🎄 It's nearly time for Christmas in July folks! 🎅

We know we are only just starting to enjoy some much-needed sunshine but for all of us marketers, Christmas is literally around the corner. Over the years, we have often found ourselves crowded around a steaming turkey when the outside temperature is in the 20s so here is our top advice on how to get ahead of the crowd and get your seasonal plans in order.

1️⃣ Start Early: Don't wait until the last minute! Begin planning your Christmas marketing strategy now. By getting a head start, you'll have ample time to create compelling content and engage with your audience effectively.

2️⃣ Understand Early Shoppers: Did you know that 40% of customers start their holiday shopping before Halloween? Cater to these early birds by having your ads, press releases, and products ready to go by September. Be where your customers are and capture their attention ahead of the competition.

3️⃣ Collaborate with the Media: Journalists start preparing for Christmas early too. Build relationships with media professionals and pitch your unique offerings. Securing early media coverage can generate buzz and increase your brand's visibility during the holiday season.

4️⃣ Showcase Festive Delights: Get creative with your Christmas product lineup. Craft special holiday offerings and delightful flavours that capture the spirit of the season. Stand out from the crowd with unique and enticing options that will make mouths water. Every year it is reds, greens and golds that grace the shopping pages and always a press call for advent calendars too!

5️⃣ Create Engaging Content: Develop high-quality visuals, compelling product descriptions, and captivating social media posts. Leverage the power of storytelling to evoke emotions and connect with your audience on a deeper level. 

6️⃣ Plan Seasonal Promotions: Offer attractive deals and discounts to entice holiday shoppers. Plan your sales and promotions strategically, considering key dates like Black Friday. Craft compelling messaging that highlights the value and excitement of your limited-time offers.

7️⃣ Provide Exceptional Customer Experience: Make your customers' lives easier during the busy holiday season. Offer convenient shipping options, provide helpful gift guides, and ensure prompt customer support. Stand out by going the extra mile to exceed their expectations.

8️⃣ Embrace the Spirit of Giving: Use this festive time to give back to your community. Partner with local charities and support causes aligned with your brand values. Engage your customers by involving them in your charitable initiatives and spreading goodwill.

9️⃣ Streamline Your Campaigns: Utilize social media scheduling tools and email automation platforms to streamline your marketing efforts. This allows you to plan, schedule, and deliver your content consistently, saving time and ensuring a cohesive brand presence.