![Tanning Salon: how to post engaging content [content idea list]](http://onlineyougrow.com/cdn/shop/articles/cov-marketing-plan-8_9b00ba0d-8637-4527-b60f-a29eaf4a3105.png?v=1715865634&width=1100)
Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that the best tanning salons in the world use strategically to attract clients.
We know you're busy running your tanning salon and the thought of managing social media might feel like another burden.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring a couple of new clients to your salon.
To help you out we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for tanning salon owners.
Get the content idea list made for tanning salon owners
A lot of tanning salons manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for a tanning salon
We have studied dozens of tanning salons’ social media accounts when building our strategy pack for tanning salons - here is what seems to always work.
| Content Type | Why It Works to Get New Customers in Your Tanning Salon |
|---|---|
| Before-and-After Photos | Visually appealing transformations can make potential customers excited about the results they can achieve, encouraging them to visit the salon. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Showcasing the salon, tanning beds, and preparation processes builds trust and creates a connection with the audience. |
| Customer Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from real customers provide social proof and encourage others to try the salon. |
| Specials and Promotions | Announcing limited-time offers, discounts, and package deals can attract new customers looking for value. |
| User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by customers (photos, reviews) engages the community and adds authenticity. |
| Local Collaborations | Partnering with local influencers or businesses can introduce the salon to a broader, local audience. |
| Event Announcements | Promoting upcoming events, such as tanning parties or special promotions, can attract new visitors interested in unique experiences. |
| Seasonal and Holiday Posts | Highlighting seasonal tanning packages or holiday specials can attract customers looking for special deals during those times. |
| Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to visit. |
| Skin Care Tips | Sharing tips on how to care for skin before and after tanning can engage followers who are interested in maintaining healthy skin. |
| Daily Specials Updates | Regularly updating followers with daily specials keeps the salon top-of-mind and encourages spontaneous visits. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Staff Stories | Featuring stories about the staff members creates a personal connection and humanizes the brand. |
| Tanning Tips | Sharing tips and tricks for achieving the perfect tan can engage followers who are tanning enthusiasts. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting sustainable practices or eco-friendly products appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. |
| Customer Spotlights | Featuring regular customers creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
| Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into customers. |
Some tanning salons make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best tanning salons in the world. Replicate them now!
How can tanning salon owners make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality photos and videos of your tanning salon are essential.
People tan with their eyes first. Make sure the lighting is good, the salon looks clean, and the presentation is inviting.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free social media planner for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your tanning salon. Behind-the-scenes photos, staff stories, and customer shoutouts can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential customers excited, highlight any special offers, events, or seasonal promotions. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new customers.
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your tanning salon’s “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to conduct marketing for your tanning salon, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for salon owners.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week taking photos, recording videos, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A photo on Instagram can be a post on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage customers to share their own photos and tag your tanning salon. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for tanning salons on social media
Our team has crafted a list of highly specific, budget-friendly content ideas tailored for tanning salons, complete with practical tips to keep costs low and maximize your social media presence.
Consider incorporating some of these ideas into your tanning salon's marketing plan.
| Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
|---|---|
| Smartphone Tan Photos | Utilize natural light by taking photos near windows during the day. Enhance images with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
| Customer Testimonials | Encourage satisfied clients to record a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a free tanning session or product as a thank-you. |
| User-Generated Content | Motivate customers to share their tanning results by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your salon on Instagram. |
| DIY Tanning Tips Videos | Film short, simple tanning tips using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your salon's daily operations or introduce the team during slow hours. |
| Special Offers Posts | Create simple, eye-catching graphics for special offers using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and an appealing photo. |
| Staff Spotlights | Feature staff members with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in the salon. |
| Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their favorite tanning products or suggestions for new services. |
| Local Event Promotions | Collaborate with local events by offering a small discount or coupon. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
| Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in local charity events or partnerships with community organizations. |
| Customer Spotlights | Highlight loyal customers with their favorite tanning services. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their experience at your salon. |
| Salon Ambiance Photos | Create attractive settings using inexpensive items like decor, plants, and props from dollar stores. |
| Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as using energy-efficient tanning beds or eco-friendly products. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Prep | Record short clips of the salon prep work, such as cleaning beds or setting up products. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
| Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free tanning session. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free product sample. |
| Seasonal Tanning Tips | Highlight seasonal tanning tips and products using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the tips to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best tanning salons in the world!
