SMS has always been one of the most powerful tools in a salon or spa marketing toolkit. It’s fast, direct, and personal. Here’s how you can use it, and our best tips to make every message work better for your business.
SMS marketing best practices for salons
Longer messages offer new opportunities, but strategy still matters. Here’s how to make the most of your expanded limits:
1. Lead with value
Start your message with the most compelling detail of a discount, benefit, or headline that hooks your attention.
2. Be conversational
You don’t need to sound like a robot. Write like you speak to clients in the salon: friendly, warm, and professional.
3. Always include a call to action
More space doesn’t mean more fluff. Be clear: what do you want the client to do next? (Book now, reply to this text, click this link, etc.)
4. Personalise where you can
Use names and reference past services to make the message feel tailored.
5. Don’t overdo it
Just because you can write more doesn’t mean every message should be long. Mix up your lengths depending on the message and goal.
Use cases for longer salon SMS messages
With more room to write, you can start thinking beyond the typical “Appointment Confirmed” or “We Miss You” texts. Here are a few creative ways to use longer SMS messages:
Run seasonal promotions
Instead of squeezing in a basic discount, you can now tell a short story:
“Hi Emma! Winter is here ❄️ Warm up with our limited-time Hot Towel Hair Treatment + Blow Wave for just $49! Available Mon–Thurs. Book now: [link]”
Fill last-minute gaps
Use urgency and personality to fill empty slots with style:
“We’ve had a cancellation tomorrow at 2PM — want to snap it up? You’ll get 10% off any colour service + free treatment. Text us back or book here: [link]”
Promote new services
Longer messages let you explain a new service more clearly and highlight the benefits:
“We now offer brow lamination! It lifts, shapes, and sets your brows in place for 6 weeks. Launch promo: $69 incl. tint. Book online now: [link] ????♀️”
Nurture client relationships
Send value-driven messages that educate or check in with client’s post-service:
“Hi Jess, thanks for visiting! For best results after your keratin treatment, avoid washing for 72 hours and use sulphate-free shampoo. Questions? Just reply!”
Free eBook: 40 salon SMS templates you can copy and send
We’ve created a free eBook with 40 SMS marketing templates specifically for salons and spas including templates for rebooking, promotions, cancellations, and client care.
The new, expanded SMS character limits are more than just a technical update, they’re a chance to communicate more clearly, creatively, and effectively with your clients.