5 Fun & Strategic Summer Collab Ideas for Estheticians

Strategy

May 21

If you’ve ever felt like collaborations have to be over-the-top events to be effective, I’m here to tell you: they don’t. As an esthetician sales and marketing coach, I’ve seen some of the most successful collabs come from low-lift, well-aligned partnerships that center around shared audiences, not massive time commitments.

This summer, let’s shift the way you think about collaborations. Whether you’re fully booked or just looking to boost visibility, here are 5 creative collab ideas that don’t require renting a venue or planning a big pop-up:

1. The Skin-Loving Smoothie Bar Collab (Erewhon Style)

Partner with a local smoothie or juice shop to create a signature skin-friendly blend. Think collagen, berries, coconut water—ingredients that nourish from within. You can: – Offer a facial discount with proof of smoothie purchase – Set up a small educational display about skin nutrition – Feature each other on social media for a visibility boost Low effort, high return—and the wellness crossover is a natural fit for your brand.

2. The SPF & Shades Pop-Up

Team up with a local glasses or sunglasses store and do a mini “SPF & Shades” awareness day. You bring a few of your favorite sunscreens and talk about sun safety around the delicate eye area. They help clients find the perfect shades. Together, you provide protection and style. This could be a 2-hour window in their store or a simple table in their reception area—it doesn’t have to be complicated to make an impact.

3. The Pilates (or Yoga) Studio Add-On Offer

Movement studios attract clients who already care about wellness. Offer a complimentary add-on (like a post-class skin refresh, misting station, or quick consult) to their members or class-goers. Better yet? Create a flyer for the studio offering a discount on your services for first-time facials. You’re providing value while introducing yourself to a like-minded community.

4. The Nail + Facial Self-Care Package

Collaborate with a local nail tech or nail salon to create the ultimate summer self-care package. Example: – Hydrating facial with you – Bright summer mani or pedi – Optional retail bundle (SPF, cuticle oil, lip balm) It’s the kind of bundle that makes people feel instantly taken care of—and they get introduced to another service they might not have booked otherwise.

5. The Summer Skin x Makeup Masterclass

Host a summer skin + makeup prep class with a local makeup artist (in person or online). You teach clients how to prep the skin properly for summer makeup, then your MUA partner shows them how to achieve a few easy, glowy looks. It’s educational, promotional, and trust-building—all in one.

No event space? No problem. Host it virtually and record it for ongoing lead generation or as a special bonus for new facial clients.

Local Collaborations don’t need to be complicated to be powerful. Even something as simple as a partner discount or a bundled offer can boost your bookings, grow your audience, and strengthen your community relationships.

So instead of asking, “What big event can I plan this summer?”

Try asking, “Who already serves my ideal client, and how can we make something simple (but valuable) together?”

I think local collaborations are so so important for Estheticians and Waxers. That’s why I include local collaboration ideas in both the Esti Content Club and Waxers Content Club!