I totally agree with 9/11 killing our business.  We have seen it dropping a little each year.  People are coloring their hair more at home to save money.  And yes a lot of the ppl are not as loyal as they use to be.  I think this time of the year is a slow time anyhow.  As for making alot of money, I have never done over 18,500. and I have been in the business since 1984.  That is not including tips.  I did work for a JCP for 13 years, for the wonderful benefits, and leaving all that in October of 06 to start in a smaller salon.  It has had its benefits.  Prices are lower and I dont feel guilty for charging them.  Tips are higher and this year I made more than I did working all those years at JCP.  We do alot of word of mouth advertizing with the refer a friend program and new customers 10.00 off.  We also have a stamp card that after 10 visits you get 5.00 off.  Everyone seems to love those.   We  have also started a little gift bag for the neighboring businesses.  They have samples in them along with 5.00-10.00 off depending on the service.  Every new customer that we do get also gets a  little gift bag with different goodies in it.  We offer coffee, beer, wine, water, pop and the occasional mixed drink, although coffee and water are our biggest desires.  We try to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome and wanting to come back.  We have a sign that we change periodically to say funny things that get your attention.  At this time of the year anything helps. We've had phone calls pertaining to it so we know it works.  These are some of the things we all do in our salon.  Great ideas from everyone!