Category: Christmas

When the World Feels Dark, Be the Light

I love Christmas lights. As darkness descends earlier each evening and winter skies turn gray, lights begin to appear in storefronts, on lawns, and in the windows of homes. I fill my house with strings of Christmas lights, battery-operated candles, fairy lights, and little Christmas houses that glow from within. They brighten each room with a warm, inviting light. As I drive home from work on the darkest nights of the year, the lights around town and throughout my neighborhood fill me with joy and delight.

Darkness often brings a sense of uncertainty—and sometimes fear or despair—while light conveys life, warmth, and hope. Scripture proclaims Jesus Christ as the Light of the world. God sent Him into a sin-darkened world to shine the light of hope and eternal life.

In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:4–5)

At Christmas, many of us make a special effort to shine Christ’s light into the world by sharing the blessings God has given us. We donate to organizations such as the Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, and Samaritan’s Purse. We give food and money to food pantries. We try to bless those who are less fortunate, remembering that Christ challenged us to serve Him by serving others. We are a little more patient with store clerks, hold doors open, and smile at strangers. We make an effort to show that Christmas truly is a season of hope and goodwill.

Those who do not know Jesus as Lord and Savior are living in spiritual darkness. They do not yet experience the joy of forgiven sin or the peace that comes from a personal relationship with God. As believers, we are called to share God’s love so that others may have the opportunity to know Him.

Jesus instructed His disciples,

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Shining Christ’s light is not limited to the Christmas season. We are called to reflect His love every day of the year. There are many simple, meaningful ways to do this.

Speak words of encouragement to those who are discouraged. You likely encounter people each week who feel overwhelmed or weary. Offer them hope and reassurance. “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Engage in acts of kindness. A smile, a kind word, or a small gesture of care can have a lasting impact. “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)

Practice integrity in all your dealings. Be honest and above reproach in the way you live and work. “In everything set them an example by doing what is good.” (Titus 2:7–8)

Provide for the needs of others as you are able. Support worthy causes and respond to those who are hurting. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat…” (Matthew 25:35–36)

Demonstrate trust in God by responding with calm and peace when things go wrong. People notice how we handle disappointment, loss, and uncertainty. Let them see that your confidence rests in God. “Do not be anxious about anything… And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6–7)

Offer to pray when others share their burdens. When clients or friends open their hearts, I often ask—when led by the Holy Spirit—if I may pray for them or share their request with my church’s prayer team. Every person has expressed gratitude for that offer. “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” (1 Timothy 2:1)

Be prepared to share your faith when others ask about your peace or hope. When we reflect Christ, people notice—and some will ask what makes us different. Jesus is the answer. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15)

God calls us to be His lights in a dark world—pointing others to Jesus at Christmas and throughout the year. “For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord… For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts.”
(2 Corinthians 4:5–6)

Merry Christmas, and may God bless you richly in the coming year.

A Business Owner’s Guide to Spreading A Season of Generosity

For many of us, December is a season marked by giving. We paused last month to celebrate Thanksgiving and reflect on our many blessings, and now we turn our attention to preparing for Christmas or Hanukkah—holidays that both celebrate God’s goodness to His people.

For those who follow Christ, Christmas is far more than a season of shopping and gift exchanges. It is a time to reflect the love of Christ through intentional acts of generosity. God demonstrated His love through the greatest gift ever given: His Son, sent to live a sinless life and die on the cross to redeem mankind. The journey to the cross began at the manger.

Whether you are a business owner, an employee, or a retiree, you have countless opportunities to show generosity this season and share the love of Christ with those around you. Let these words guide you: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35

Demonstrating Generosity as a Business Owner

If you own a small business, the holiday season provides unique opportunities to bless your customers, employees, and community. Consider these ideas:

  • Support local organizations.
    Donate funds to groups providing meals, warm clothing, or Christmas gifts for families in need. Let your customers know that their support helped make these contributions possible.
  • Participate in an Adopt-a-Family program.
    Sponsor one or more families as a business, inviting your staff and customers to join in meeting specific needs. You can also adopt a military family through organizations like Soldiers’ Angels.
  • Go the extra mile in customer care.
    Offer cookies and hot cider, provide complimentary gift wrapping, or surprise customers with small tokens of appreciation like ornaments or holiday treats. A cheerful greeting and an extra measure of kindness can make a lasting impact.
  • Offer paid volunteer time.
    Give employees a few hours of paid time off to serve at local holiday programs or nonprofit organizations.
  • Bless your team.
    Show gratitude through thoughtful gifts or year-end bonuses to acknowledge their hard work throughout the year.

