10 Intentional Ways to Get a Jump Start on Holiday Revenue

Traditionally, marketers at this time of year are busy trying to attract Black Friday and other shoppers in the days right after Thanksgiving. But thanks to the uptick in pre-Black Friday sales, today’s customers are shopping earlier than ever, spreading out their spending and looking for ways to avoid the December scramble. In fact, nearly half of U.S. shoppers now begin their holiday shopping before Black Friday.

That means November isn’t just the warm-up. It’s your time to shine. With a few smart strategies, you can pull in customers before the big-box stores roll out their doorbusters and get a head start on holiday profits. Here are a few ways to catch shoppers’ attention:

1. Create a “Pre-Holiday Perk” Campaign

Position early shopping as something special. Give early birds their own exclusive event—like “Thankful for You” week or a “Pre-Holiday VIP Preview.”

Offer perks such as:

• An early access sale with limited quantities
• Complimentary gift wrapping for purchases before Thanksgiving
• Bonus loyalty points or small freebies with purchase

Use phrases like “Avoid the rush—shop early and save more” or “Holiday magic starts now” to build urgency and show shoppers what’s in it for them.

2. Partner With Neighboring Businesses

Join forces with nearby retailers, restaurants, and service providers to create a walkable or online “Shop Early, Shop Local” trail.

Each participating business could offer something small (like a $5 coupon or treat) for visitors. when customers visit.

This drives traffic as it reinforces community spirit and keeps dollars circulating locally.

3. Launch a “Grateful Giving” Promotion

People love to feel generous in November. Tap into that with a cause-driven sale. Donate a percentage of early purchases to a local charity, food pantry, or school project or participate in a toy drive and give a special discount to those who donate to it.

For example:

• A bakery could donate a loaf to a shelter or needy family for every dozen cookies sold.
• A restaurant could give a portion of sales on one night to a nonprofit.

When shoppers know their purchase gives back, they’re more likely to buy early and buy more.

4. Bundle for the Busy Buyer

Many shoppers are looking for quick, ready-to-give solutions. Create themed bundles that save them time and make you stand out.

Think:

• “Cozy Night In” kits (candles, cocoa, and socks)
• “Local Taste Tour” boxes with hometown treats
• “Grill Master” or “Self-Care Sunday” sets

Display them prominently and promote them as limited pre-holiday offers. Bonus: they make for great social media photos.

 

5. Host an Experience, Not Just a Sale

Before the crowds hit, give people a reason to linger. Host a small in-store event, tasting, or workshop tied to the season:

• A “Holiday Decorating Tips” night at a home store
• A “Sip & Style” event at a boutique
• A “Pie Pairing” session at a café or winery

Offer special pricing to attendees or a first look at holiday items. Events like these encourage people to shop early and to shop locally again later.

 

6. Reward the “Early Elves”

Give a little something extra to those who shop before Thanksgiving. A small thank-you, like a coupon for their next visit in December, keeps them coming back.

For instance: “Shop in November and get a $10 gift card to use in December.” It’s an easy, low-cost way to extend your holiday revenue window.

 

7. Promote Your November Hours and Offers Early

Don’t assume customers know you’re ready for the holidays. Tell them! Use every channel you can: social media, window signs, email, and your Google Business Profile. (Don’t forget to tell us too!)

Include photos of gift displays, new arrivals, or holiday décor to set the mood. And if you’ll have special hours around Thanksgiving week, post them early. One of the biggest mistakes small businesses make during this time of year is not communicating hours (or assuming because you posted once, that was enough). Many people shop online because they simply assume their favorite local store isn’t open when they want to shop. While that may be the case some of the time (no one in retail is staying open until 1:00 am just in case someone feels the need to shop), if you are extending your hours for the holiday season make sure everyone in town knows.

8. Lean Into Gratitude Messaging

November is naturally about giving thanks so it’s a great marketing theme. Share posts thanking your loyal customers, featuring favorite local places or other businesses, or highlighting team members.

People are more likely to support a business that feels human and heartfelt. Gratitude builds trust, and trust leads to sales.

 

9. Offer Early Access to Gift Cards or Experiences

Gift cards are the unsung hero of early holiday marketing. Promote them as stress-free gifts before Thanksgiving with a small incentive: “Buy a $50 gift card, get $10 for yourself.”

Restaurants, spas, and service businesses can pair cards with small add-ons—like a dessert, a product sample, or a digital thank-you card featuring local art.

If you don’t have your own gift card program, become a participating merchant in ours. <chambers with a local gift card, insert your info here>

10. Market to the “Planners and Procrastinators”

Create messaging that speaks to both types of shoppers. For planners: emphasize peace of mind and avoiding the rush. For procrastinators: highlight easy solutions and limited availability.

Example captions:

• “The best gifts don’t wait until December.”
• “Plan ahead, shop now, and then relax while everyone else stands in line.”

November is full of potential for small businesses willing to act early. That’s why we started Small Business Season on November 1^st. Remember, we’re here to help promote your events, amplify your message, and connect you with other local businesses doing the same. Together, we can make Small Business Season the highlight of the year.