Yes, we know the leaves haven’t even started turning yet and many of us are still revelling in the last vestiges of summer, but before you know it, Christmas decorations will be going up and the shops will be playing festive jingles!

We’re not suggesting you should start blaring out a Christmas playlist yet, but it’s not too early to start planning your festive activity.

Think about arranging a client evening where you can introduce clients to the services you offer from blow-dry menus, perfect for party season, to full-on colour changes for those wanting to enter Christmas and the New Year with a bang. Speak to other local businesses and see if you can collaborate – a local deli may be able to supply the food at a good rate in return for the exposure, for example, of you could tie in with a fashion boutique for a mini party-looks fashion show. These collaborations could lead to working relationships that last well beyond the festive season.

Major manufactures will start to release their festive gift packs in October, and you’ll need to create a prominent display to encourage impulse purchases, and also let clients know where they can come for some stocking fillers nearer to the big day. Why not put a team member in charge of festive stock and displays. Ask them to draw up a plan for when the display should go up, and ways to encourage sales. Responsibility can be a great motivator!

Also think about ways to reward you loyal clients over the festive season, whether it’s a voucher for a free of discounted service, sent via email or text, or a physical Christmas card thanking them for their custom, with a voucher for them and a friend. This way they feel valued and you may gain some extra clients.

It may seem early, but think how busy you get in the weeks running up to Christmas. Have a plan in place well in advance, and you’ll take a lot of stress out of the holiday season, for yourself, your team and your clients.