Demonstrating Generosity as a Community Member

Regardless of income level, everyone can show generosity during the holidays.

  • Make charitable donations.
    Even small contributions to local nonprofits and faith-based organizations make a meaningful impact.
  • Volunteer your time.
    Many groups need help serving meals, wrapping Christmas gifts, hosting events at shelters, and more.
  • Buy gifts for children in need.
    Programs like Toys for Tots and Angel Tree rely on community generosity—collection periods are ending soon, so take action quickly.
  • Visit the elderly.
    Stop by nursing homes, assisted living centers, or the homes of elderly neighbors. Bring carolers, small gifts, or simply warm conversation. Your presence might be the highlight of their season.

Where You Can Still Give This Season

Many organizations are still accepting gifts, donations, and support:

  • The Salvation Army Angel Tree – Adopt a child in need or donate to the Red Kettle campaign through Christmas Eve.
  • Samaritan’s Purse – Build an online shoebox or donate through their gift catalog to support clean water projects, meals for children, or small-business assistance for families.
  • Toys for Tots – New, unwrapped toys are being collected through mid-December, depending on location.
  • Prison Fellowship Angel Tree Christmas – Donate to provide gifts for children with an incarcerated parent.
  • Feeding America or your local food bank – Help ensure families have food this holiday season. These organizations appreciate support year-round.
  • Christmas Spirit Foundation – Donate to provide Christmas trees for military families separated from deployed loved ones.

A Final Encouragement

This Christmas season, keep Christ at the center of your celebrations and be His hands extended to a hurting world. As you share His love and blessings with others, you demonstrate what it means to follow Him.

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34–35

Strengthen Customer Loyalty Through Holiday Experiences

As a small business owner, it’s important that your customers feel connected to you—especially during the holiday season.

A genuine connection builds loyalty and encourages customers to choose your business over competitors. Two meaningful ways to build that connection are by giving back to your community and creating memorable experiences that engage your customers.

Give Back to Your Community

Sharing your blessings with those in need shows customers that your business cares about others. Many consumers today prefer to spend their money with companies that support meaningful causes. Here are some ways your business can give back this season:

Partner with local charities or food banks. Collect donations from customers and staff for organizations such as:

  • Toys for Tots—set up a collection box for toy donations.
    • Salvation Army Angel Tree—host an angel tag tree and accept gift drop-offs.
    • Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child—be a shoebox drop-off location.
    • Your local food bank—gather canned goods and other non-perishable items.

Donate a percentage of holiday profits.

  • Allow customers to choose which charity their purchase supports.
  • Partner with multiple nonprofits to appeal to a wider audience—such as a food bank, animal shelter, Make-a-Wish Foundation, or veterans’ organization.

Partner with nonprofits to provide hands-on service.

  • Team up with a local salon to provide free haircuts at a senior living center.
  • Partner with a disability support organization to host an accessible shopping day, with staff on hand to assist shoppers.
  • Offer free oil changes or car repairs for women living in shelters.

Volunteer together as a team.

  • Close your business for a few hours and volunteer as a group. You might host a holiday party for residents of a women’s shelter, wrap gifts for senior citizens, serve meals at a local soup kitchen, or deliver baked treats to police and fire departments. Volunteering as a team strengthens your workplace culture, boosts morale, and shows your customers that your business genuinely cares about the community.

Create Holiday Experiences

Festive events and experiences encourage customers to visit your business, linger longer, and connect on a personal level.

Host a Holiday Open House.
Many downtown districts hold open houses in November. Create an inviting, festive atmosphere with refreshments, music, and holiday décor. Offer exclusive open house deals or early-bird specials. If your business provides services, consider hosting an open house that also supports a local charity—guests could bring items or donations for a good cause.

Feature Local Artists or Makers.
Partner with local creators to showcase their work in your space.

  • A salon could host a jewelry maker or a permanent makeup artist.
  • A restaurant could feature local artisans in the lobby.
  • A retail shop could hold a trunk show with a vendor.

Host Customer Events.

