SCRATCHCOLUMNIST
FOOT notes
Award-winning pedicurist & advanced footcare practitioner, DENISE SPRAGG, shares insights to elevate your treatments
ABOUT DENISE SPRAGG
Denise set up a tai chi and yoga retreats company with her husband in 2005, which sparked an interest in holistic and beauty treatments. She has practiced manicure and pedicure services since 2011, is trained in advanced pedicure techniques and is an accredited Footlogix practitioner.
Alongside her husband, Denise runs health and wellbeing centre, The Sangha House, in Taunton, Somerset. She offers lacquer and gel pedicure treatments, as well as footcare services for clients with diabetes. In 2023, Denise won the SOS Beauty Award for Footcare Practitioner of the Year, and she is the founder of the Elevate Pedicures website.
/denisespragg1971
How to sell pedicure services during winter
As the temperature drops, many clients hide their feet in cosy socks and slippers, and stop booking pedicure treatments. Winter isn’t the time to let footcare slide; it’s a great opportunity to educate your clients and elevate your pedicure services. With the right strategies, winter can become one of your busiest times of year. You just need to shift your focus to footcare, rather than simply pretty toes.
One of my favourite ways to sell a gel polish pedicure is to liken it to a gorgeous underwear set – nobody else might know you’re wearing it, but you do!
Why pedicures matter in winter
The colder months bring harsh conditions for feet. Dry air caused by central heating, cold weather, wet conditions – plus layers of socks and tight boots can leave skin cracked, nails neglected and circulation sluggish. Unlike summer pedicures that may focus on colour and presentation, winter pedicures should concentrate on foot health, hydration and self-care. When clients book appointments, remind them to bring a fresh pair of socks for after their footcare service. Highlight words like ‘repair’, ‘restore’ and ‘revitalise’ in marketing to connect with the seasonal needs of your clients.
Bundle up: create winter-themed packages
Packages are powerful as they add value. Introduce limited-edition winter pedicure bundles with seasonal names, such as:
• Hot Cocoa Pedi – includes a chocolate-scented scrub, warm towel wrap and cocoa butter massage.
• Fireside Feet – a deeply moisturising pedicure featuring paraffin wax, peppermint oil and heated booties.
• Snow Glow – a brightening and exfoliating treatment with seasonal scents like vanilla, orange or gingerbread.
Include extras such as a complimentary mini foot cream to take home or a cup of herbal tea during the service. Small comforts elevate the client experience.
Educate your clients
Clients often don’t realise the importance of year-round footcare. Use social media, email marketing and in-salon signage to educate them. Share information such as:
• ‘Cold weather causes skin to lose moisture faster. Regular pedicures help prevent cracking and discomfort.’
• ‘Cuticles and nails are more prone to breakage in winter. Keeping them hydrated and trimmed is key.’
• ‘Professional footcare improves circulation, especially when you’re less active during the colder months.’ Include before and after photos of dry, neglected feet versus post-pedicure results to create a compelling visual argument.
‘‘ Unlike summer pedicures that may focus on colour and presentation, winter pedicures should concentrate on foot health, hydration and self-care. ‘‘
Offer incentives and loyalty rewards
Encourage regular bookings by offering winter-exclusive promotions. Try:
• ‘Buy two, get one free’ pedicure packages, which are ideal for monthly upkeep during winter.
• A ‘refer a friend’ deal with a discount for both the current and new client.
• A ‘winter wellness’ loyalty card – after five pedicures, the sixth is free or includes a complimentary add-on. These strategies not only bring clients to your door, but keep them coming back.
Add comfort to the experience
Elevate your pedicure space for the season with blankets, heated massage chairs or warm neck wraps. Let clients escape the cold weather and enter a cocoon of comfort. Play soothing playlists, use candles or essential oils with warming scents like cinnamon, clove or sandalwood, and offer hot drinks. The experience can become the highlight of their week – and one they’ll want to repeat.
Leverage social media and reviews
Encourage satisfied clients to post photos of their treatment results or your nail space and tag your business. Showcase sensory pedicure elements such as a bubbly foot soak, winter nail art and spa-like atmospheres, and use hashtags like #WinterPedicure, #CosyFeet or #WinterSpaVibes to build seasonal buzz.
In addition, short form videos with enhanced sound – of a foot spa, the crunch of a salt scrub or a luxurious foot massage in slow motion – can be pleasing for audiences. Ask regular clients to leave reviews mentioning how their winter pedicures helped their dry skin, improved circulation or simply made them feel pampered.
Think beyond toes
Consider upselling foot masks, intensive moisturisers, fuzzy socks or home kits for winter footcare between visits. Display these near your payment area with signs like ‘Keep the glow going at home.’ You can also add mini service upgrades, such as a hot stone massage or collagen foot mask, which are perfect for clients seeking extra indulgence.
Winter is the ideal time to reframe pedicures as essential self-care. With a blend of comfort, education and seasonal appeal, you can become the go-to pedicure provider in your area.