The holiday season is here, and you know what that means—endless sales, emails screaming “20% OFF!” and customers scrolling past them like they’re dodging fruitcake. If you’re tired of blending into the discount chaos, it’s time to shake things up. Because here’s the truth: loyal customers aren’t made with markdowns; they’re forged through experiences.
This year, ditch the discount addiction and try these fresh, creative holiday marketing tactics that’ll keep your customers coming back long after the Christmas lights are boxed up.
🎄Host Exclusive Holiday Experiences
Fact: people remember experiences far more than products. A study by EventTrack found that 91% of participants felt more positively about a brand after attending an event, and 85% said they were likely to make a purchase as a result.
So, instead of just slapping “SALE” on your website, host a memorable holiday experience that aligns with your brand:
For the Fashionistas: Hold a holiday styling workshop. Let your customers play dress-up and leave with a foolproof outfit for their office party. Bonus points for offering a glass of bubbly.
For the Cookie Monsters: If you’re a bakery, throw a cookie-decorating class. Families will love it, and their Instagram posts will be free advertising for you.
Why this works: You’re not just selling products; you’re creating traditions. That’s the kind of warm, fuzzy brand association no Black Friday deal can beat.
🎁 Surprise and Delight Your Customers
Imagine opening your online order and finding not just your purchase but a handwritten note thanking you for your support. Feels great, right? That’s because studies show 68% of customers leave a brand because they feel the company doesn’t care about them. So, show some love!
Add a personalized thank-you card to each order. A simple “We appreciate you!” written by a human hand goes a long way.
Share a holiday playlist with your email subscribers. Think Mariah Carey classics and cozy instrumental tunes—because nothing says “I care” like the gift of good vibes.
Surprises don’t have to be big to be impactful, but they do have to be thoughtful. (Pro tip: skip the glitter—it’s festive until someone has to clean it up.)
✨ Offer Personalized Shopping Experiences
Ever feel like holiday shopping is just one big, chaotic scavenger hunt? Your customers do, too. Help them out by curating the perfect gifts and making the process fun and stress-free.
Virtual Shopping Consultations: Think personal shopper, but via Zoom. Help customers navigate your inventory and recommend the perfect gifts for their picky mother-in-law or teenage nephew.
Gift Boxes with Personality: Bundle your products into themed sets like "The Self-Care Enthusiast" or "The Foodie Who Eats Before Instagramming." People love convenience, and you’ll love the extra sales.
Personalization works because it takes the guesswork out of shopping. In fact, 80% of consumers are more likely to make a purchase when brands offer personalized experiences (Epsilon, 2021).
💡 Why These Brilliant Holiday Marketing Tactics Work
Here’s the secret sauce: emotions drive purchases, not discounts. The best holiday marketing touches the heart, not just the wallet. And it pays off—literally. Brands with high emotional engagement see 63% higher customer retention rates.
Memorable Moments: Hosting events or adding thoughtful touches makes your brand unforgettable.
Free Publicity: Customers are far more likely to share unique experiences than talk about a discount they got. Hello, free marketing!
Stronger Loyalty: When customers feel valued, they’re more likely to return. You’re not just making a sale; you’re making a relationship.
🎯 Ready to Level Up Your Holiday Marketing?
At McFarlane Marketing, we’re all about turning casual shoppers into raving fans. Whether you need help planning the perfect event or crafting personalized campaigns, we’re here to make your holiday season merry and bright (and profitable).
📩 Let’s chat about how we can help you implement these and many other brilliant holiday marketing tactics for your customers and make this your best holiday season yet! Because while discounts fade, great memories—and loyal customers—last forever. 🎁
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