NINE IDEAS TO KICK START SALES (FOR UNDER $100 EACH)

In today's economy, people need a good "excuse" to shop. Sales people need a reason to pick up the phone, call them, and give them that compelling reason that makes shopping feel good again.

Below are some great summer-themed special event ideas that cost less than $100 each but will get the cash registers ringing again. In order to maximize success, keep the promotions and gift card redemption periods short to foster a sense of urgency. Make sure you capture as much client information as they are willing to share so that you can include participants in upcoming events.
25 Weddings and Nothing to Wear
Throw a wine and cheese cocktail reception and showcase great dresses to wear to all types of weddings — formal, informal, day or evening. Have a drawing that night for a $50 gift card towards a dress that weekend.
Queen for a Day
Invite the prom queen nominees from your local high school to a special prom fashion show party in the store. Use student models, iPod music, and snacks to keep their attention. Give the girls a $25 gift card towards a purchase.
Free Manicures with Purchase
What girl doesn't love a free manicure? Invite your local manicurists to meet with your clients, set up in front of your store and offer free manicures with any $50 purchase.
Hot Summer Nights
Invite store patrons to register to win a $100 gift card for a great Fourth of July party outfit. No purchase necessary, but limit the length of time to enter. Make sure to keep and use the contact information for all who registered.
Naughty or Nice?
Invite a local tattoo artist to offer temporary tattoos, serve cocktails, play music, and create a shopping frenzy. Have participants invite their significant others for a fashion show and tattoo reveal.
Get Ready for Swimsuit Season
Create an event around beach season. Offer personalized fittings and give away inexpensive beach items such as totes, sunglasses, novels, and towels and arrange them in a great display.
1 Shoe, 2 Shoe, 3 Shoe: Score!
Have your local cobbler set up shop in your store. Invite your 15 best customers to bring in three pairs for complimentary repair. Return the shoes the following weekend so your best customers have visited two consecutive weeks!
A Surprise for Dad
For Fathers Day, show Dad how much you love him. Give away 20 $5 gift cards for the purchase of lingerie. Invite brand representatives to do proper fittings and offer refreshments.
Private Sale Night
Invite your 10 best customers to a special private sales night. Give them each $10 gift cards and offer them first crack at new markdowns or just arrived merchandise.
    Contributed by Angela Sweeney