During this Holiday Season more than ever, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our progress possible. In this spirit we say, simply but sincerely, Thank You and Best Wishes for the Holiday Season and Happy New Year.

Our Salon 200 Entry

Salon 200 Retention and Referral Category

"The surest way to higher salon and spa profits is by building client loyalty to the brand and recruiting clients as brand ambassadors, encouraging them to bring in their friends. We invited applicants to describe all their loyalty and referral programs as they would to a new client, including hot they would encourage that client to prebook her next appointment. Extra credit was awarded to salons and spas that offered data that demonstrated the value of these programs to the salon’s future business." Salon Today Magazine"



Here is the question we were required to answer as a contestant in the Retention and Referral category.

QUESTION: 
I'm a new, walk-in client who just experienced her first service in your salon/spa. Educate me on all the client programs your business has available. (Even if you wouldn't reveal all this to client on her first visit.) Explain to me how your loyalty program rewards my positive behavior. Tell me what happens if I refer my family and friends to the salon. Explain how your staff is encouraged to pre-book my next appointment. Then tell me about the overall impact these programs have on your business.

We have written a script, which represents the closing of a sale by our guest services team. We refer to our guest as “Grace Guest” and our guest service representative as "Rosie Receptionist".

Rosie Receptionist:
Hello Grace, how was your service and experience at Salon Central today? I hope we exceeded your expectations.

Grace Guest:
My service was wonderful thank you.  I am very pleased and I feel like a million bucks!

Rosie Receptionist:
I’m so happy hear that. Just to let you know… your stylist recommends that your next color touch-up and haircut should be in 5 weeks. We would love to reserve a time for you that is convenient for your schedule. If we make that reservation today, we can insure that!  We know your time is valuable and we want to accommodate your needs.
We also have an on-line concierge service that will enable you to communicate with the salon via email.  If you make your next reservation today, you will receive an email reminder one week before your reservation. Then you will receive another email two days before, with an option to confirm your reservation online. This way if your schedule should change, you have plenty of time to find another convenient time to come in.  We will also occasionally send emails with special offers, information about product launches and special events.

Grace Guest:
I would love to schedule my next reservation in 5 weeks. I get off early on Thursdays and the 3:00 time frame works great for me. Let's schedule it now! I will put it in my calendar!

Rosie Receptionist:
Great! Also, all of our new guests receive a gift bag, which we call our "New Client Kit". Inside are valuable vouchers for return visits to our salon. For example; a complimentary deep conditioning treatment, discounts on retail products and future color services. There is also a special offer with our esthetician for your first facial and waxing, as well as product samples. If you would like, you may use your retail voucher today. FYI... this bag has about $100 of savings inside!

Grace Guest:
I will absolutely use my voucher for retail products today, $10 off 2 products is so generous. Thank you so much for the gift, I love presents!

Rosie Receptionist:
In case you didn't know Grace, if you "like" us on Facebook today, and use your mobile app to check in at our salon, you can choose from our basket of travel size products every time you visit us! We also frequently post special offers for our Facebook fans, therefore we urge you to follow us! We are also found on Twitter, Pinterest and Tumblr and you can check out our Salon Central Blogspot.

Grace Guest:
Wow that’s awesome! If you show me how to check in on Facebook I will definitely do it every time I'm at the salon. I love these travel sizes they are so convenient.

Rosie Receptionist:
We are so happy that you enjoyed your experience with us today and we encourage you to recommend your friends, co-workers and family members to visit us for their beauty needs. We have a Referral Program, where in fact, for every new guest you send us, we will in turn offer you a free haircut. Here is a card with your name, and your stylists name on it, so when someone asks you... where do you get your hair done, you can just hand them this referral card!

Grace Guest:
That is so easy. In fact there are a lot of women in my office looking for a new salon close by.  I will be getting a lot of free haircuts!

Rosie Receptionist:
We also have a Salon Central loyalty program.  You will accumulate points on every visit to the salon starting today. Points are based on your service and retail purchases. You will receive 1 point for every $50 spent in the salon. Once you reach 100 points you will receive a $20 gift card to use in our salon however you like!

Grace Guest:
If I understand correctly, you are tracking my purchases and giving me points on every visit, and when I have 20 points I will receive a gift card for $20, to use on anything in the salon? Wow, that's amazing!

Rosie Receptionist:
Grace, it was a great pleasure meeting you and having you as a guest in our salon today. Thank you so much for giving Salon Central a try. Your hair looks beautiful. We look forward to seeing you on your next visit. Until then, take care!

