I will tell you a good idea that I find works better than specials, and that is bartering. Many clients here are in professions in which we spend time and money. Take a Dermatologist for example....I can't tell you the number of free Botox and Juviderm injections I have gotten in return for free dates. One round of Botox for me is around $600, and the docs pay maybe $15 bucks for that.
I have also bartered for dental work, cosmetic surgery, and of course vehicles lol. I also know a few Chefs and Hotel Managers, which really do come in handy when touring. I even bartered for a case of tanning lotion once being the price was right. I got a six month supply at cost, for only one date.