Small Business Saturday lands on November 28 this year, which means you have about three weeks to get ready. Good news: you do not need a big budget or a fancy campaign. You just need a plan and a little consistency.
At Up River Marketing, we love this day. We are a small, woman- and veteran-owned business ourselves, and our North Country neighbors are what keep us going. Our Support Staff, Buoy, Bonnie, Odin, Freya, and Brina, have also been "supervising" this post from under the desk, so you know it is serious business.
Here is how to get your Small Business Saturday marketing rolling.
1. Pick one simple offer
Do not try to run five promotions at once. Choose one clear thing, like a free gift with purchase, a bundle, or a small discount for first-time customers. If you cannot explain it in one sentence, it is too complicated.
Our Heelers have a similar rule. If a treat is involved, the plan is always very clear.
2. Tell your story
Shoppers choose Small Business Saturday because they want to support real people. Show them who you are. Share a photo of your team, your workspace, or the story of why you started. People buy from people, and a friendly face goes a long way.
3. Get your online basics ready
Before you send anyone to your website, make sure it is ready for them. Check that your holiday hours are correct (this is SO important), your contact information is current, and your site loads quickly on a phone. A great promotion can fall flat if the details are wrong when someone shows up.
4. Build a short countdown on social media
Plan three to five posts leading up to the big day. Try a teaser about your offer, a behind-the-scenes look, a customer shout-out, and a "see you Saturday" reminder. Use the same hashtag each time, such as #ShopSmall, plus your town name so locals can find you.
Scheduling these posts ahead of time keeps you from scrambling the week of the event. Remember, consistency beats perfection every time.
5. Email your list and say thank you
Your email list is full of people who already like you, so let them know first. Send one email a week before and a reminder the day before. After the weekend, send a quick thank-you note to everyone who shopped, whether they came in or ordered online. That small gesture is what turns a one-time buyer into a regular.
Small Business Saturday marketing works best when it is simple, friendly, and genuine. Pick one offer, share your story, check your basics, show up consistently, and say thank you. That is a plan any small business can pull off.
Buoy, Bonnie, Odin, Freya, and Brina give it two paws up, or ten, depending on who is counting.
Want a hand getting ready?
If this feels like a lot to juggle, that is exactly why we are here. Up River Marketing can plan, design, and schedule your holiday content so you can focus on running your business. Schedule a FREE Consultation with us today, and let's build a plan that works as hard as you do. You can also reach us at megan@uprivermarketing.com or 315-779-0206.
