Marketing ideas that'll increase sales during the holiday season

The holiday season is here which means it's the perfect time to do many things you can't do any other time of the year when it comes to marketing your business. We're here to make marketing easier for you so here are seven marketing ideas you can put to work for you to boost your sales and increase clientele:

1. Twelve days of Christmas: While not completely original, this marketing idea can help you drive more sales if you're a product-based business. It can also help your customers learn more about your full offering of goods. For the twelve days leading up to Christmas, run a 24 hour sale for a different product. You can put a particular brand of leash on sale for day 12 then jump to puppy treats on day 11. It's really up to you and your business.

2. Photos with Santa: If you have a brick-and-mortar location like a mall or a book store, a chance for kids to get photos with Santa may be an effective way to get families inside for the holidays. You could schedule it for every Saturday until Christmas or even three days a week.

3. Emails made festive: Take a step away from your typical email design and format for your December email campaign. If it fits your color scheme, try some reds and greens or even gold. If it's not too cheesy and you can make it classy, you can add a little Christmas tree as part of the design.

4. Thank You cards: Gratitude always pays off. Sending personalized Thank You cards to your clients will help you invest in your relationship with them and show that you care. If you have the budget and want to take it to the next level then add a small gift card.

5. Partner with a charity: Commit a portion of your sales during the week of Christmas to your favorite charity. Whether it's a homeless shelter two blocks away or a non-profit that saves puppies, choosing to partner with a charity will help humanize your business. Customers like to know what causes you support and how aware you are of the world around you.

6. Gift basket bundles: Put together gift baskets available for purchase of items that pair really well together. If you own and operate a wine store, offer gift baskets with well-paired cheese. Baby clothing stores can put together outfits perfect for the holiday season. Not all holiday shoppers are decisive when making a purchase so bundling various product offering will help them experience what you have to offer.

7. Holiday party!: This marketing idea will take planning and coordination but it could be something that pays off for many years to come. If you run a shopping center and the weather permits, organize a food truck rally with live music and fun games for all in attendance. Do you have a restaurant? You can host a party where you give out free appetizers and drinks for the first 100 customers on Christmas Eve.

What's your marketing game plan for this holiday season? Have you tried any of these ideas in the past? Share with us in the comments below!