  • Take photos with Santa or offer a festive photo backdrop.
  • Set up a cookie-decorating or ornament-making station.
  • Offer craft nights or centerpiece-making demonstrations.
  • Host game nights such as holiday bingo or trivia, with small prizes.

Hold Holiday Contests.

  • Run a children’s coloring contest with age-based prizes.
  • Offer daily giveaways for loyalty members.
  • Have a candy-jar guessing contest.
  • Reward customers who post reviews or engage on social media.
  • Post funny holiday photos and let followers caption them for prizes.

Wrapping Up

These ideas can help you connect with customers and strengthen relationships during the holiday season. Start planning your special events and charitable activities now, and you’ll create meaningful memories that keep your customers coming back all year long.

What are some ways your business engages with customers during the holidays? Share your ideas in the comments!

TOP HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR 2025: What Shoppers are Buying this Season

Whether you operate a retail store, a hospitality business, or a service-based company, it’s helpful to know what shoppers are buying and what gift recipients are wishing for as you plan your inventory and holiday promotions. This year, gift-givers are looking for items that are functional, meaningful, or provide a memorable experience.

Here are some of the most in-demand gifts for the 2025 season—spanning a wide range of price points—to help you curate options that appeal to all types of shoppers.

Technology and Gadgets

  • Smartwatch bands
  • Bluetooth device trackers
  • Wireless charging stations
  • Fitness trackers
  • Drones
  • Smartwatches
  • 3D printers
  • Virtual reality headsets

Pampering Gifts

  • Scented candles, especially those that enhance décor
  • Cuddle blankets
  • Quilted sweatshirts
  • Smart mugs
  • Fragrance mist bundles
  • Trade coffee subscriptions
  • Back and neck massagers
  • Towel warmers

Toys for Little Kids

  • Squishmallows
  • LEGO Botanicals
  • Melissa & Doug Simmer & Stir Play Set
  • Play-Doh Barbie Fashion Show Sets
  • 3D printing pens
  • Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Activity Table
  • Robotic pets
  • Interactive furReal stuffed animals

Toys for Big Kids and Adults

  • Magnetic dartboards
  • Glow-in-the-dark basketballs
  • Tetris™ Micro Player Console
  • Vinyl record players
  • Wireless gaming keyboards
  • AirPods
  • Portable Bluetooth speakers
  • Nintendo Switch 2

Culinary Gifts

  • Zester/grater
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Spice grinder
  • Pasta machine
  • Mini food processor
  • Sous vide cooker
  • Blue carbon steel wok
  • Outdoor pizza oven

Gifts for Senior Citizens

  • Large-print puzzle books
  • Streaming service subscriptions
  • Memory foam slippers
  • Pampering gift baskets with lotions, lip balm, and bath salts
  • Gourmet snack boxes
  • Heated throw blankets
  • Touch lamps
  • Robot vacuums

Gifts for Travelers

  • Airplane phone holder
  • Airplane foot hammock
  • International travel plug adapter
  • Travel organizer for electronics
  • Portable espresso maker
  • Silk pajamas
  • Smart swim goggles
  • Leather deluxe travel bag

Unique Experiences and Luxury Gifts

  • Behind-the-scenes tours
  • Private tasting parties
  • Hot air balloon rides
  • Deluxe spa packages for couples
  • Exclusive beach dinners
  • Private cooking demonstrations by chefs
  • Therabody Smart Goggles
  • “Live Like a Legend” luxury travel package

As you prepare for the holiday season, offer gifts across a wide range of price points. Most shoppers will be looking for value, while others will be seeking one-of-a-kind experiences and luxury items for their loved ones. Make sure your staff is knowledgeable and ready to help customers make confident, informed purchasing decisions this season.

Attract Holiday Shoppers Online and In-Store

If you want a successful holiday season, your first task is to attract shoppers to your business. You can do this by creating enticing marketing promotions, decorating your store or website to capture attention, and offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere once customers arrive. Here are some creative ideas to help you draw in potential shoppers this season.