Over all impact:
If you look at our numbers, it is apparent that the systems we've put into place have created excellent guest loyalty and helped in our overall retention rate. We remain consistent with the implementation of these systems on a daily basis and by holding regular team meetings. Retail sales, guest retention and pre-booking are a major theme at these meetings. Our guests clearly understand and utilize our systems, as they are well defined and efficient. This is a key factor in the success of our client retention.  Exceeding our guest’s expectations is a collective goal.

Slow Down...Take An Hour For Yourself.

Just $75 For our Signature Facial.

I am honored and excited to announce that Salon Central has been named winner in the Salon 200's Retention and Referral category.

The magazine's 17th annual SALON TODAY 200 issue will profile Salon Central in their January 2014 edition. 

The 200 salons were selected for their best business practices from applications submitted by SALON TODAY readers like myself, who represent the 25,000 top-producing salons and spas in North America.

Off I will go to New Orleans to accept my award January 20th, 2014. Look for our press release on our blog soon after. 

Gail Cohen/Owner Salon Central :)

Even Karl Lagerfeld Agrees You Should Call Us...

BLACK FRIDAY DEALS AT SALON CENTRAL

20% OFF SERVICES AND RETAIL PURCHASES, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

*THIS OFFER IS ONLY VALID WITH SELECT SERVICE PROVIDERS AND CAN NOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS.

*YOU MUST PRINT AND BRING THIS OFFER WITH YOU TO RECEIVE THIS DISCOUNT.

*YOU MUST MENTION THIS PROMO WHEN MAKING YOUR RESERVATION.

*VALID ON NOVEMBER 29, 2013 ONLY, NOT VALID TOWARDS RESERVATIONS PREVIOUSLY SCHEDULED.

November's Top 10 Selling Hair Care Products 
At Salon Central we recommend only the best products which will protect your hair color from fading and make your styling at home effortless and flawless. 

#1-2 Redken Color Extend Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo And Conditioner for color treated hair, protects hair color from fading and UVA/UVB ray protection. Redken's Color Extend shampoo is an award winning product that maximizes color vibrancy while strengthening hair. Discover all the benefits of these products for color treated hair and improve your hair's appearance and manageability.

#3 Redken Forceful Super Strength Finishing Spray

Strong hold finishing spray with ultimate strength, lasting lift, shape memory and frizz-free shine. Anti humidity finishing spray, now with a fresh new scent!

#4-5 Pureology Hydrate System Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner

Gently cleanse and moisturize hair while protecting vibrancy with this luxurious, concentrated daily hydrating system. Gently cleanse and condition without stripping color.

#6 Pureology's Silk Bodifier Volumizing Mousse

Infuse hair with volume, shine and softness while protecting and maximizing the vibrancy 

of color treated hair. This is a rich conditioning mousse with award winning hold.

#7 Pureology's Levitation Mist

Menthol infused invigorating spray infuses hair with 24 hours of magnificent volume. Boosts hair at the roots for lasting lift, fullness and shine while protecting color vibrancy.

#8 Pureology Super Smooth Relaxing Serum

This light weight serum smooths flyways as you blow-dry while intensifying natural shine. Adds long lasting smoothness and style memory while maximizing color retention.

#9 Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer

For intensifying curls, taming frizz and heightening shine. Wheat protein blend expands when hair is wet-then retracts when hair is dry-to lock in curls or waves. This product boosts shine, intensifies curl and tames frizz. 

#10 Aveda Phomollient Styling Foam

Aveda's patented formula-which includes certified organic honey, burdock and marshmallow root-creates weightless volume on fine and medium hair. Adds shine without build-up or weight. Uses air-infused technology.

Just make a reservation for anytime in January and February of next year and automatically be entered to win a years supply of haircare by Redken 5th Avenue.

Holidays 2013

Gearing Up For Holiday Season 2013

With Hanukkah just around the corner, we had to get ready for the holidays super early this year. Stop buy to see our exciting gift display 2013. We've got something for everyone, in prices ranging from $10-$150. 

*OPI and Essie Nail Polish Sets 
*Redken Sets for Men & Women
*Pureology Special Addition Sets 
*Aveda Calming and Relaxing Gift Boxes 
*Bio Ionic Blowdryers, Style Winders & Flat Irons

$20 Free Holiday Bonus

Take advantage of this great incentive for yourself or for someone you love!  Call for details and to reserve your holiday appointment.

