Crisp air and colored leaves signal the onset of autumn—everywhere but Miami, that is. While the weather may vary by state, one common thread unites the entire country toward the end of November: Thanksgiving, an opportunity to spend time with family and reflect on life’s gifts. A florist plays an essential part in many family events, from birthdays to weddings to funerals, and Thanksgiving is no different. While your clients and their loved ones gobble up delicious meals, a beautiful floral arrangement will add cheer to their table. Here are some helpful tips to help your floral business make the most of this favorite fall holiday:
1. Show your gratitude to your customers. Without clients, your floral business wouldn’t exist. Fall holidays are a great time of year to express just how important your clients are. It can be as simple as a marketing postcard with a fall design that says, “We are grateful for your business,” or a Thanksgiving discount shared via social media. A little appreciation goes a long way!
2. Spread warmth in your shop with pleasant fall decorations that showcase your product. A classic autumnal wreath on the door invites customers to explore what other fall offerings you may carry. Involve the whole family, have a contest where the customer’s children decorate the store fronts with turkeys and autumn leaves. Best entries will be featured in social media platforms and company website.
3. Promote seasonal products such as centerpieces for Thanksgiving tables and door wreaths with autumn leaves. Other specialty items may include fall-scented candles, pumpkins, greeting cards, or small host gifts for Thanksgiving gatherings.
4. Introduce Thanksgiving early via social media or mail marketing campaigns. Announce the availability of seasonal arrangements on your Facebook page as early as November first so that Thanksgiving flowers do not become an afterthought. Popular flower choices might feature orange and red hues with autumn touches—flowers, acorns, walnuts, etc.
5. Give thanks by giving back. Host an Instagram or Facebook contest asking clients to post a photo of something they’re grateful for, encouraging creativity and originality. Ask clients to use a unique hashtag with your company’s name and select a winner to receive a specialty floral item, such as a Thanksgiving arrangement or centerpiece. It’s always thoughtful to post “runner-ups” or other entries that did not necessarily win to make clients feel special.
6. Embrace Black Friday. While Black Friday may sound stressful to some, it is a great way to move extra product the day after Thanksgiving when many folks have the day off work. Focus on the positives of Thanksgiving by asking customers to post their favorite photo from their meal, and give any participants a Black Friday discount code for your floral products.