Last-Minute Holiday Marketing Ideas That Still Pack a Punch
Because it’s not too late to show up, sell well, and make an impact
If you're staring down the holiday season wondering how it snuck up on you—you're not alone. Maybe the fall flew by, or your year-end goals took priority, and suddenly it's December and you're feeling behind. The good news? You can still create a powerful, profitable holiday campaign—even at the last minute.
Here’s the secret: holiday marketing doesn’t have to be complex to be effective. You just need a few smart, strategic moves that meet your audience where they are—busy, a little overwhelmed, and looking for convenience and connection.
Let’s dive into quick, realistic holiday marketing ideas that you still have time to pull off.
1. Promote a “Gift-Ready” Offer
Whether you're a service provider or product-based business, you can frame something you already offer as a holiday-ready solution.
Highlight fast shipping, gift cards, or local pickup
Bundle bestsellers or services as “Gifts for Her / Him / The Hard-to-Buy-For”
Position a January service as “Give the Gift of ___ in the New Year”
Even if you don’t have physical products, you can sell the idea of giving someone transformation, time, or ease.
2. Run a Flash Sale or "12 Days of Promos"
If you don’t have time for a big campaign, try a limited-time flash sale or daily deals leading up to a key date. These work great because they create urgency and require minimal planning.
Ideas:
1 product or service discounted for 24 hours
Freebie add-ons (like free shipping, bonus content, or upgrades)
Countdown to holiday deadlines (final shipping date, last day to book)
Keep it simple—design a few graphics, prep the copy, and schedule it out.
3. Send a Thoughtful, Seasonal Email
If you’ve been quiet on your email list, this is the perfect time to re-engage with a value-driven holiday message.
Options:
A curated gift guide featuring your offerings
A heartfelt thank-you to your community + a limited-time offer
A “Still Shopping?” email with last-minute recommendations
You can even send a “New Year, New You” teaser to prep your audience for a January offer.
4. Optimize What You Already Have
If you don’t have time to build something new, look at what’s already working—and amplify it.
Add urgency banners to your website ("Order by Dec. 18!")
Update product descriptions to reflect gift-giving
Pin holiday-relevant posts to the top of your social feeds
Reshare past holiday content with a fresh twist
Sometimes it’s not about doing more, but doing the right things again—with intention.
5. Show Up With Connection, Not Just Conversion
People buy from people they trust—and during the holidays, genuine connection matters more than ever.
Share personal stories or traditions
Post a video talking about how you’re feeling this season
Thank your customers publicly and sincerely
If you can’t launch a full campaign, show up consistently and warmly. It makes a difference.
You don’t need an elaborate strategy or months of prep to make an impact this holiday season. All you need is a clear message, a warm presence, and a few well-timed touchpoints that help your audience feel seen, supported, and ready to buy.
So if you’ve been thinking it’s “too late” to market for the holidays—think again. You’ve still got time, and your audience is still listening.
Need help pulling something together, fast? Reach out—I’ve got ideas and support ready to go.
