In the News: How does your business stand out during the Holiday Season?

[Pesso]

Hey Newsies,

Last time we talked about Small Business Saturday, so today we’re continuing the Holiday season conversation. Now we’re looking at an article from U.S. News reporting on how small businesses are doing more to stand out this Holiday Season to compete with larger retailers during a shorter shopping season. I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this!

U.S. News: Small Businesses Plan Events, Start Marketing Earlier to Deal With Shorter Holiday Shoppi...

The article explains that this holiday shopping season, there are 5 fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas, so small businesses are doing more to stand out and create a full holiday season experience. It goes into details of how some businesses are offering free giftwrapping services, free gifts with purchase, and holiday cards. Others are creating more bespoke experiential events like designing their own jewelry, to create more meaningful one-of-a-kind gift ideas and create a must-do experience. In order to maximize the shorter timeframe, they’re setting longer hours, and starting sales and these offerings earlier than usual. 

We used to always decorate our ice cream shop with trees and lights and a menorah, just to bring in some of the holiday vibes where we could. I loved making some seasonal flavors like gingerbread, candy cane, and eggnog ice creams, which always helped bring in some folks and encourage them to bring some pints to their holiday parties. We promoted a lot on social media and email newsletters to really give the impression that we were a great addition during the holidays, and tried to stand out and make ice cream a thing for the season. And we had a great gift card discount which led to a lot of sales and a nice cash infusion during the slower months. It worked out pretty well!

A while ago we shared some tips from Community members on how to establish your business as a holiday season destination, as well as how to market your offerings accordingly. We’d love to hear from you on what your business is doing this holiday season!

Share your perspective:

• Are you hosting any events or special offerings for the holiday season?
• Are you feeling the crunch from a shorter shopping timeframe between holidays?  
• How do you think this holiday season will go for your business, compared to last year?

Can’t wait to hear your thoughts!
Pesso

This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance or advice specific to your business, you should consult with a qualified legal professional.

[CareyJo]

I wish I could answer this!! 🤣

[Pesso]

While you definitely don't have a retail business, I totally think there are some things you can do to capitalize on the holiday season, @CareyJo !

In terms of special offerings and just bringing a bit of holiday fun and recognition, your husband can wear a santa hat or red overalls/coveralls to jobs, or give out free candy canes to your customers. You can send out holiday cards (or emails) to your customer database, to keep your business top of mind and encourage them to book a maintenance session. If you do want to offer a lil incentive for booking you by the end of the year (even for work in the beginning of next year), you can work in a free add-on service or something like that. So many options!

[CareyJo]

He normally wears his Grinch hat during this time!  He puts it over the top of his ball cap.  I've sent many of our customers Christmas cards over the years and I've given thank you gifts at Christmas to customers who made large purchases sometime during the year.  I didn't think about mentioning those things!  I haven't done anything festive this year as I've just been too bogged down.  Next year will be better!

[Pesso]

I love all of that, @CareyJo ! Those are such great ways to celebrate and have fun and recognize some of your best customers during this time! Totally get not doing it this year -- I feel like it's been extra busy and tough for everyone to do all of the extras. Next year sounds like a great plan!