​The holiday season is a make-or-break time for many small businesses. Shoppers are ready to spend, but they’re also pulled in countless directions—online sales, big-box discounts, and time constraints that make convenience one of the biggest factors in their spending.

The best way to rise above the noise isn’t to shout louder, it’s to link arms with your neighbors; maybe even your competitors (hear us out). Collaboration is one of the most powerful tools a small business can use this time of year, and it often leads to results that no single business could achieve alone.

When local businesses team up, customers notice. They see a community that’s connected, welcoming, and invested in making their holiday shopping meaningful. It’s the difference between a single store saying, “We’re open,” and a whole town saying, “Come celebrate with us.”

The Power of Partnership

Partnerships can take many shapes, and they don’t have to be complicated. A café might partner with a nearby boutique for a “Shop & Sip” event, offering a free latte when someone shows a same-day shopping receipt. A florist could collaborate with a gift shop to create festive bundle deals—flowers and candles wrapped up as a one-stop hostess gift. Even service-based businesses can benefit: a fitness studio might swap social media shoutouts with a local juice bar, or a salon could share a giveaway with a neighboring spa.

Each collaboration introduces you to new customers and strengthens relationships within the business community. And that sense of togetherness is magnetic. Shoppers want to feel that their dollars are doing more than buying gifts. They want to invest in their community, and they want their purchases to have purpose.

Real-World Inspiration

Across the country, businesses are finding creative ways to make collaboration part of their holiday magic. In downtown McKinney, Texas, the local wineries recently hosted a fall wine walk (with another one coming up for the holidays). They sold passports with maps that they would get stamped as they enjoyed their tastings (the number of tastings depended on the ticket tier). Instead of hosting the tastings at the wineries themselves, the wineries positioned staff at other businesses throughout the town. This event brough in 800 people to enjoy the downtown area on a beautiful fall day. The layout of the event encouraged strolling so all businesses benefitted. Many participants remarked how they were able to explore businesses they weren’t even aware of. The result? Every participating business (not just the wineries) enjoyed greater foot traffic and exposure, while guests discover new favorites along the way, which will (hopefully) bring them back later in the holiday season.

Similarly, other communities organize “Holiday Shopping Passports” that encourage residents to visit a list of participating businesses. Each purchase earns a stamp, and full passports are entered into a prize drawing. It’s simple, fun, and incredibly effective at keeping shoppers local throughout the season. You could do the same thing with a Dining Passport.

Pop-up markets with a mix of artisans, retailers, food vendors, and performers all in one festive location are another crowd favorite. Picture lights twinkling, music playing, and the smell of cocoa in the air. A pop-up gives customers a memorable experience while helping smaller businesses share overhead costs and gain new audiences.

Collaboration Beyond Retail

Even if your business doesn’t fit the traditional holiday shopping mold, you can still take part in the spirit of cooperation. Professional service providers, realtors, insurance agents, and accountants can cross-promote by sharing each other’s seasonal tips, highlighting community causes, or co-hosting an appreciation event for clients.

For example, one real estate agent partnered with a local bakery and ordered 100 pumpkin pies for clients. They gave her a discount, and she talked them up on social media saying she was sharing part of her family’s tradition (ordering from the bakery) with her clients. It benefits everyone.

Another collaboration idea is a law firm and financial planner sponsoring a “New Year, New Goals” workshop together, positioning themselves as trusted local experts. Or a real estate agent could team up with a home décor boutique for a “Holiday Home” open house featuring local gifts and refreshments. These partnerships add value for customers while creating genuine connections among businesses.

Make It Easy for Customers to Choose Local

The more businesses join forces, the easier it becomes for shoppers to stay in town. Bundled promotions, shared marketing materials, and coordinated events simplify the decision to buy local. Instead of asking residents to visit each store individually, you’re inviting them into a full experience—one that’s joyful, convenient, and full of community spirit.