Brick-and-Mortar Retail Stores

  • Design eye-catching window displays. Use creative holiday décor—especially pieces that include movement—to attract attention. Feature new or seasonal merchandise and rotate displays every week or two to keep things fresh.
  • Showcase your bestsellers. Include a “Christmas Wish List” in your window with products ranging from your most affordable to your premium items to show that you have gifts for every budget.
  • Add digital displays. Use a small screen or slideshow to highlight featured products and inform potential customers of your inventory even when your store is closed.
  • Create a festive atmosphere. Holiday music and simple refreshments—such as hot cider, coffee, or cookies—encourage shoppers to linger.
  • Offer samples. If you sell food products, let customers taste-test items before buying.
  • Provide seating. A comfortable spot for companions of shoppers can extend how long customers browse.
  • Host exclusive experiences. Reward loyal customers with special early-access shopping events or trunk shows.
  • Plan special appearances. Invite Santa or a local musician to entertain shoppers and bring in more foot traffic.
  • Provide gift-wrapping services. Partner with a local school or club to offer gift wrapping as a fundraiser.
  • Give back. Donate a portion of profits to a local charity and promote this partnership in your advertising and in-store signage.
  • Highlight local products. Share the stories of your local suppliers with framed displays or flyers near their merchandise.

Restaurants

  • Offer limited-time holiday menus with festive entrées, desserts, and beverages.
  • Collaborate with nearby businesses. Partner with local retailers to host early shopping breakfasts or special dining-and-shopping packages.
  • Support local artisans. Allow artists or craftspeople to display and sell their items in your waiting area.
  • Create relaxation packages. Partner with a nearby spa for a “break from the holiday hustle” special, or offer a couples’ package that includes a massage or carriage ride.
  • Offer holiday catering or “take-and-heat” meals for customers who want festive food without the work.
  • Host themed events. Plan fun nights like “Ugly Sweater Night” or “Grinch Night,” and reward participants with a free appetizer or dessert.
  • Give back to the community. Support toy drives or local charities and reward customers who participate with discounts or free items.
  • Feature live entertainment. Invite local musicians or choir groups to perform during the season.

Online Shopping Sites

  • Run strategic promotions. Announce limited-time offers on your social media platforms and create urgency with countdowns or flash sales.
  • Engage your customers. Use email campaigns to promote new products and upcoming specials.
  • Add festive website elements. Incorporate holiday-themed banners, animations, or gentle falling snow to create a seasonal feel that keeps shoppers on your site longer.
  • Simplify purchasing. Offer free shipping, easy returns, and multiple payment options—including digital wallets—to reduce purchase hesitation.
  • Bundle gifts. Create curated gift sets and lists organized by price point, recipient, or interest.
  • Encourage return visits. Send special discounts to first-time buyers or reminders to customers who left items in their cart.

Final Thoughts

These strategies can help attract shoppers to your store, restaurant, or website—and keep them engaged once they arrive. Be creative, offer variety, and maintain a welcoming atmosphere. When your business feels festive and customer-focused, you’ll not only increase holiday sales but also build long-term loyalty that lasts well beyond the season.

Tips to Boost Your Holiday Sales This Year

We are in the fourth quarter of the year, and it’s time to prepare for the holiday shopping season. Traditionally, Black Friday marks the start of holiday shopping.

If you’re a retailer or in the hospitality industry, it’s important to understand how shopping habits may differ this year. Here are some key predictions:

  • Shoppers will prioritize value, watching closely for discounts and sales.
  • Functional gifts will take precedence over novelty or luxury items.
  • Gift cards will remain a popular choice.
  • Many consumers will “trade down” by choosing store brands, smaller quantities, and discount retailers.
  • Buy Now, Pay Later options will see increased use as shoppers spread purchases over a longer timeframe. In fact, July retail sales rose 5.8% as some began holiday shopping early.
  • Higher-income shoppers will focus on experiential gifts such as travel, dining, and leisure activities.
  • About one-third of shoppers will make a deliberate effort to shop local, seeking handmade or locally sourced items.

How to Prepare for Holiday Shopping

To make the most of this season, small business owners should start planning now. Here are practical steps to get ready:

  • Stock early. Have your shelves ready by mid-October with items that make good gifts but aren’t holiday-themed yet. Electronics, jewelry, toys, and personal care items are excellent early options.
  • Order ahead. Place orders for high-demand, nonperishable holiday items that can be stored until late fall.
  • Plan your layout. Feature promoted products in high-traffic areas.
  • Offer variety. Provide similar products in different sizes and price points to appeal to every budget.
  • Reward loyal customers. Use loyalty programs to offer exclusive deals and consider hosting early shopping events for members.
  • Leverage AI and data. Analyze shopping habits to personalize promotions and product recommendations.
  • Prepare your marketing. Develop holiday campaigns now that celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and other seasonal events.
  • Schedule your big events. Decide which items to highlight for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, and create marketing materials for each.
  • Train early. Begin hiring and training now so your team is ready for the holiday rush with great customer service and clear knowledge of store policies.
  • Optimize your website. Make sure your online store is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
  • Showcase range. Advertise gifts at various price points to emphasize affordability and choice.
  • Take care of yourself. Rest and recharge before the busy season begins—you’ll need your energy and enthusiasm!

