The Check-In Newsletter - Jan 7, 2026: Must-know marketing tips for 2026

Check in to see how other Wellness Brands are winning and thriving. Check out with the insights you need to grow yours.

Happy Wednesday! As we step into 2026 and teams move from reflection to execution, now is the ideal time to sharpen your messaging and align on priorities for the months ahead. This edition brings together practical insights and fresh ideas to help you build momentum early in the year and turn planning into real results.
In 2025, 48% of wellness brands lost loyal clients. If that number feels uncomfortably close to home, you’re not alone. The good news? With the right data and strategies, you can rebuild trust, deepen loyalty, and keep your clients coming back in 2026.
Unpack 2026 loyalty strategies
If increasing revenue through retail sales is a goal this year, it may be time to refresh your team’s upselling skills. After all,78% of salon and spa clients say they purchase a recommended product, at least sometimes.
Personalization is a proven revenue driver for beauty and wellness businesses, especially when connecting with Gen Z. Clients increasingly value (and expect) tailored experiences — and many are willing to pay a premium for them.
Quiz: What percentage of Gen Z clients say they would pay more for personalized service?
A) 58%
B) 62%
C) 74%
D) 81%
Think you know the answer? Scroll down to find out!
New year, new you? As the pace naturally slows after the holidays, now is the perfect time to refresh your business for 2026. From social media bios to directory listings, ensure your online presence is up-to-date and truly showcases everything your business has to offer. Even one small update per week can put you in a strong position to capture more appointments in the busy spring season.
The Q1 2026 Beauty and Wellness Marketing Calendar

Start the year strong with a marketing calendar tailored to your business. The Q1 Beauty and Wellness Marketing Calendar can help fill your books and take the pressure off campaign planning, so you can focus on serving your clients while building real momentum for the year ahead.
The ultimate January marketing guide for salons

Start the year strong with thoughtful January marketing ideas that support your salon’s goals and set the tone for the months ahead.
Improve salon marketing
How to leverage medspa gift card sales as a high-ROI marketing channel

Learn how to turn medspa gift card users into loyal, long-term clients to drive stronger retention and year-round revenue.
Leverage medspa gift cards
How to convert spa gift card users into members

As holiday gift cards bring new guests through your doors, learn how to convert them into long-term members with strategic follow-ups and frictionless booking.
Boost spa memberships
January marketing ideas for gyms

Turn New Year’s resolutions into measurable results with January gym marketing campaigns that motivate renewal, consistency, and real transformation.
Gym marketing ideas
Seasonal ideas for your business
January 17 is National Use Your Gift Card Day — an ideal moment to drive appointments and inspire new clients to book. Launch campaigns with a special add-on or incentive for new gift card users, or simply remind them to book an appointment rather than letting their gift go to waste.
Want more timely tips, ideas, and inspiration?
View the Q1 2026 marketing calendar
D) 81% of Gen Z clients say they would pay more for personalized services. As you plan changes for the new year, now may be the time to launch a fresh personalization strategy.
Source: Wellness Loyalty Gap Survey, Zenoti, 2025
That's all for today, but we will check back with more updates and growth insights in just two weeks!

Written by
Cheryl Cole, Managing Editor
Cheryl uses her background in journalism to help brands bring their unique stories to life. Passionate about content strategy, she has extensive experience leading both print and digital publications. As managing editor of The Check-In, Cheryl is committed to providing wellness professionals with high-quality, tailored content designed to help grow their brands.
Learn more about Cheryl Cole
Reviewed by
Emily Holzer, Content Specialist
Combining a passion for writing, data, and helping small businesses thrive, Emily loves building resources that lift beauty and wellness professionals higher. She has spent the last three years dedicated to researching and creating tools for salons, spas, medspas, barbershops, and gyms. Her specialties include marketing, AI, and automation. \r
Learn more about Emily Holzer