And when shoppers have a good time, they talk about it. Word-of-mouth spreads faster than any paid ad. That sense of shared excitement builds momentum that benefits everyone, especially those who took the time to collaborate.

We Can Help

If you’re not sure where to start, our chamber is the perfect place. We can help connect you with other businesses that complement yours. We can also promote your partnerships through our newsletter, social media, and event listings, giving your efforts the visibility they deserve.

Before the season slips by, reach out. Ask how you can get involved or suggest an idea for a joint promotion. Whether it’s a shared giveaway, a neighborhood shopping night, or a creative collaboration, we’re here to help you make it happen.

Because when local businesses work together, the entire community wins. You don’t just increase sales—you strengthen the local economy, deepen relationships, and create the kind of holiday spirit that keeps customers coming back long after the decorations are packed away.

This season, don’t go it alone. Team up, spread the cheer, and watch how working together truly wins the season.

Traditionally, marketers at this time of year are busy trying to attract Black Friday and other shoppers in the days right after Thanksgiving. But thanks to the uptick in pre-Black Friday sales, today’s customers are shopping earlier than ever, spreading out their spending and looking for ways to avoid the December scramble. In fact, nearly half of U.S. shoppers now begin their holiday shopping before Black Friday.

That means November isn’t just the warm-up. It’s your time to shine. With a few smart strategies, you can pull in customers before the big-box stores roll out their doorbusters and get a head start on holiday profits. Here are a few ways to catch shoppers’ attention:

1. Create a “Pre-Holiday Perk” Campaign

Position early shopping as something special. Give early birds their own exclusive event—like “Thankful for You” week or a “Pre-Holiday VIP Preview.”

Offer perks such as:

• An early access sale with limited quantities
• Complimentary gift wrapping for purchases before Thanksgiving
• Bonus loyalty points or small freebies with purchase

Use phrases like “Avoid the rush—shop early and save more” or “Holiday magic starts now” to build urgency and show shoppers what’s in it for them.

2. Partner With Neighboring Businesses
​
Join forces with nearby retailers, restaurants, and service providers to create a walkable or online “Shop Early, Shop Local” trail.

Each participating business could offer something small (like a $5 coupon or treat) for visitors. when customers visit.
This drives traffic as it reinforces community spirit and keeps dollars circulating locally.

3. Launch a “Grateful Giving” Promotion

People love to feel generous in November. Tap into that with a cause-driven sale. Donate a percentage of early purchases to a local charity, food pantry, or school project or participate in a toy drive and give a special discount to those who donate to it.

For example:

• A bakery could donate a loaf to a shelter or needy family for every dozen cookies sold.
• A restaurant could give a portion of sales on one night to a nonprofit.

When shoppers know their purchase gives back, they’re more likely to buy early and buy more.

4. Bundle for the Busy Buyer

Many shoppers are looking for quick, ready-to-give solutions. Create themed bundles that save them time and make you stand out.

Think:

• “Cozy Night In” kits (candles, cocoa, and socks)
• “Local Taste Tour” boxes with hometown treats
• “Grill Master” or “Self-Care Sunday” sets

Display them prominently and promote them as limited pre-holiday offers. Bonus: they make for great social media photos.

5. Host an Experience, Not Just a Sale

Before the crowds hit, give people a reason to linger. Host a small in-store event, tasting, or workshop tied to the season:

• A “Holiday Decorating Tips” night at a home store
• A “Sip & Style” event at a boutique
• A “Pie Pairing” session at a café or winery

​Offer special pricing to attendees or a first look at holiday items. Events like these encourage people to shop early and to shop locally again later.

6. Reward the “Early Elves”

Give a little something extra to those who shop before Thanksgiving. A small thank-you, like a coupon for their next visit in December, keeps them coming back.

For instance: “Shop in November and get a $10 gift card to use in December.” It’s an easy, low-cost way to extend your holiday revenue window.