The countdown to Christmas and other fall holidays has begun. Preparing now will help your season run more smoothly, delight your customers, and boost your year-end sales.

Finishing Strong: Essential Tips for Small Business Owners During the Holiday Rush

The holidays can be a stressful time for nearly everyone, but for small business owners—especially those running retail stores—the pressure is even greater. With extended hours, a surge in holiday sales, and a packed schedule, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not! There are ways to navigate the season smoothly, reduce holiday stress, and ensure your business finishes the year strong.

In this post, we’ll explore practical tips for small business owners to manage the holiday rush, empower employees, practice self-care, and deliver top-notch customer service.

1. Manage Your Schedule to Avoid Holiday Burnout

During the busy holiday season, long hours and high expectations can quickly lead to burnout. As a small business owner, balancing personal and professional responsibilities is crucial for finishing the year strong.

  • Set Time Off: Schedule at least one day off each week (or two shifts) to rest, shop, and prepare for your own holiday celebrations. By prioritizing personal time, you’ll avoid burnout and recharge for the busy days ahead.
  • Set Boundaries: Make it clear to employees what constitutes an emergency that would require their contacting you. Your time off should be uninterrupted unless there’s a major issue affecting the store or customer service.
  • Prioritize Events: Be intentional about which holiday events you choose to attend. Select the ones that matter most and help you stay balanced during this hectic season.

Tip: Utilize an online calendar or scheduling tool to help manage both your work and personal commitments, ensuring you have time for everything—without sacrificing your well-being.

2. Empower Your Employees for Seamless Operations

One of the best ways to reduce holiday stress as a business owner is to empower your employees. By delegating and training your staff effectively, you’ll ensure that both you and your team can handle the holiday rush efficiently.

  • Cross-Train Employees: Equip your employees with the skills to handle routine tasks like answering customer inquiries, processing returns, and offering holiday discounts. This will allow you to step back without worrying about day-to-day operations.
  • Designate a Lead Employee: Appoint a trusted team member to handle non-routine issues. This will give you peace of mind, knowing someone is managing the more complex customer or operational concerns.
  • Delegate Non-Essential Tasks: Assign experienced staff to handle store decorations, window displays, opening and closing procedures, and making bank deposits. By distributing these responsibilities, you empower your team and reduce your workload.
  • Hire Holiday Help: Consider hiring extra seasonal workers to support your team during peak shopping hours. Having backup plans in place for sick days or sudden staff shortages ensures you can provide excellent customer service throughout the holiday season.

3. Practice Self-Care to Manage Holiday Stress

As a small business owner, your well-being is paramount. Managing holiday stress starts with taking care of yourself—physically, mentally, and emotionally. When you take care of yourself, you’ll be better able to take care of your business, your team, and your customers.

  • Take Breaks: Even a short walk or five minutes of deep breathing can help reset your mind and relieve stress. Make it a habit to take breaks throughout the day to maintain focus and avoid burnout.
  • Eat Nutritious Meals & Stay Hydrated: Proper nutrition and hydration are key to keeping your energy levels up during the busy holiday season. Avoid relying on junk food and ensure you’re fueling your body for peak performance.
  • Practice Gratitude: Keep a journal to note things you’re thankful for, and remember to express gratitude to your employees for their hard work. Gratitude can improve mental clarity and reduce stress.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate every achievement, no matter how small. Recognizing your successes will help you stay motivated and positive as you navigate the busy holiday season.

4. Care for Your Employees to Foster Team Spirit

Your employees are the backbone of your business. During the holidays, they’re working hard to ensure everything runs smoothly, so it’s essential to show appreciation and support.

