Small Business Saturday is more than just a sales opportunity—it’s a celebration of community and the entrepreneurial spirit. Held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect moment to boost your holiday revenue while connecting with loyal (and new!) customers. But how do you make your business stand out from the crowd? Try these unique strategies to make the most of Small Business Saturday.
Contents
- 1. Offer Exclusive ‘Only Today’ Bundles
- 2. Create a ‘Spin-to-Win’ Wheel
- 3. Collaborate with Other Local Businesses
- 4. Host a Live Shopping Event (In-Person or Online)
- 5. Give a Gift with Purchase—But Make It Local
- 6. Send a ‘VIP Early Access’ Invite to Your Email List
- 7. Offer ‘Shop Small Bucks’ to Redeem in December
- 8. Use Storytelling in Your Displays and Marketing
- 9. Decorate with Purpose
- 10. Ask for Support Beyond Purchases
- Final Thought
1. Offer Exclusive ‘Only Today’ Bundles
Create curated bundles that are only available on Small Business Saturday. Whether you’re a online boutique, bakery, or service provider, you can group products or services together at a discounted price to encourage larger purchases.
Example: A skincare store could offer a “Winter Glow Kit” with cleanser, moisturizer, and lip balm bundled for the day.
2. Create a ‘Spin-to-Win’ Wheel
Set up a digital or physical prize wheel that customers can spin after making a purchase. Include prizes like small discounts, free samples, or gift cards to use in December.
Bonus: This keeps people engaged longer and adds fun to the experience!
3. Collaborate with Other Local Businesses
Form a local alliance and cross-promote each other’s stores. You can do a “Shop Hop” passport where customers get a stamp or punch at each store visited for a chance to win a local prize pack.
4. Host a Live Shopping Event (In-Person or Online)
People love seeing products in action. Go live on social media or host a local event with product demos, styling tips, or holiday gift guides. Offer exclusive deals to those who tune in or attend.
5. Give a Gift with Purchase—But Make It Local
Partner with another small business to provide a freebie with purchases. For example, a boutique could gift a handmade soap from a local crafter or a cookie from a nearby bakery. This supports fellow small businesses and surprises your shoppers.
6. Send a ‘VIP Early Access’ Invite to Your Email List
Reward your best customers with early access to your Small Business Saturday deals. Let them shop before the crowd and maybe even include a special freebie or coupon just for them.
7. Offer ‘Shop Small Bucks’ to Redeem in December
Give shoppers a $5–10 coupon (with minimum purchase) to use in December. It brings them back during the slower post-Thanksgiving slump and encourages repeat business.
8. Use Storytelling in Your Displays and Marketing
People love a good origin story. Share yours on signage, social media, or even handwritten notes in shopping bags. Show customers who they’re supporting when they shop small—you.
9. Decorate with Purpose
Make your space (or website) festive and photo-ready. Include a branded hashtag and encourage selfies. You can even set up a mini photo booth with props to make shopping memorable.
Tip: Repost customer photos to build buzz and show appreciation.
10. Ask for Support Beyond Purchases
Some people can’t shop, but they can still support your business. Ask them to leave a review, tag a friend, or share your posts. Create easy-to-share content and ask directly for the share—don’t be shy!
Final Thought
Small Business Saturday is your moment to shine, so don’t be afraid to infuse personality, fun, and creativity into your promotions. The more memorable the experience, the more likely customers will come back long after the holiday season is over.