Salon Today 200 Recognizes the Top 200 Salons Nationwide

In August of this year Salon Central submitted its application as a contestant in the Salon Today Magazine's Salon 200 Competition. There are many categories to compete in (Growth, Philanthropy, Compensation & Benefits, Retention & Referrals, Customer Service, Recruitment and Training are a few).  Finally, we decided to enter the Retention & Referrals category. Guest retention and referrals are a big theme in the salon and we pride ourselves in having an overall high rate in both. We see an average of 75-100 new guests per month and this is not something we take lightly. The winners will be published in the January/February issue of Salon Today Magazine. We will keep you posted, wish us luck!

"When it comes to a sustainable business, a salon's ability to get clients to return again and again, as well as refer their family and friends, is the key to its success. We invited applicants to describe all their loyalty and referral programs as they would to a new client, including how they would encourage that client to prebook her next appointment." 

~Salon Today~

Check out our story in the November/December, 2013 issue of Bethesda Magazine. 

Hot off the press.

Hurry While Supplies Last!

At Salon Central it is our commitment to continue to support local organizations and charities. It is our way of giving back to the community.

For two weeks beginning October 1,we will be sponsoring a used book drive to help support Montgomery County's Friends of the Library". Drop off your securely bagged/boxed books at the salon and we will take care of the rest. 

FOTL has three retail outlets county wide that resells gently used books to the public. The profits generated from these sales goes to promoting and enhancing our public libraries, and helping to support several community projects including literary and scholarship programs. 

Follow the link below to be redirected to the FOTL website where you will find more information on this wonderful organization.

http://www.folmc.org

     Salon products vs over the counter products. What's the difference and Why?

     Look... We're not comparing ourselves to doctors, but when we prescribe what we feel is  best for your freshly cut and colored hair, that you've just spent anywhere from $75-$250 on, you might want to listen. 
     Our goal isn't to push products. It is our duty as your haircare professional, to help you duplicate the style we've created in the salon, by yourself at home. So when we suggest a mousse, or gel, or smoother, its for the greater good of us all. Shampoo's, conditioners and at home treatments are suggested only to help preserve your gorgeous hair color for as long as possible (sorry, not responsible for those white roots that pop out after 3-4 weeks).
     You will be thrilled that your hair looks awesome, and you did it yourself, and that you will get compliments from friends and family, who will asked you - where do you get your hair done? - and you will tell them Salon Central. YES, that's exactly what we wanted!  Now you understand... We all win!!!
     I know many of you are using products that you purchase at the drugstore or grocery store. You probably think our products are too expensive and that what you've been using is just fine. Just know that you get what you pay for. Yes, all shampoo's are made to clean the hair and scalp, however like all wine is made from grapes, some are just better than other's.  The professional shampoos and conditioners that we offer at the salon are much more concentrated, therefore they may be more expensive, but will out last your CVS shampoo by weeks. Our products will have less water and sulfates in them.  The more sulfates in the mix, the faster your hair color will fade. The more water in the bottle the faster it will be gone.
    When you purchase your haircare products from us we are honored that you trust our recommendation. We also guarantee our products as they are backed by companies like  Redken, Aveda, Pureology and Loreal.  We encourage you to exchange them for something else if they are not performing as we promised.  
     Lastly, let's not forget that you are helping a small local business. As always, we appreciate your loyalty and thank you for your patronage.

Thank You For Your Loyalty

Salon Central Rewards Program 

We want you to know how much we appreciate your loyalty, so we are pleased to announce our new Salon Central Rewards Program. 

Starting this month, you will be receiving reward points on all retail and service purchases in the salon. 

When you you have accumulated 20 points, you will automatically receive a $20 gift card to use on anything in our salon. Feel free to call guest services for details.

Warmest Regards, 

Your Friends at Salon Central! 

Help us win "Best of Bethesda"

Honestly, we have been voted "top vote getter" for 5 consecutive years. Dear Friends, it's time to step it up! We have over 1500 active email addresses in our database, that we have already reached out to. If you are one of our loyal guests, and you've received an email from us with a link to the Best of Bethesda survey... well then please - VOTE for SALON CENTRAL in the BEST SALON category!

If you are not on our email list, or don't read our emails... here is the link below for you to click on that will take you directly to the survey. All it takes is for you to provide choices in ten categories and to enter your name, address and email address. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you, for taking the time to vote for us. With Love, Your Friends at Salon Central. P.S. Voting ends September 16.

