Creating Short Videos: Easy Ideas for Salons, Shops, and Service

Let’s face it: the world of social media is moving faster than ever.

If you’re running a salon, shop, or service business in the UK, you’ve probably noticed that short videos are everywhere—from Instagram Reels to TikTok and Facebook Stories.

These bite-sized clips are not just a passing trend; they’re one of the most effective ways to grab attention, showcase your personality, and turn viewers into loyal customers.

But if you’re new to video or worried it’s too complicated, don’t worry.

At Socially Spotted, we believe anyone can create engaging short videos with just a smartphone and a few simple ideas.

Here’s your complete guide to getting started and making your business shine online.

Why Short Videos Are a Game-Changer for Local Businesses

Short-form video content (think 15 seconds to 90 seconds) is the “snackable” media your customers love.

According to Elite Business Magazine, video marketing is now the top-performing content format for small businesses in the UK, with higher engagement rates than static images or text posts.

Why? Because videos are quick to watch, easy to share, and perfect for showing off your brand’s personality in a way that feels real and relatable.

Benefits of short videos for salons, shops, and services:

• Grab attention fast: Videos autoplay in feeds, making people stop scrolling.
• Show, don’t just tell: Demonstrate products, services, or results in seconds.
• Build trust: Let customers see the real people behind your business.
• Drive action: Clear calls to action (“Book now!” or “Visit today!”) encourage immediate response.

1. Introduce Your Team and Tell Your Story

Start with the basics: let people know who you are!

A quick 30–60 second video introducing yourself or your team members helps put a face to your business and builds instant trust.

Ideas:

• “Meet the Team Monday”: Each week, introduce a different staff member.
• Share a fun fact or favourite product.
• Tell viewers what makes your business unique.

Example:
“Hi, I’m Emma from Socially Spotted Beauty in Leeds.

I love helping clients find their confidence with a new look. Come and meet our friendly team!”

2. Announce Special Offers and Promotions

Short videos are perfect for shouting about your latest deals.

Whether it’s a flash sale, a new product launch, or a seasonal offer, a quick video can create excitement and drive immediate bookings or visits.

How to do it:

• Record yourself explaining the offer.
• Show the product or service in action.
• Add text overlays with key details (“Today only!” or “20% off for new clients”).

Tip:
Use Instagram or Facebook Stories for time-limited deals, and add a countdown sticker for extra urgency.

3. Share Quick Tips, Tutorials, and How-Tos

Educational content is always a winner.

Share your expertise in a way that helps your audience and positions you as the go-to expert in your field.

Salon ideas:

• “How to style your fringe at home”
• “Best way to care for coloured hair”

Shop ideas:

• “How to choose the perfect gift for Father’s Day”
• “3 ways to style our new scarf collection”

Service business ideas:

• “How our cleaning process works”
• “What to expect during your first appointment”

Keep these videos under a minute and use captions for viewers watching without sound.

4. Show Before-and-After Transformations

There’s nothing more satisfying than a dramatic transformation!

For salons, this could be a haircut or colour change. For shops, show a product in use.

For services, highlight results or improvements.

How to film it:

• Start with a “before” shot.
• Pause or use a fun transition.
• Reveal the “after” with a big smile or customer reaction.

Pro tip:
Ask your clients’ permission before filming or sharing their results.

5. Take Viewers Behind the Scenes

People love to see what goes on behind closed doors.

Show your workspace, prep for a busy day, or the process of getting ready for a special event.

Ideas:

• A “day in the life” of your team.
• Setting up your shop before opening.
• Unboxing new products or supplies.

Behind-the-scenes content makes your business feel real and relatable, which builds loyalty.

6. Film Your Work in Action

Show what you do best! For salons, film a quick time-lapse of a hair transformation or nail art session.

Shops can show products being wrapped or displayed.

Service businesses can film part of their process—like a quick car valet or a snippet of a fitness class.

Editing tip:
Speed up the video and add upbeat music for extra energy.

7. Collect and Share Customer Testimonials

Ask happy customers to share a quick review on camera.

If they’re camera-shy, film their reaction or let them hold up a sign with their feedback.

Why this works:
Real voices build trust and provide powerful social proof—potential customers want to see that others love your business.