7. Promote Your November Hours and Offers Early

Don’t assume customers know you’re ready for the holidays. Tell them! Use every channel you can: social media, window signs, email, and your Google Business Profile. (Don’t forget to tell us too!)

Include photos of gift displays, new arrivals, or holiday décor to set the mood. And if you have special hours around Thanksgiving week, post them early. One of the biggest mistakes small businesses make during this time of year is not communicating hours (or assuming because you posted once, that was enough). Many people shop online because they simply assume their favorite local store isn’t open when they want to shop. While that may be the case some of the time (no one in retail is staying open until 1:00 am just in case someone feels the need to shop), if you are extending your hours for the holiday season make sure everyone in town knows.

8. Lean Into Gratitude Messaging

November is naturally about giving thanks so it’s a great marketing theme. Share posts thanking your loyal customers, featuring favorite local places or other businesses, or highlighting team members.

People are more likely to support a business that feels human and heartfelt. Gratitude builds trust, and trust leads to sales.

9. Offer Early Access to Gift Cards or Experiences

Gift cards are the unsung hero of early holiday marketing. Promote them as stress-free gifts before Thanksgiving with a small incentive: “Buy a $50 gift card, get $10 for yourself.”

Restaurants, spas, and service businesses can pair cards with small add-ons—like a dessert, a product sample, or a digital thank-you card featuring local art.

​10. Market to the “Planners and Procrastinators”

Create messaging that speaks to both types of shoppers. For planners: emphasize peace of mind and avoiding the rush. For procrastinators: highlight easy solutions and limited availability.

Example captions:

• “The best gifts don’t wait until December.”
• “Plan ahead, shop now, and then relax while everyone else stands in line.”

​November is full of potential for small businesses willing to act early. That’s why we started Small Business Season on November 1st and promote our Keep The Cheer Here campaign weekly. Remember, we’re here to help promote your events, amplify your message, and connect you with other local businesses doing the same. Together, we can make Small Business Season the highlight of the year. 

It’s officially that time of year where you have to keep looking at the calendar because it’s so hard to believe how quickly time is going or as we like to say—it’s Blurvember.
 
The holidays have a way of sneaking up on even the most prepared businesses. One minute you’re stocking fall candles and the next you’re wondering where the extra rolls of gift wrap went.
 
This is the moment to tighten things up so you can enjoy the revenue boost without feeling like you’re sprinting through December.
 
Here are five simple, high-impact updates your business can make right now (some so quick you can implement them between customers) to get ahead of the holiday rush.
 
1. Update Your Hours and Online Info EverywhereHoliday shoppers are comparing hours, checking maps, and trying to squeeze errands between work, school pickups, and holiday events. If your hours aren’t accurate across Google, Yelp, Facebook, and your website, you risk losing customers before they even leave the house.
 
Do a quick search for your business as if you were a customer.

• Is your phone number right?
• Are your photos current?
• Does your holiday schedule show up clearly?

Most people rely on Google’s first page, so correcting those listings now is one of the easiest wins you can score.
 
2. Refresh Your Signage and DisplaysYour storefront or lobby is a strong salesperson this time of year. When signage feels fresh and intentional, customers are more likely to stop, browse, and buy. That’s why so many storefront businesses go straight from Halloween to Christmas. Both holidays are visually appealing. In fact, people will enter your business just because you have a cool window. (Poor Thanksgiving, the middle child of holidays.)
 
You don’t have to overhaul your entire look. A few simple updates can make a strong impression:

• Swap weathered signs for clean, readable replacements (unless antique is your vibe)
• Add one seasonal visual element that feels inviting rather than overwhelming
• Use clear markers for gift ideas or bestsellers
• Make sure curbside or pickup instructions are posted where customers can see them

 
Even small touches create a sense of readiness that customers appreciate during a busy season.

3. Prep Your Team for Upselling Without Feeling SalesyYour staff can be your holiday heroes. A little training now can lead to bigger revenue and happier customers later. Upselling doesn’t have to feel pushy. It’s simply offering helpful suggestions that customers genuinely appreciate.
 
