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Why October is the Perfect Time to Launch Your Holiday Marketing Campaign

by | Oct 25, 2024 | Blog

local business holiday promotions 2024

As pumpkin-spice everything hits the shelves and shoppers begin making their holiday lists, now is the perfect time to get a head start on your holiday marketing strategy. Whether you’re a retail store or a service-based business, preparing early positions you to attract more customers as the holiday season gains momentum.

From boosting online visibility to local partnerships, here’s why acting in October matters—and how your business can capitalize on the festive spirit to drive engagement and sales.

Table of Contents

1. Why Early Holiday Marketing Works

2. Leverage the “Support Local Business” Movement

3. Holiday Marketing Tips for Businesses

      • Social Media Marketing
      • Website Optimization
      • Email Campaigns
      • Local Partnerships

4. Marketing Ideas for Service-Based Businesses

5. Special Strategies for Holiday-Centric Businesses

6. Maximize Your Holiday Success

Why Early Holiday Marketing Works

Starting early helps your business build visibility in search engines and social media. It takes time for Google to index new content, so what you post now will rank better when holiday traffic peaks. Early preparation ensures your business stays top of mind when shoppers are ready to spend.

October also gives you time to tweak campaigns and assess what resonates with customers—helping you refine your strategy by the time Black Friday and Christmas rush begin.

Leverage the “Support Local Business” Movement

This year, more people are looking to support local businesses in Shreveport and beyond. Shoppers want their spending to make an impact, especially given recent economic challenges and natural disasters. Highlighting your community ties helps your business stand out and makes customers feel good about choosing you.

💡 Pro Tip:
Feature local partnerships and charity work in your marketing efforts. Collaborate with other local businesses or the Greater Shreveport Chamber to promote the value of shopping local this season.

Holiday Marketing Tips for Businesses

  1. Social Media Marketing

Ramp up your presence on social media to reach customers before the season gets hectic. Here’s how:

    • Post Consistently: Begin posting daily or even multiple times a day to boost your visibility in algorithms.
    • Use Holiday-Themed Hashtags: Incorporate trending hashtags such as #HolidayShopping2024 or #SupportLocalShreveport.
    • Share Behind-the-Scenes Content: Show what goes into making your products or services. Personal touches build trust.
    • Offer Flash Sales and Giveaways: Condition followers to check your posts regularly by offering limited-time deals.
    • Provide Holiday Planning Tools: Create checklists and resources (like “Holiday Gift Planning Made Easy”) to help customers get ahead.
  1. Website Optimization

Make sure your website is ready to welcome holiday shoppers:

    • Update Your Homepage: Add seasonal banners, holiday hours, and featured promotions (e.g., “Shop Local for Christmas in Shreveport!”).
    • Use Holiday Keywords: Incorporate search terms like “holiday hair styles,” “seasonal home décor,” or “pre-holiday home refresh.”
    • Create a Gift Guide Page: Add a dedicated landing page for gift ideas—great for SEO and customer convenience.
  1. Email Marketing Campaigns

Email campaigns help keep your audience engaged and ready to shop:

    • Segment Your Audience: Send personalized offers—like a “Thank You” discount to loyal customers and first-time deals for new subscribers.
    • Send Holiday Newsletters: Share promotions, event details, or holiday tips to keep customers in the loop.
    • Collect Emails with Promotions: Offer small discounts or entry into a giveaway to encourage sign-ups.
  1. Build Local Partnerships

Collaborating with other businesses builds goodwill and expands your audience:

    • Cross-Promote with Local Businesses: Partner with a nearby boutique or coffee shop to create holiday deals (e.g., “Shop here and get a free coffee!”).
    • Sponsor Community Events: Participate in local charity drives or events organized by the Greater Shreveport Chamber.
    • Share Your Promotions with the Chamber: Let the Chamber promote your offers on their platforms for additional exposure.

Marketing Ideas for Service-Based Businesses

Even if your business doesn’t sell traditional gifts, holiday marketing can still work for you!

    • Plumbers, Electricians, and Handymen:
      Promote “Pre-Holiday Home Checkups” to help homeowners prepare for guests. Offer discounts on emergency services.
    • Cleaning Services and Professional Organizers:
      Market “Holiday Home Refresh Packages” that include deep cleaning or decluttering for stress-free hosting.
    • Babysitters and Pet Sitters:
      Offer holiday childcare and pet care services to free up time for parents during busy holiday events. Promote special packages for long days or overnight stays.
    • Financial Planners, Insurance Agents, and Lawyers:
      Market “Peace of Mind Packages” that help customers organize finances or review insurance policies. This unique gift idea offers long-term benefits—something thoughtful for people who “have everything.”

Special Strategies for Holiday-Centric Businesses

If your business is already aligned with the holiday season, amplify your visibility with these strategies:

    • Restaurants:
      Promote holiday menus and party reservations. Partner with local stores to offer discounts (e.g., “Show a receipt from a local shop and get 10% off your meal!”).
    • Hair Stylists, Spas, and Beauty Professionals:
      Encourage early bookings with offers like “Book two services, get a holiday gift bag.” Use seasonal scents and products to attract holiday customers.
    • Retail Stores and Boutiques:
      Create in-store events such as trunk shows or style consultations. Offer gifts with purchase or enter shoppers into a raffle to encourage spending.

Maximize Your Holiday Success

The holiday season is already on people’s minds—make sure your business stays on theirs! By starting early, building visibility, and engaging with your audience, you’ll set yourself up for success.

Remember:

    • Promote the value of shopping local and supporting Shreveport businesses.
    • Use email campaigns, social media, and local partnerships to drive traffic and engagement.
    • Offer thoughtful services and promotions that align with customer needs and holiday stressors.

Start implementing these strategies today, and watch your business thrive during the most wonderful time of the year!

 

🎄 Ready to promote your business this holiday season? Contact the Greater Shreveport Chamber to learn how we can help you share your holiday events, specials, and offers with the community.

FAQ: Holiday Marketing for Small Businesses

Q: When should I start holiday marketing?
A: It’s best to start in October to build visibility and stay top of mind when customers are ready to buy.

Q: How can I attract local shoppers?
A: Highlight your involvement in the community and offer discounts for shopping local. Partnering with other businesses or events is a great way to boost visibility

 

By: Christina Metcalf