Holiday marketing 2021: think outside the digital toolbox

During the holiday season, get customers excited about your products and offerings with virtual events or in-store specials. Then, get the word out. Personalized postcards that feature key details of your events and offerings are the perfect promotional outlet. In addition to all of the critical information, tease incentives like discount codes and gift-wrapping services.

Another way to appeal to holiday customers is to introduce a selection of seasonal products or services. Spas can offer a rejuvenation package that helps customers feel fabulous for the new year. Restaurants might offer a list of seasonal drinks or desserts made with festive ingredients. And retail stores could offer a themed giveaway - think, the 12 days of Christmas.

Then, spread the word about your holiday specials with a brochure. Not only can you display brochures in your brick-and-mortar shop, office, and local community centers, but you can mail them to potential customers and send them home with shoppers.

Everyone is already excited for 2022 - build on customer enthusiasm for the new year with customized calendars. Add on-brand imagery and personalized dates to remind your best customers of upcoming sales, holidays and more. Calendars are effective (and affordable!) ways to stay top of mind all year long - they're often displayed in high-traffic areas, so your customers will constantly be reminded that you're open for business.

Sending Christmas cards to clients is a common practice. But once the holidays are over, your card (most likely) gets thrown away. Personalized mugs, on the other hand, get used on a daily basis, making them a lasting medium for a thank-you message. Mugs can also make great gifts for employees, who might use them outside the office and attract attention to your brand.

The holidays are a busy time of year, so you're sure to see a lot of foot traffic from both new and returning customers in December. But how can you ensure these customers come back once the rush is over? Seasonal flyers are a fantastic, cost-effective way to encourage one-off customers to come back. Before the holiday season, order a large quantity of flyers promoting an enticing bounce-back offer that's only valid after the holiday rush. Throughout the season, display them prominently, and send one home with everyone who walks through the door or places an online order.

One of the easiest ways to extend the reach of your small business is to give away free clothing and accessories. These gifts act as traveling advertisements, showcasing your brand and logo wherever wearers go.

Tote bags are sure to make an appearance at grocery stores and local markets, while drawstring backpacks are great for hiking excursions, beach days, and bike rides. Branded T-shirts offer even more real estate to advertise your business and make customers feel like part of your community.