Proms trend can make profits for salons

Spurred on by the success of all-American sensations such as Glee, High School Musical and Gossip Girl, end-of-school Summer events are big business, with hair and beauty services high on the list of priorities for wannabe prom queens.

"In recent years, we've seen a huge rise in demand for styling for school proms," says Ronnie Marshall of Byron Hairdressing, Kirkcaldy, Fife.

"We find that there is easily as much emphasis on hair and make-up for proms as there is for weddings."

And as with weddings, a thorough consultation taking into account the dress and accessories, can be beneficial.

"Taking a cue from the catwalks, styling has a romantic feel to it for 2011," explains Louise Wood of The Hair Advice Centre, Englefield Green, Surrey.

"For girly girls who want a glamorous look, take a cue from teen idols like Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, the Glee girls and Cheryl Cole.

Half-updos, inspired by the Royal wedding, and a recurring red carpet favourite, are also popular with girls who want to look glossy but not too 'done'.

For those with a more fashionable edge, get inspired by style chameleons like Rihanna, Emma Watson and The Saturdays, all of whom influence the lucrative teen market.

Louise continues: "Plaited styles and updos with height and texture are popular and will frame bare shoulders.

Loose, undone buns are a gorgeous alternative and can be worn high on the head for a quirky look."

Adding in beauty services will also entice groups, making your salon a one-stop-prom destination.

Akin Konizi, HOB Salons, London says: "Many salons offer beauty services and providing a prom package is a great idea.

For those who don't have in-house resources, team up with local businesses to provide services to include tanning and nails."

Finally, remember that prom clients are potential long-term future clients. Actively promoting your prom packages to schools and the local community will showcase your salon services to a new generation of clients. Give them the experience of a lifetime on the biggest night of their lives to ensure they continue coming back for more.