8. Answer FAQs in 60 Seconds

Think about the questions you get asked most. Record a short video answering one question at a time.

This not only saves you time in the long run but also positions you as approachable and knowledgeable.

Examples:

• “What products do you use for curly hair?”
• “How do I book an appointment?”
• “What’s your return policy?”

9. Highlight New Arrivals or Bestsellers

Unbox new products, showcase your bestsellers, or do a quick “product of the week” feature.

Hold up the item, share why you love it, and invite viewers to come in or order online.

Tip:
Use Instagram Reels or TikTok for these videos—they’re perfect for quick product showcases.

10. Run a Quick Challenge or Giveaway

Create a fun, interactive video inviting your followers to join a challenge or enter a giveaway.

For example, “Show us your best DIY hairstyle using our products and tag us for a chance to win a free treatment!”

This boosts engagement and spreads the word about your business.

11. Use Trends and Music to Boost Reach

Jump on trending sounds, challenges, or hashtags to get more eyes on your videos.

TikTok and Instagram Reels are especially good for this. Just add your own twist to make the trend relevant to your business.

12. Share Your Community Involvement

Show your support for local causes, events, or charities.

Film a quick clip at a community event, or share how your business gives back.

This builds goodwill and helps you connect with local customers.

Platforms and Tools: Where and How to Share

• Instagram Reels: Great for videos up to 90 seconds. Use trending sounds and hashtags to reach more viewers.
• TikTok: Perfect for creative, fast-paced content. Trends move quickly, so jump in with your own spin.
• Facebook: Share videos as posts, Stories, or in local groups. Pin your best video to the top of your page.
• YouTube Shorts: Ideal for vertical videos under 60 seconds, reaching a wide audience without needing a big budget.

Editing tips:
You don’t need fancy equipment—your smartphone and free editing apps like InShot or CapCut are more than enough.

Keep cuts tight, add captions, and use music to keep things lively.

Best Practices for Short Business Videos

• Keep it short and focused: Aim for 30–90 seconds. Get straight to the point and make every second count.
• Use captions: Many people watch with the sound off, so add text overlays or subtitles.
• Show your face: People connect with people. Even a quick “hello” builds trust.
• Have a clear call to action: Tell viewers what to do next—visit your shop, book an appointment, follow your page, or share the video.
• Plan ahead: Jot down your main points before filming, but don’t stress about being perfect. Authenticity wins every time.
• Test different ideas: Try a mix of tutorials, testimonials, behind-the-scenes, and product showcases to see what your audience loves most.

Real-World UK Examples

• Salons: A Manchester hair salon posts weekly “before and after” Reels, showing dramatic colour changes and happy clients. These videos regularly get shared and bring in new bookings.
• Shops: An independent gift shop in Bristol uses TikTok to unbox new arrivals and share quick gift-wrapping tips, driving foot traffic and online sales.
• Service Providers: A local cleaning company creates time-lapse videos of their team transforming homes, with captions highlighting their eco-friendly products.

FAQs:

What’s the best length for a short business video?

Aim for 30–90 seconds. Shorter videos hold attention better and are more likely to be watched to the end.

Do I need professional equipment to make good videos?

No! Your smartphone and free editing apps are all you need. Focus on good lighting, clear audio, and authentic content.

What kind of videos work best for salons and shops?

Before-and-after transformations, product demos, quick tips, team introductions, and behind-the-scenes clips are all highly engaging.

How often should I post short videos?

Start with one or two per week. Consistency is key—regular posts keep your business top of mind.

How can I get more people to see my videos?

Use hashtags, tag your location, share in local groups, and encourage followers to share. Posting at peak times—like evenings or weekends—can also boost views.

Conclusion

Short videos are one of the easiest and most effective ways to market your salon, shop, or service business in the UK.

You don’t need a big budget or fancy equipment—just your phone, a bit of creativity, and the willingness to try something new.

By sharing quick introductions, tips, transformations, and behind-the-scenes moments, you’ll build trust, attract new customers, and keep your regulars coming back for more.

At Socially Spotted, we’re here to help you shine on social media—so grab your phone and start filming your next great video today!