You don’t need to go viral to win on social. You just need to feel current.
If you’re running a local franchise and you’re still posting basic promos or random flyers on Facebook… it’s time to switch it up.
The best-performing content in 2025 feels like something your niece would send in the family group chat.
It’s entertaining, easy to make, and based on what’s already trending.
Here are real TikTok and Instagram trends blowing up right now, and how you can copy them for your store (even if you’re not a content creator).
Trend 1: “How life feels…” with Manchild by Sabrina Carpenter
Sound: https://www.tiktok.com/music/Manchild-7512614068864960513
Format: Show a moment that feels too good, like someone finally showing up with your order.
Why it works: The song is everywhere, and people love using it to exaggerate those “ahhh” moments.
How to use it as a local franchise:
- Record a short clip of a happy customer getting their favorite order.
- Add overlay text like:
- “How life feels when your [fries / coffee / haircut / package] is actually ready on time 😌”
- “How life feels when you get a (insert your product) after a bad day”
- Use trending tags like #YourCity #YourProduct
💡 Tip: Don’t overthink it. The more casual it looks, the better it performs.
Trend 2: “Nice to Meet You” handshake
Sound: https://www.tiktok.com/music/Illegal-7508114538018605847
Format: This trend shows someone holding anything like a cigarette, yes, even oversized items, as if it’s their little moment of peace. It’s short, silent, and aesthetic, with the signature caption: “Just a little something to take the edge off.”
Why it works: The structure makes it easy to plug your brand into a fun moment, it’s playful, personal, and great for reaching local audiences who scroll with sound on.
How to use it as a local franchise:
- Film a short 5–7 second clip with two staff members or customers shaking hands.
- Add overlay text like:
- Salon: “You looking for a quick glow-up?” → “Our $10 brow wax special 👀”
- Pizza place: “You looking for a Friday night plan?” → “We’ve got 2-for-1 slices 🍕”
- Ice cream shop: “You craving something cold?” → “Try our Summer Swirl 🍦
Trend 3: “Probably not the answer, but…”
Sound: https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7504741502504520470
Format: Text overlay that reads something like: “The answer to my problems probably isn’t [thing]… but I’ll go check just to be sure.”
Creators pair this with oddly specific “solutions” like a caramelized banana latte, a new haircut, or a last-minute trip.
Why it works: It’s relatable, funny, and super flexible. It makes people stop and think “yeah… mood.”
How to use it as a local franchise:
Show off a product, service, or location with a touch of humor. Add text overlay like:
- “The answer to my problems probably isn’t a Summer Swirl Blizzard… but I’ll go and check just to be sure.”
- “The answer to my burnout probably isn’t a $25 massage, but I’ll go and check just to be sure.”
- “The answer to my stress probably isn’t a pizza party at [Your Franchise Name], but I’ll go and check just to be sure.””
Trend 4: “Just a little something to take the edge off”
Sound: https://www.tiktok.com/music/deep-in-it-7202979845666540293
Format: This trend shows someone holding anything like a cigarette, yes, even oversized items, as if it’s their little moment of peace. It’s short, silent, and aesthetic, with the signature caption: “Just a little something to take the edge off.”
Why it works: It’s visual, vibey, and super easy to recreate.
How to use it as a local franchise:
Film a 5–8 second video of someone holding your product, tool, or favorite item like a cigarette.
Add the trending song in the image. Overlay the exact phrase: “Just a little something to take the edge off”
Here are some plug-and-play examples:
- Ice Cream Shop: Holding a dipped cone
- Salon: Someone holding a pair of lashes in their box
- Retail Store: Someone holding a tote bag or any other product
- Gym or Wellness Brand: Trainer holding a protein shake or a small weight
- Nail Tech: Close-up of a sparkly set of press-on nails
Let’s be honest.
You don’t need to go viral. You just need to show up in a way that feels like you.
These trends work because they’re simple, honest, and easy to plug into real life at your store.
Try one this week. Film it on your phone. Make it local. And see what happens.
If you want help turning these ideas into content that actually brings in customers, let’s talk.
Book a free strategy call and we’ll figure it out together.
