Preparing Your Small Business for the Holiday Season: Marketing, Inventory & Staffing Tips

The final months of the year represent a crucial time for many small businesses, especially in retail, hospitality, and service-based industries. Whether you’ve been through several holiday seasons or this is your first as a business owner, planning ahead can be the difference between a successful year-end and a stressful one.

At the Tarleton Small Business Development Center (SBDC), we’re here to help you prepare for the busiest time of the year with practical, actionable tips in the areas that matter most: marketing, inventory, and staffing.

1. Get Your Holiday Marketing Strategy in Place

A thoughtful marketing plan can help you stand out in the crowded holiday season.

• Plan Holiday Promotions Early: Think through any discounts, bundles, or gift cards you’ll offer. Tie promotions to key shopping dates like Black Friday, Small Business Saturday (Nov 29), and Cyber Monday.

• Use Email Marketing: Send out a holiday newsletter to your customers with exclusive deals or early-bird specials.

• Update Your Website & Social Media: Add a festive touch to your branding and clearly display holiday hours, shipping deadlines, and promotions.

• Promote Giftable Items or Services: Showcase bestsellers, gift cards, or experiences that make for great holiday gifts.

Pro Tip: Don't forget to highlight your business's local roots. More consumers are shopping small and shopping local. Use that to your advantage!

 2. Review and Manage Inventory Wisely

Running out of key products—or overordering slow movers—can impact your bottom line.

• Look at Last Year’s Sales Data: Identify your top-selling items and reorder accordingly.

• Stock Up Strategically: Factor in longer lead times and potential supplier delays.

• Bundle Products: Encourage larger purchases by creating holiday gift bundles or themed kits.

• Organize Your Space: Whether you operate a storefront or a storage room, make sure your setup allows for easy access and faster fulfillment.

Bonus Tip: If you sell online, double-check that your product listings are accurate and up to date across all platforms.

 3. Plan for Holiday Staffing Needs

The holidays can put extra pressure on your team. Make sure you're prepared.

• Assess Your Staffing Levels: Consider bringing on seasonal help if needed. Start the hiring process early!

• Set a Holiday Schedule: Be clear about who’s working which days, and communicate any time-off deadlines.

• Cross-Train Employees: Ensure your staff can help out in multiple roles as needed.

• Boost Team Morale: A little appreciation goes a long way. Consider small holiday bonuses, flexible scheduling, or a staff celebration.

4. Final Touches: Operations, Finances, and Compliance

Before the holiday season kicks off, take a few final steps to ensure smooth operations.

• Extend Your Hours: Consider opening earlier or closing later if customer demand increases.

• Communicate with Customers: Post holiday hours and shipping cutoffs in-store and online.

• Review Your Budget: Account for increased expenses like marketing, payroll, or inventory.

• Stay Compliant: Make sure your sales tax permits, insurance, and payroll systems are current.

Don’t Forget: Small Business Saturday is November 29, 2025!

This nationally recognized day is an excellent opportunity to promote your business, especially if you’re located in a small town or Main Street corridor. Get involved in local events, partner with neighboring businesses, and use the hashtag #ShopSmall to join the conversation online.