Before you know it, our calendar year will be winding down, bringing with it that magical time of the year when families gather to create warm memories. As a floral business, it is your goal to help brighten these family celebrations. The month of December is a prime time to increase floral revenue, but the holidays tend to sneak up on us. Beat the holiday rush and prepare for a successful season with the following tips!

1. Spread holiday cheer in your storefront and through your customer service. Encourage staff members to maintain a merry spirit, especially considering that holiday preparations can be stressful for your clients—a smile goes a long way! Asking your staff members to wear a small holiday accessory is an easy way to accomplish this, as is decorating your storefront with string lights, Christmas trees, and menorahs.

2. Add some holiday flare. Now’s the perfect time to get creative with your presentation! Consider investing in beautiful packaging and themed gift bags for the holiday season, making it easy for guests to gift your arrangements or leave a lasting impression. Don’t forget to add a festive tag or bow with your shop’s name.

3. Get in the giving mood. The holidays are a great time to focus on the gift of giving—why not brighten up a local hair salon, jewelry store, bank, or café with a free arrangement? Not only will they appreciate the gesture and be more likely to consider your business in the future, but it is the best way to showcase your products almost for free!

4. Consider your clients during this busy time by staying open later on certain days, having free hot chocolate or coffee in store to fuel those tired shoppers, and making holiday items easy to spot in your store and online.

5. Festive floral arrangements are a hit at any holiday party. Focus on stunning centerpieces that can dress a table at Christmas Eve, or poinsettia-themed pieces for a holiday office party. Unleash your originality with little bells, bows, woodland-themed pieces, craft snowflakes, and more.

6. Cross-cultural celebrations are important to keep in mind—rather than catering just to Christmas, remember other holidays such as Hanukah and Kwanza. For your clients who may not celebrate any of these holidays, or who are seeking a more neutral display, offer “winter-themed” arrangements that are more generic. A little inclusion goes a long way in making many different types of customers feel welcome!