Pulse September-October 2026 | Page 47

Beyond the Press Release 10 press relations strategies innovative spas can use to earn attention

Press relations is not a single announcement. It is an ongoing practice of being useful, visible, responsive and ready when the right story opportunity appears.
A PRESS RELEASE STILL HAS ITS PLACE, but it is only one part of a strong media strategy. Innovative spas can build visibility by creating more ways for journalists, editors, producers and content creators to understand the business, experience the brand and share stories with their audiences.
1 BUILD A LOCAL MEDIA LIST Start with editors, writers, TV producers, podcast hosts and freelance journalists who cover travel, wellness, beauty, business, lifestyle, hospitality and local happenings. Keep the list current and personal.
2 SEND TAILORED STORY PITCHES A pitch should not feel mass-produced. Shape each idea around the outlet: a trend for consumer media, a leadership lesson for trade media, a visual demo for television or an economic angle for business press.
3 HOST MEDIA VISITS Invite select media to experience the spa, tour the property or meet key team members. A thoughtful visit can help journalists understand the atmosphere, service standards and guest journey in a way no email can fully convey.
4 OFFER EXPERT COMMENTARY Spa leaders, estheticians, therapists and wellness specialists can serve as expert sources on seasonal self-care, skin care trends, stress management, recovery, workplace wellness and guest behavior.
5 CREATE TIMELY TREND NOTES Instead of waiting for a major announcement, send short, useful observations about what guests are requesting, how wellness priorities are changing or which treatments are gaining traction.
6 MAKE LEADERSHIP VISIBLE Owners and directors can pitch themselves as sources on hiring, retention, culture, service excellence, profitability, design, retail strategy or operational innovation.
7 PACKAGE STRONG VISUALS Media coverage requires images and video. Share original photography, treatment-room details, product shots, spokesperson headshots, property images and short B-roll clips when appropriate. Include clear cutlines and usage rights.
8 BUILD RELATIONSHIPS BEFORE ASKING Comment on an article. Share a reporter’ s work. Send a thoughtful note. Invite an editor to coffee. Strong press relations are built through steady connection, not one urgent request.
9 USE AWARDS AND MILESTONES STRATEGI- CALLY Openings, anniversaries, renovations, new leaders, community partnerships, charitable efforts and awards can all become media opportunities when connected to a larger story.
10 KEEP SHOWING UP The best press relations strategy is consistency. Not every pitch will land, but each thoughtful contact helps media understand what your spa stands for, what expertise it can offer and why its stories are worth telling.
PULSE n SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2026 33