The Check-In Newsletter - Oct 1, 2025: October marketing ideas
This is a pivotal time to boost revenue, embrace the fun of the spooky season, and strategically prepare for the busy holiday period ahead.
A new month brings fresh energy and the final stretch of the year. This is a pivotal time to boost revenue, embrace the fun of the spooky season, and strategically prepare for the busy holiday period ahead.
Industry Insights
Should you pass on credit card fees to customers? A guide to surcharges
Are you considering passing credit card processing fees to guests? What may seem like a small adjustment for clients can provide significant financial relief for your business. But is it the right move for you? We have a complete breakdown of how it works, what customers think, and how to make the switch.
Explore salon and spa surcharging
The Pulse Point
73% of clients report they would be willing to pay more for a personalized service. If you are looking for a revenue boost this October, leverage an all-in-one software platform that makes personalization easy at every touch point.
Test Your Knowledge
When upgrading your tools to include the latest tech, it can be hard to meet the preferences of every demographic. While younger clients adapt quickly, older guests are also embracing AI as it gets easier to use.
Quiz: Which age group is leading the way in salon and spa AI adoption?
A) 18–29 year olds
B) 30-44 year olds
C) 45-60 year olds
Think you know the answer? Scroll down to find out!
Growth Tip of the Week
48% of wellness providers lost long-term clients in 2025. So, how do you keep loyal clients coming back? Loyalty and rewards programs are the top retention practice to prevent client turnover and revenue loss, with 70% of clients reporting their effectiveness.
Source: 2025 Wellness Loyalty Survey, Zenoti
New and trending in...
Beauty and Wellness
Rewards or regrets? Unpacking the 2025 wellness loyalty gap
Client loyalty may feel strong...until it's not. So, why do loyal clients leave? And (more importantly) how can you encourage them to stay? Our 2025 Wellness Loyalty Survey shares what clients are really thinking when they walk away, alongside actionable business insights on how to win them back.
Salons
AI receptionists vs. call answering systems: Key differences for salons
After dealing with awkward, frustrating call bots, it’s easy to see why salons might be hesitant to try AI receptionists. Explore the differences between these options to find the right front desk solution for you.
Spas
October marketing guide for spas: Key dates and campaign ideas
Create warm, inviting promotions with these October marketing ideas for spa businesses. Leverage cozy fall treatments and seasonal upgrades to help boost bookings all month long.
Barbershops
Barbershop campaign ideas for October
Are you looking for ways to boost revenue before the holiday season? Now is the time to ramp up marketing efforts. Explore fresh campaign ideas to help your barbershop stand out this October.
Fitness
How AI can help keep gym classes full
Gym class cancellations and no-shows can impact your bottom line while interrupting the flow of your classes. With the right gym management software, you can use AI to boost attendance and reduce cancellations.
Marketing Corner
Seasonal ideas for your business
October 10 is World Mental Health Day — a reminder to check in on your community and your team. Consider running special offers to support clients or sharing helpful resources — small steps can make a big difference in helping your community and establishing your business as a go-to getaway.
Want more timely tips, ideas, and inspiration? Start planning now for your strongest quarter yet with the new Q4 2025 marketing calendar:
View the Q4 2025 marketing calendar
Test Your Knowledge: Answer Reveal:
C) 44-60 year olds are leading the way in AI adoption, with 62% reporting they are very comfortable with AI tools. If your business fears that middle-aged clients can't keep up with an AI receptionist, rest assured, they are setting the pace.
*Source: 2025 Salon and Spa Consumer Survey, Zenoti
Thanks for reading
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