  • Encourage Regular Breaks: Promote employee well-being by requiring regular breaks. A comfortable break area with snacks and beverages can go a long way in helping your team recharge during busy shifts.
  • Flexible Hours: Honor employees’ time-off requests where possible and offer flexible scheduling. Flexibility helps your employees balance work with their own holiday celebrations, reducing stress and increasing job satisfaction.
  • Praise and Recognition: Publicly acknowledge hard work and exceptional customer service. Offering small rewards or praise boosts morale and motivates employees to keep performing at their best.
  • Holiday Celebrations: Organize a festive lunch or party to allow your team to relax and bond. This will help foster a positive, supportive work environment during the hectic holiday season.
  • Provide Holiday Bonuses: If your budget allows, even a small holiday bonus can go a long way in showing employees how much they’re valued.

5. Take Care of Your Customers for a Stress-Free Shopping Experience

Increased foot traffic and a heightened sense of urgency during the holiday season can make shopping stressful for customers. Ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience for your shoppers is critical for maintaining customer loyalty and driving holiday sales.

  • Train Your Staff: Equip your team to handle customer inquiries, returns, and exchanges with confidence. Empowering employees to resolve common issues without escalating them to management ensures a smoother experience.
  • Create Relaxation Zones: If space allows, set up a designated area where customers can take a moment to relax and regroup. This simple gesture can significantly reduce holiday stress for your shoppers.
  • Share Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday: Use in-store displays, newsletters, or social media to share practical tips for managing holiday stress. Offer advice on organizing gifts, managing holiday finances, or even dealing with holiday shopping crowds.
  • Complimentary Gift Wrapping: Offering free gift wrapping is a thoughtful service that reduces stress for your customers and keeps them coming back.
  • Play Soothing Music: Gentle, festive music can set a calming atmosphere and put customers at ease.

6. Finish the Year Strong by Reflecting on the True Meaning of Christmas

While holiday sales are important for a successful year-end, it’s also crucial to reflect on the deeper meaning of Christmas. As a small business owner, taking time to pause and reflect on your blessings will help you maintain perspective during the busy season.

“I bring you good tidings of great joy, which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
– Luke 2:10-11

By staying grounded and focused on the true reason for the season, you’ll finish the year not only with strong holiday sales but also with a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Attracting Last-Minute Holiday Shoppers: Tips for Boosting Sales Before Christmas

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday are behind us for 2024, and by all accounts, it’s been a banner year for sales. But don’t let the post-Black Friday lull fool you—there’s still plenty of shopping to be done!

In fact, it’s estimated that 79% of Christmas spending happens in the two weeks leading up to the holiday, with as much as 35% of the total spending occurring during the final week before Christmas. So now is the time to make sure you’re doing everything you can to attract those last-minute shoppers to your store or website.

Here are a few ideas to help you drive traffic and boost sales in the final stretch of the holiday season:

1. Create Eye-Catching Displays (Online & In-Store)

A standout window display or striking website image can work wonders in grabbing attention. For example, a local dress store caught a lot of eyes by placing a dress on a skeleton with the humorous sign: “Does this dress make me look fat?” Other businesses get creative with holiday-themed windows or festive website banners. Some of our local stores are even famous for their annual holiday window displays, which customers eagerly anticipate all year long. If you can make people smile or spark their curiosity, you’ve already piqued their interest!

2. Promote Products at a Range of Price Points

Make sure your customers know you have gifts for every budget. Create a “Gift Suggestions” list to display both in-store and online. Start with lower-priced items and work your way up to higher-end options. This shows customers that you cater to a wide range of shoppers—whether they’re looking for an affordable stocking stuffer or a luxurious splurge. A thoughtfully curated gift guide can be a great conversation starter and help you drive more sales across different price ranges.

3. Offer Flash Sales to Drive Urgency

Flash sales are a great way to create a sense of urgency. Consider running short-term sales that are exclusive to a few hours of the day, or one-day promotions that offer deep discounts. These kinds of limited-time deals encourage customers to act fast, fearing they’ll miss out if they wait too long.

4. Make Shopping as Easy as Possible

The holiday season can be hectic for your customers. Help them out by offering flexible shopping options. Local shoppers may appreciate the ability to buy online and pick up in-store. If you’re exclusively online, make sure to highlight fast delivery options that guarantee delivery in time for Christmas. For in-store traffic, ensure you have plenty of sales associates ready to assist, and if you offer online support, make sure your customer service is easily accessible to help with last-minute questions.

