4 Easy Steps to Prepare for Your Small Business Holiday Sales
It’s finally that time of the year – the holiday season! And you know what that means? It’s time to gear up for your small business holiday sales! No matter how you celebrate the holiday season, there’s no denying that Q4 of the year (between Black Friday, Christmas, Boxing Day, and more), people are spending more money. It’s not surprising that most small businesses find this to be one of their most profitable quarters of the year!
Every year, alongside my wedding calligraphy services, I’ve been selling custom Christmas ornaments on Etsy (since November and December tend to be a bit slower in the wedding industry). Today, I’m excited to share 4 tips to help you get all set for your small business holiday sales!
1. Determine Where You Are Going to Sell
Did this one surprise you on a list for preparing for your small business holiday sales? If your new in business, this might be a big decision for you and I would love to encourage you to think beyond only advertising on Instagram or your own website (although those are important too!). If you don’t have an audience yet though, consider online marketplaces like Etsy that will put your products in front of prospective buyers for you.
Depending on your product, the holiday season is also a great time to try out in person markets as well. Many potential customers who already value supporting small and local businesses will be there ready to shop!
If you’re a more established business planning to sell primarily through your own website shop, now is a great time to do some updates and make sure your virtual storefront is in tip top shape! I talk more about what I’ve been updating behind the scenes over here.
2. Plan Your Small Business Holiday Sales Promotions
As a small business owner, launching a Black Friday sale or Christmas-specific products requires planning and foresight. To make the most of the perfect seasonal shopping rush, you want to pick the right launch date to promote your small business holiday sales. Is it just me, or does Black Friday get earlier and earlier every year? You don’t want to get lost in the noise because you started planning too late.
Additionally, you need to plan out how you’re going to promote the sale or products. Social media posts and email newsletters are popular (free) methods for spreading awareness but other forms of promotion (like print media or SEO content) should be considered as well. I don’t really talk about it but prioritizing SEO content is a huge part of my own marketing strategy as a small business owner. I can’t recommend it enough!
3. Get Your Supplies Ready
After many years promoting small business holiday sales, I can tell you that this is often one of the things that gets overlooked the most as the small business holiday sales season approaches. Remember – your suppliers are going to be busier than usual too! Getting ready for holiday sales is not just about marketing, but also getting the necessary supplies to make and package your products. Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and mailing labels are all essential for getting your small business holiday sales items ready to ship. Don’t forget about thank you cards too! Include one with each order or package as a special way of showing your appreciation for your customers’ support.
4. Create Your Products + Update Your Listings In Advance Of Your Small Business Holiday Sales
Last but not least, it’s time to create your products (if you want to have extra stock before the holidays). As you create them, take the time to take product photos for your listings. People are much more likely to purchase a product that looks visually appealing than one that does not. It’s important to make sure your photos and product designs look as professional and polished as possible. Even if you don’t have access to professional photography equipment, practice taking photos with your own camera or phone to get better at capturing the image of your product in the most attractive light. It’s worth it – I promise!
Is Your Small Business Ready for Holiday Sales?
As you start to prepare for the holiday season, don’t forget to make time to celebrate your wins. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and stick with the same routine, but investing in yourself is important too! Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to recognize all that you have accomplished this year. Setting aside time for celebrations will remind you of how hard you’ve worked and that it was worth it. The holiday season can be stressful for small business owners but by planning ahead and budgeting time for joy, you can make sure you’re still enjoying the holiday season alongside your hard work. I will be cheering you on as you do!
Want a little extra support during the holiday season? Learn how to work with me here!
