Trying to Attract Clients on a Budget? Start with These 5 Local Partnerships

Let’s be real—finding new clients isn’t always about flashy marketing or big-budget campaigns. Sometimes the best opportunities are hiding in plain sight. If you feel like you’ve tapped out your usual crowd, it might be time to look beyond the expected places.

This quick guide shares some creative client sources and unexpected partnerships you may not have considered—but absolutely should.

Table of Contents

1. Hospitals

Between the long hours, constant standing, and emotional toll, hospital workers often put their own wellness last. Reach out to local hospitals with:

  • Footcare and chair massage pop-ups in staff lounges
  • After-shift specials just for nurses and techs
  • Partnering with HR to offer service discounts as staff wellness perks

How to reach out: Call the hospital’s HR department or employee wellness coordinator. Keep it simple: “Hi, I run a local spa and would love to support your staff with easy stress-relief services. Can I send over some options?”

Keep them coming back: Offer a bounce-back coupon for their next visit.

They already value care—offer it to them.

2. Fitness Centers

Wellness isn't just about workouts. Connect with local gyms, yoga studios, or even personal trainers. Ideas to explore:

  • Create a joint package: facial + personal training session
  • Offer express services for post-gym glow-ups
  • Host skin wellness events in their space

How to reach out: Stop in during off-peak hours or email the gym manager. Try: “I have an idea for a partnership that adds value for your members—would you be open to a 15-minute chat?”

Short on time? Offer gym-specific discounts and leave postcards at the front desk instead of hosting events.

Keep them coming back: Give each guest a card that rewards them after their third visit.

Make it easy for gym-goers to add a little recovery into their routine.

3. Counselors & Therapists

Mental health and physical self-care go hand in hand. Build a referral relationship with counselors or therapy centers:

  • Share business cards or flyers
  • Develop a small “relaxation menu” focused on stress relief
  • Offer a code or form just for therapist referrals

How to reach out: Email or call local therapists with this message: “I'm looking to connect with professionals who support emotional wellness. I run a spa focused on stress relief and would love to collaborate.”

Keep them coming back: Offer a stress-focused service bundle with a follow-up discount if they return within 30 days.

Position your spa as part of a complete wellness plan.

4. Local Businesses

Skip the big corporate accounts and go straight to the people. Approach small to mid-size businesses in your area:

  1. Offer mobile services during lunch breaks
  2. Create punch cards or discounts just for their employees
  3. Drop off small self-care gifts or service samples with a welcome note

How to reach out: Visit or call the office manager. Say something like, “I’d love to offer your team a stress-reducing break during the workday—could we schedule a short demo?”

Don’t have time to go offsite? Provide in-spa discounts for employees instead and send over easy digital flyers.

Keep them coming back: Give each staff member a referral card for friends or family.

Being the go-to spa for a nearby office could mean weekly regulars.

 

5. More Unique Ideas (Try These First!)

Short on time or energy? These are some of the fastest, lowest-effort ways to reach new clients without leaving your spa:

  • New Movers Program: Partner with real estate agents to welcome new residents with an intro offer.
  • High School/College Faculty: Teachers and staff need care too—especially during exam seasons.
  • Weekend Market Pop-Ups: Set up a table at farmer’s markets or craft fairs with quick services or skin consultations.
  • Veterinary Clinics: Like hospital staff, these professionals are on their feet and often overlooked.

Final Thoughts

People are already looking for ways to feel better. When you make it easy, local, and personal, you stop marketing and start connecting. Look beyond your current clients and ask: Who else needs what we offer but isn’t being asked?

That’s your next client.

Worried about outreach silence? If you don’t hear back from someone after a few days, follow up once the next week. Most partnerships take a couple of touches to get moving.

Simple way to track success: Use a code, checklist, or stamp on each offer so you know what’s working and where new clients are coming from.

Quick Note: Before offering mobile services or in-community treatments, check your local licensing and health regulations. A quick call to your state board can save you time and trouble down the road.

You don’t need a full team or a big budget to grow. Just a little creativity, consistency, and care—and your next loyal client might walk in tomorrow. You’ve got this.

 

 

 

Universal Companies is proud to have a team of experienced spa advisors on staff and welcomes you to consult with our professionals about spa products and supplies, including ingredients, equipment, and retail. Dedicated to the success of spa professionals everywhere, we're grateful to be recognized with multiple industry awards (thank you!) and proud to support the spa industry through mentorship and sponsorship.

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