The Value of Gift Cards in the Salon

10/20/2025 • By STAFF

With the holiday season right around the corner, it’s time we talk about one of the biggest game changers you can add into your strategy: gift cards.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Really? Gift cards?” And my answer is a big, ummm YES!

In the beauty industry, gift cards are one of the smartest, most profitable moves you can make—especially during the holidays. Let me tell you why I love them so much…

Instant Revenue Boost

When someone buys a gift card, you get that cash flow right away. That’s money in your account before the service is even booked—helping you prep for the new year and smooth out those slower winter months.

The Best Client Acquisition Tool

Behind every gift card is more than a sale—it’s an opportunity. Here’s the scoop: 25% of gift card redemptions in beauty come from brand-new clients.

That means every card is basically an invitation for someone to become your new regular. Think of it as your client referral program, all wrapped up in a bow.

They Spend More Than the Card Value

This one is my favorite: 61% of people spend more than their gift card when they redeem it—on average, about $31.75 extra. [1] So that $100 gift card? It usually turns into a $130+ ticket. Hello, additional revenue.

Easy to Promote & Hard to Resist

Buy $100, Get $20 Free.

Clients LOVE a deal, and suddenly they’re not just shopping for gifts… they’re treating themselves, too.

Built-In Referrals

Your loyal clients already adore you, and gift cards give them the perfect way to share you with their friends and family. It’s basically them saying, “I love my stylist/spa, and you need to try them too.” That’s the kind of marketing you just can’t buy.

Bottom Line

Gift cards aren’t just a holiday add-on—they’re a holiday power move. They give you:

Instant revenue
A flood of new clients
Higher average tickets
And built-in word-of-mouth marketing

So don’t sleep on them this season. Promote them. Bundle them. Shout about them from the rooftops (or at least on your socials). Because trust me: gift cards will change your holiday game.

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