5. Instill Urgency with Countdown Timers

There’s nothing like a countdown clock to get shoppers moving. Consider adding a countdown timer to your website or even in your store window to show how many days, hours, or minutes are left until Christmas. The ticking clock will create a sense of urgency and remind customers they need to make their purchases before it’s too late.

6. Leverage Social Media to Promote Deals & Share Holiday Cheer

Social media is an invaluable tool for driving holiday sales. Use it to highlight your best deals, share special promotions, and showcase gift ideas. But don’t forget to mix in posts that spread holiday cheer without any sales pitch. Share heartwarming Christmas moments, winter scenes, or behind-the-scenes glimpses of your holiday preparations. These posts create emotional connections with your audience, making your brand feel more relatable and memorable.

Final Thoughts

The holidays can be a stressful time for shoppers, and the easier you can make their experience, the more likely they are to spend money with you and return to your business in the future. So take a deep breath, get creative, and make sure your business stands out in these final days before Christmas!

Wishing you a successful and joyful holiday season.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” — Luke 2:14

Make Holidays Memorable Without Breaking Your Budget

Have you noticed that celebrating the holidays is expensive? Presents consume a significant portion of most families’ budgets. We go all out on fancy food for the Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. Then there are decorations, Christmas cards, postage, and holiday attire. It is easy to get caught up in the spending frenzy. Over half of all Americans (52%) began 2023 with debts from their Christmas spending last year. As recently as the end of September, one-third reported they were still paying off their credit card balances.

Hopefully, you have planned for your spending for 2023. If you have been reading my blog all year, you may have established a spending budget early in the year and are in good financial shape for this Christmas. If not, starting a budget now for next year is never too early. I hope you have a blessed Christmas and can celebrate the birth of our Savior without creating financial stress for yourself in the coming year.

With that in mind, my purpose today is to suggest that there are many activities that you can do with your spouse, children, grandchildren, and friends that will create beautiful memories without breaking your budget. Here’s a list of the ones I have thought of to get you started.

1. Bake cookies with your friends and family or for your friends and family. You can make several batches of cookies while drinking cocoa and catching up.

2. Host a cookie exchange party. The women’s ministries group at my church does this each year. Every woman brings three dozen cookies of one kind and goes home with a mixture of three dozen cookies made by the other women. It’s fun to get new recipes and taste everyone’s favorites.

3. Decorate Christmas cookies. If you do not enjoy baking sugar cookies, you can purchase them at the supermarket and decorate them with the younger family members. My grandchildren love to frost cookies and sprinkle them with sugar crystals. It’s a bit of a mess, and it creates wonderful memories.

4. Decorate your tree and home. I have always enjoyed decorating the Christmas tree; however, it is much more fun now that I have grandchildren. They also like to help Gramma decorate the house. Their ideas will differ from mine, and sometimes they are much better.

5. Drive around and look at the holiday lights. It helps to plan and know what neighborhoods have many decorated houses. Community Facebook pages are a good source of information on where to find the best lights.

6. Attend nativity programs at your church and others in your town. You will likely be surprised by the variety of methods of telling the Christmas story. Some churches put on outdoor living nativities, while other productions are more traditional.

7. Go to the Christmas parade. Children especially love Christmas parades, and in our community, we have several hosted by different localities within a thirty-minute drive of our house.

8. Go Christmas caroling. This has long been one of my favorite activities. For many years, our girls’ program at church has visited a local assisted living center and sang for the residents. The residents love it and join in the fun. One year, a 94-year-old resident accompanied us on the piano. We hand out some gifts that help the children interact with the older people. I always leave feeling happy and blessed.

9. Donate some canned goods to your local food pantry. Food pantries rely on donations year-round. The needs are even greater during the holidays, as many families seek extra help to enjoy their holiday feasts. Check with your local pantry to find out their biggest needs, and pick up a few items while shopping. You don’t have to spend a lot—look for items on sale. This is one instance in which many small donations can add up to a large amount of food to be distributed to others in your community.

10. Make simple homemade gifts. If your budget will not allow you to purchase gifts for everyone on your list, roll up your sleeves and make some inexpensive gifts. Pinterest is full of ideas and patterns, which you can download for free. The recipients will likely appreciate your homemade gift more than a store-bought one and will cherish it much longer.