There are tanning salons that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for tanning salons
Investing in top-notch social media content for your tanning salon might be worth it because many other places won't bother, giving you a chance to really stand out, grab people's attention, and build a loyal clientele.
| Content Type | Why It Could Bring a LOT of Customers |
|---|---|
| Virtual Tanning Tutorials | Hosting live or recorded virtual tanning tutorials where your experts teach viewers about safe tanning practices and how to achieve the perfect tan can create a sense of community and attract a global audience. |
| Interactive 360° Salon Tours | Offering virtual 360° tours of your tanning salon, including the tanning rooms and relaxation areas, can provide a unique behind-the-scenes experience and entice people to visit in person. |
| Limited Edition Tanning Packages | Creating buzz with limited edition or seasonal tanning packages available for a short time can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat customers. |
| Exclusive VIP Tanning Experience | Offering an exclusive VIP tanning experience where customers receive personalized service and premium products can create a memorable experience and word-of-mouth. |
| AR Skin Tone Preview | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology where customers can see a 3D representation of their potential tan can enhance the experience and attract tech-savvy customers. |
| Themed Tanning Events | Hosting themed tanning events, such as a beach party or a tropical getaway, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
| Tanning Challenge Contests | Organizing tanning challenge contests (e.g., achieving the best tan in a month) can create viral moments, attracting competitive tanners and spectators. |
| Collaborative Pop-Up Events | Partnering with other local beauty or wellness businesses to host pop-up events can introduce your salon to new audiences and create a buzz in the community. |
| Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about the origins of your tanning products, the benefits of tanning, or the personal journey of your staff can create an emotional connection with customers. |
| Interactive Tanning Product Selection | Allowing customers to choose tanning products for a custom experience via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to try the creations they helped design. |
| Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as using sustainable tanning products or energy-efficient equipment, can attract environmentally conscious consumers and media attention. |
| Mobile Tanning Services | Operating a mobile tanning service in different locations or at local events can expand your reach and attract new customers who may visit your main salon later. |
| Tanning Subscription Service | Offering a subscription service where customers receive monthly tanning sessions and product kits can create a loyal customer base. |
| Immersive Tanning Workshops | Hosting workshops where customers can learn advanced tanning techniques from your experts can attract beauty enthusiasts and create a sense of exclusivity. |
| Flash Mob Tanning Experiences | Organizing flash mob tanning events in unexpected locations can create viral content and attract adventurous tanners looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for tanning salons on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these ideas. We've seen many tanning salon owners make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or bring in new clients for your salon.
| Content Type | Why It Never Works for Tanning Salons | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make the salon appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real photos of your tanning beds, staff, and happy clients to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
| Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off followers. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, client testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
| Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with tanning or the salon confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on tanning, skincare, events, and related topics to maintain relevance and interest. |
| Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your salon's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your salon positively. |
| Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on tanning, community, and your salon's unique offerings. |
| Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
| Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate customers looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your customers and value their feedback. |
| Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
| Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your salon can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with local businesses, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
| Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential clients. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value customer input. |
| Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your salon seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
| Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
| Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate customers and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for customers to grasp and engage with. |
| Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your salon. |
Make your tanning salon more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best tanning salons in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your tanning salon
We understand that as a tanning salon owner, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than small businesses like yours.
The day-to-day demands of running a tanning salon are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight profit margins can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically tailored for tanning salon owners like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your tanning salon. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for small tanning salons on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your tanning salon's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your salon's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your tanning salon could make more money!
Most tanning salon owners don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.
