As the year winds down, it’s tempting to coast into the holidays. But October, November, and December are some of the most important months for setting yourself up for a successful new year. Think of this final quarter as both a reflection period + a launchpad. So here’s how you can use the last three months of the year to prepare strategically for 2026.
October: Audit + Align
October is the month for clarity. Before planning ahead, take inventory of your business.
Review your numbers: Look at revenue, retail sales, average ticket size, and client retention. Identify your most profitable services and where growth is needed.
Evaluate your menu: Which services are performing well? Which ones could be updated, retired, or rebranded? Align your offerings with what clients are truly asking for.
Reflect on your brand presence: Does your website, social media, and studio aesthetic reflect where you want your business to be in 2026?
Reconnect with education: Identify gaps in your knowledge—new treatments, product science, or business skills—and choose where to invest in training.
November: Plan + Prepare
November is for mapping out your 2026 blueprint.
Set revenue and client goals: Decide what growth looks like—more clients, higher spend per client, or more retail sales.
Create your marketing calendar: Plan seasonal promotions, launches, and events for 2026. A simple calendar helps you avoid last-minute stress.
Prep for tax season: Organize receipts, update bookkeeping, and schedule a meeting with your accountant. Getting this done now prevents January overwhelm.
Holiday retail strategy: Stock your shelves intentionally for gift sets and bundles. Retail can give your Q4 revenue a major boost.
December: Nurture & Launch
December is the month to finish strong and plant seeds for the future.
Client appreciation: Small gestures—thank you cards, holiday treats, or a VIP gift bag—strengthen loyalty.
Pre-booking push: Encourage clients to book January and February appointments before year-end. This helps you start 2026 with a full calendar.
Personal reset: Reflect on your own well-being. Burnout doesn’t serve you or your clients—schedule rest, it's important!
Soft launch new ideas: Test small changes (a new service add-on, a skincare education series, or a digital resource for clients) before rolling them out fully in 2026.
By closing the year with purpose, we can enter 2026 not just prepared, but already in motion. Happy planning! :)
