Now You See It: Turning Customers into Raving Fans with a Little Everyday Magic

As the owner of the Rohs Opera House, I’ve seen more than a few magic shows over the years—and I’ve learned that great magicians and great businesses have a lot in common.

We’ve hosted Reed Masterson on our stage several times, and every performance has moments that stick with you. One night, he brought a kid from the audience on stage, did a magic trick, and that kid walked away feeling like they were the star of the show. You don’t forget moments like that.

And that’s the point.

Creating raving fans in your business isn’t about pulling rabbits out of hats—it’s about making people feel seen, surprised, and delighted. It’s about turning an ordinary visit into an unforgettable experience.

Here are five classic magician’s secrets that you can use in your business to create a little everyday magic of your own.

1. Set the Stage

Before a magician ever pulls off a trick, they’ve set the tone. At the Rohs, the lights dim, the music swells, and the crowd leans in. The anticipation builds. The experience begins.

For your business:Your stage is your storefront. Your front desk. Your website. What does it feel like when someone walks in (or logs in)? Is it clean? Is it welcoming? Set the stage so customers feel like they’re in for something special—because they are.

2. Master the Unexpected

Magic thrives on surprise. We think we know what’s coming—and then bam, the magician flips the script.

For your business:Give customers something they didn’t expect: a handwritten note in their bag, a free upgrade, a genuine compliment. Small surprises create big loyalty. I’ve seen customers come back to the Rohs not just because of the movie—but because of a moment that made them smile.

3. Make It Personal

The most unforgettable magic happens when someone from the audience becomes part of the show. Just like Reed did with that magic trick with that kid—it wasn’t about the sleight of hand. It was about how it made that one person feel. How people feel after an interaction with you is more important than what they buy from you. It's the difference in someone being a one-time customer or a lifelong fan.

For your business:Greet people by name. Ask about their day. Remember their last order. These touches tell people they’re more than a transaction—they’re part of your story.

4. Create Moments of Wonder

Every great show has a “wow” moment that people talk about on the car ride home. That’s where the magic lingers.

For your business:What can you do that leaves people saying “Wow”? Whether it’s an experience, a product, or a personal touch—find your version of the big reveal. For us at the Rohs, sometimes it's that moment when the whole theater gasps or laughs together. It's magic—and you can create it too.

5. Leave Them Wanting More

Magicians never show you all their tricks. They always leave you wondering what’s next.

For your business:Invite customers back. Offer a “next time” incentive. Keep the conversation going after the sale. When you treat each interaction like the opening act—not the finale—you’ll build a loyal audience that keeps coming back for more.

Final Act: You Don’t Need a Wand to Work Magic

You don’t have to be on a stage to create awe. Every business—yes, even yours—can craft magical moments with thoughtfulness, consistency, and heart.

So ask yourself:👉 What will your customers be talking about on the ride home?👉 What little “wow” moment can you give them today?

Because when it comes to building loyalty, a little magic goes a long way.