesthetic, creating a cohesive brand experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Whether they're receiving an email, browsing your Online Store, or visiting your salon in person, they'll encounter a consistent brand identity that resonates with them.

Moving on to…more easy stuff:

We’ve established that your Online Store is quite literally a virtual extension of your beauty business, so it’s crucial to make it reflect your brand's vibe. 

But here's the catch: there's no one-size-fits-all solution for every salon or spa pro out there. That’s why it’s essential to tailor the experience as much as you can to match what you envision for your clients. Another simple step you can take to do this is curating the brands you offer in your Online Store in a thoughtful way.

To get you started on the right foot, we asked our Success team what they would suggest for selecting brands for your Online Store. Here’s what they had to say:

TIP 1: Keep it Simple

Remember, less is more. Stick to the brands you know and adore. Many salons mirror their in-salon offerings for their Online Store - smart move. This way, whether clients shop in-person or online, they get the same goodies. And if you ever run out of stock for a product, your Online Store swoops in to save the day.

Why fewer brands? Well, think about your client’s journey. Too many choices can lead to decision fatigue. Think choosing cereal in the cereal aisle.

But if you offer only the brands you genuinely believe in and cover all hair types and styling needs, you're golden. No need to overwhelm with unnecessary options.

TIP 2: Specialize Online

Let your Online Store shine as the go-to spot for specialty products that you don’t stock in-salon. Think high-ticket items like appliances, slow-moving specialty products or even travel size smalls. By offering them exclusively online, you free up space on your salon shelves and cater to niche needs without breaking the bank.

TIP 3: Expand Your Horizons

Dip your toes into new waters by slightly broadening your retail offerings online. If your salon mainly focuses on hair products, consider adding a body care line for some variety. Or if you serve both men and women clientele, throw in a men’s styling and grooming line to cater to everyone’s needs. Yes, yes we know we said less is more earlier - so know your clientele and add these items with thought and care.

TIP 4: Let On Behalf Marketing do the heavy lifting

On Behalf is a real time saver when it comes to sharing promos and sales with clients. Simply ensure your marketing permissions are set for the distributor and brands you want to collaborate with, and voilà! You can send promotions directly to your clients on behalf of your beauty business. These emails look like they come straight from you and lead clients back to your Online Store, boosting your sales without giving up your client info. Hey, they’ll even have your booking link right at the bottom of your email!

More questions about OBM? Don’t worry - we’ve got you covered.

What are the benefits of On Behalf Marketing?

How do I set marketing permissions and settings?

How do I upload clients?

You Own Your Data

TIP 5: Lean on Us

Our team has your back every step of the way. With real-world experience in salon ownership, we understand the ins and outs of the biz. Let us help you achieve success and build a steady income with your Online Store! Schedule a 1:1 session with one of our support pros to dial in your online biz.

Let’s wrap this up with a bow: SalonInteractive makes it easy for you to create a branded experience for your clients that extends beyond the walls of your salon. With a customizable Online Store, emails that match your store color schemes, and On Behalf Marketing that share the brands you love and drives traffic to that Online Store, you can craft a cohesive and memorable brand journey that delights your clients at every turn. 

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