If you have started an aromatherapy business, you will be happy to know that as aromatherapy gains popularity, you will gain customers. As alternative medicines become more mainstream in the United States, aromatherapy has received increased attention as a viable alternative therapy. So, take advantage of this increasingly widespread attention and focus it on your business through smart advertising.

Print Methods

Print advertising is becoming increasingly passé as other forms of advertising--namely, the Internet--gain in popularity. But, you should not overlook the importance of your local weekly alternative newspaper as a source for potential customers. These weekly "rags," as they are often called, step out of the mainstream and promote ideas, people, and businesses that are often on the cutting edge. People who are intrigued by alternative therapies are often on the cutting edge themselves--so voila! You reach your potential customer base easily and cheaply.

You might also search for health newsletters in your community, as people who generally read these newsletters are intrigued by health and wellness and would be interested in aromatherapy.

Media Advertising

Media advertising (radio, television, and the like) can be very expensive if you are trying to buy ad space on mainstream networks. Here again, it helps to target local, community-oriented, and alternative sources. If there is a cable access channel in your area, you might consider buying ad space from them. You might also look for student radio stations, local radio broadcasts, and other media outlets that are less expensive and more cutting-edge than traditional outlets.

Internet Advertising

You can get a lot of bang for your buck with Internet advertising. Not only are internet ads cheap and easy to produce, they also take your business to a global level. There are also a host of ways to promote your business that can also educate and inform your public of the benefits of aromatherapy. You could set up podcasts and discuss how aromatherapy can help with certain illnesses. You could do a video blog (or vlog) demonstrating how essential oils are applied. Of course, the linchpin in all of your Internet advertising should be a professional and easy-to-navigate website. This is your substitute for a bricks and mortar store, and your home base for all of your Internet ads such as podcasts or vlogs.

Word of Mouth

Never, never, never underestimate the power of word of mouth advertising. If you establish a loyal customer base and provide your customers with outstanding service, you can guarantee you will get referrals. This is especially important in a service-based business like aromatherapy, where you are competing for customers repeat business.

Community Events

Try to get on as many mailing lists as possible about community events in your area. If there is an upcoming Health Expo or Alternative Health Fair in your area, it may well be worth your time to purchase a booth. These events give you community-wide exposure and can often introduce you to an entirely different segment of your area--the elderly, for example, who generally don't read the alternative weekly rags.

With aromatherapy growing in popularity, take advantage of the surge to get the word out about your business. There are several ways you can reach potential clients and grow your business. Good luck!

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Sarah Baker is a documentary filmmaker and writer currently living in New Bern, NC. Her first book, Lucky Stars: Janet Gaynor and Charles Farrell, will be published December 2009. Read more about her.