11. Make homemade decorations. Rather than spending a lot of money on new decorations, reuse your old ones and make some new ones to give your tree and home a fresh look. Again, Pinterest is my go-to resource for creating inexpensive and fun decorations. You will have more fun and memories if you recruit friends or family to help make decorations.

12. Watch holiday movies. Pop a large bowl of popcorn or make your favorite holiday treat and settle in with loved ones to watch your favorite holiday movies. We have many beloved Christmas movies that we watch each year with our grandkids or extended family. My mother’s favorite was Those Calloways. I have many fond memories of the family watching it on Christmas night after we unwrapped all the presents, ate the Christmas meal, and cleaned up. We often ate turkey sandwiches while we watched.

13. Hang the stockings. Hand-knit Christmas stockings are a tradition handed down to me by my grandmother. My grandchildren love to help hang the stockings on the railing of our staircase. They love to come up with different arrangements each year. A few years ago, one of them decided we should hang fairy lights between the stockings. It was a beautiful way to highlight the stockings. They also take turns helping Gramma to stuff the stockings. The two eight-year-olds will have their turns this year and are already excited about it.

14. Read the nativity story to the younger members of the family. Plan a quiet time, perhaps after decorating the tree, to read Christ’s birth story. Have cocoa and Christmas cookies while reading or after reading.

15. Attend the church Christmas dinner. Our church family gathers together in early December for the annual Christmas dinner. It is always a great time of fellowship; everyone brings a dish or two to share. This is another excellent way to create memories and share family favorite recipes with your friends.

I am sure you have other activities for your family’s Christmas celebration. Please comment and share your ideas.

Reduce Stress By Planning Your Holiday Spending

Researchers estimate that 80% of consumers have started shopping for the holiday season. I shop for eight grandchildren, and I like to spread my spending over several months, so I am part of the 80%. Many people are shopping early to take advantage of promotions. Others are spreading out their spending to avoid hefty credit card balances in the coming year.

Economic forecasters predict that 95% of Americans will celebrate the holidays. The average consumer will spend $1,652 on gifts, food, decorations, clothing, and furnishings. This number is 14% more than last year, even though incomes increased by only about 5%.  

As parents and grandparents, we desire to make the holidays special for our children. We encourage them to make lists, and we try our best to fill their lists. But sometimes our budgets do not allow us to indulge our children as we would like. It’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy and spend more than we can afford. 

Before you overspend on Christmas purchases, take a hard look at your income and regular bills. Plan a time to sit down and calculate how much you can afford. Find a quiet space and clear your mind from the running to-do list constantly filling your head. Commit to not spending more than you can afford. The following ideas can help you to stay within your budget.

Prioritize. If you are a parent, buying gifts for your children should be first on your holiday shopping list. Beyond the children, you will want to purchase gifts for your spouse, parents, and spouse’s parents. Extended family, co-workers, and friends should be further down the list and may require you to cut if your budget does not allow them. 

Set Expectations. If you plan to spend less than usual this year, let your children know they may not find as many gifts under the tree. Be upfront with friends and colleagues with whom you will not be able to exchange gifts this year; they will appreciate your honesty and may be relieved to be purchasing fewer gifts themselves.

Ask for help. If your child has his heart set on a gift that does not fit your budget, ask the grandparents to chip in. They will likely be happy to contribute for the pleasure of knowing their grandchild is getting this special gift.

Start early. Research now for the best prices for the gifts you want to buy. Be alert for sales and promotions. Place online orders early enough not to have to pay for express shipping.

Cut back. Carefully consider all of your spending for your typical holiday celebration. Decide which purchases you can cut out without diminishing your celebration. Reuse gift bags and decorations rather than buying new ones. Design and send e-cards rather than spending money and postage on store-bought cards. Give some homemade gifts. Make most of your desserts and side dishes from scratch.

The spirit of Christmas is giving. As God gave His Son to redeem mankind, we give gifts to those we love. Remember that the amount of money you spend does not reflect your love for someone. Instead, it is the thoughtfulness of the gifts that demonstrates your love to your family members. It is more loving and thoughtful to stay within your budget on holiday spending than to go overboard and deal with financial stress in the new year.

For more information on reducing your financial stress, please read my other blogs on financial management and stewardship. My book Honoring God with Your Money is another excellent resource. You may also want to sign up for my free quarterly newsletter.