VOTE HERE

Free Stuff At Salon Central

Everyone loves free stuff! Here is a list of things you get for free at Salon Central.  

"Like" us or just check in on Facebook, Foursquare, Yelp or Google Places and receive a free travel size product every time you visit.

All first time clients receive a gift bag with goodies like; product samples, vouchers with discounts towards retail purchases, special offers with our esthetician, a free deep conditioning treatment, and $15 off a hair color service (approximately $100 in value).

Free Wifi – Join us and relax, enjoy our free wifi, surf the net or get some work done.

Free Beverages; Sodas, coffee, tea and filtered H2O

Free Bang trims - for existing clients

Free Neck trims - for existing clients

And of course, free fun!

Redkens Color Camo For Men

At Salon Central over 40% of the of the services we preform include a hair color. Mens hair color has become extremely popular and with the help of Redken's Color Camo - it's easier than ever. Call us when you're ready.

TIRED OF THE GRAY?

Do something about it! Redken gives you options including our New Customized Camouflage Service. Want to blend a little gray? In just 5 minutes you can look years younger. Want to blend even more gray? You’re just 10 minutes away from increased coverage and a younger look! New Customized Camouflage Services are fast, easy and discrete:

• Reveal younger-looking haircolor in only 5 or 10 minutes
• Customize how much gray you want to blend
• Applied quickly and easily right in the shampoo area
• Leaves hair with natural-looking results that fade gradually

At Salon Central, we love the look and feel of the Free People's urban chic style. Here is a link to their blog with lots of great tips on beauty and style. Enjoy!

Nothing like salon team love. Here are 2 SC beauties after an amazing crazy Saturday! Sara & Jay 

The Real Man's Hairstyles Made Simple With Redken For Men

Learning Like Pros

Yesterday we were honored to have, guest speaker, Jim Bahr, a Professional Business Coach in our salon. Jim specializes in salon and spa business development and delivered a highly motivational presentation to our team. 

Basically, we discussed the continued growth and health of the beauty industry in the U.S. Jim gave us hard facts, comparing Salon Central's business figures to those of the national average. We were all very please to learn that our performance is well above average in several areas. 

One of the facts we learned, is that, because of the high percentage of color services performed in the salon, we are branded to be a "color salon". What this means is that, 45% of clients who walk through our doors, receives a color service along with the many other services we offer. What this translates to is - that our guests trust us, especially with their color, nothing makes us happier.

At Salon Central we remain committed to delivering the highest level of customer service, making your experience at our salon unforgettable. Our goal is to exceed your expectations every time you visit us!

Special thanks to Jim Bahr and our friends at Salon Centrix!

   

Here are a few products you can purchase at Salon Central to help maintain your hair color while at the beach, pool, and just being outdoors this summer. These products can also be used daily to protect your hair color from fading, prevent damage from the sun and add shine.

HAVE FUN IN THE SUN!

                     

We are excited to announce a raffle to win this Toshiba 29" LED TV.

You will automatically be entered to win this awesome Toshiba LED TV (valued at $300) if you purchase 2 or more retail products. So why not stock up on your favorite shampoos, conditioners or styling products.  The winner will be announced on September 30th so your have 10 weeks to enter! Come visit us. 

Salon Central Passionate Hair Lovers: Our guests at Salon Central are never certain wh...

Salon Central Passionate Hair Lovers:
 Our guests at Salon Central are never certain wh...:  Our guests at Salon Central are never certain which hair products are going to be right for their hair type. We've discovered a t...

 Our guests at Salon Central are never certain which hair products are going to be right for their hair type. We've discovered a tool available on the Pureology website that can help you solve that problem. Honestly, purchasing salon products should never be a problem, actually I love watching the look on our guests faces when they leave with their goodies. One of our goals as SC is to help you recreate your personal style at home. Check out the link below and see which Pureology products are perfect for your hair type. Please call us for our recommendation!

http://www.pureology.com/consultation

Introducing Pureology  

Our Newest Brand Of Luxury Haircare

Last week we introduced Pureology, to the shelves at our retail center in the salon. We are so excited to have you come in and let us try some of their exciting new products on you. They smell great and work even better.

Their mission is to provide the professional hair colourist and their clients

the highest quality colour care products that enhance radiance, dramatically improve
hair condition, and respect the environment while delivering longer lasting hair colour guaranteed.