Consider coaching your team on moments where a gentle recommendation is natural. Think gift wrap, add-on accessories, seasonal specials, or limited-time treats. When employees feel confident, customers feel guided. And both walk away happy.

4. Offer Gift Cards, Gift Bundles, or Quick-Grab OptionsThe closer we get to December, the more people search for simple solutions. They’re panicked. They’re behind the eight ball (or snowball, in this case), and they just want the perfect gift that doesn’t look rushed. Gift cards are a lifesaver for anyone in a time crunch, and they’re one of the highest ROI products you can offer. If you don’t have them, this is the year to add them.
 
You can also create:

• Small themed gift bundles
• Stocking stuffer displays
• Grab-and-go treats or purchase add-ons
• Digital gift cards for last-minute shoppers

 
Anything that shortens decision-making for your customers will boost sales when traffic hits its peak.
5. Streamline Curbside or Online Ordering Before Things Get BusyConvenience is key during the holidays. If your online ordering, reservation system, or curbside pickup process feels a little clunky today, it will feel downright stressful on December 15.
 
Now is the perfect time to:

• Run a test order
• Check that links work
• Update product descriptions
• Confirm your inventory tracking is accurate
• Make pickup instructions extremely clear

 
Even a small digital tune-up can make the difference between a smooth holiday season and a frantic one.

Bonus: Create One Holiday Highlight That Sets You ApartA lot of businesses do holiday promotions. Far fewer do something memorable. Consider spotlighting one special element this season to help you stand out. It could be a signature drink, a limited-time dish, a themed shopping night, a charity tie-in, or a mini experience customers can’t get anywhere else.
 
Small moments of delight build loyalty. And the holidays are the perfect time to create them.

Speaking of Spotlights, Your Chamber is Here to HelpYou don’t have to tackle holiday readiness on your own. We’re participating in Small Business Season this year with our own Keep The Cheer Here campaign for our members.  If you would like your own “spotlight,” call us 317-477-4188 or email [email protected] for more information. 
 
This season, tell us what you’re working on, and we’ll help get the word out.

Share your holiday hours, promotions, themed events, or special offerings and we’ll amplify them through our social media, weekly newsletters and Keep The Cheer Here holiday eblasts so more customers know exactly where to shop, dine, and celebrate.

Let’s make this your smoothest and strongest holiday season yet.

As a business in our town, we want to help you this holiday season. But we also need some assistance from you. As part of Small Business Season (November 1- December 31), we’re trying to bring awareness to the importance of shopping local. KEEP THE CHEER HERE!!

Every time someone buys from a business in our town, something bigger happens than a simple transaction. Those dollars circulate through the community, supporting local jobs, funding community improvements, and creating a stronger local economy.

According to studies, for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, roughly $68 stays in the community (as opposed to $43-48 when you buy online). That money helps pay employees, supports local charities and children’s programs, and keeps the lights on for other small businesses.

It’s a powerful reminder that shopping local isn’t just about convenience or sentiment. It’s an investment in our shared success.

As Small Business Season kicks off, it’s a great time to think about how your business fits into that story. Whether you run a retail store, a restaurant, a service company, or a home-based business, you play a part in shaping the local economy both as a provider of products and/or services and as a supporter of our community.

Why It Matters to You, to Us, to Everyone

It’s easy and convenient to order online but it doesn’t do as much for our community. That’s why this Small Business Season, we’re trying to educate our residents on the importance of where they spend their money. We’re asking you to help get the word out.

When people understand the impact of their purchases, they’re more motivated to support local businesses. Suddenly the convenience of hitting a button doesn’t look as appealing as the appreciation they see in your eyes.
How can you help? We have an easy way that you can start today.

Tell Your Story

You want to put a face and personality behind your business and that starts with storytelling. Share:

• Your personal “why.”
• What makes your business unique.
• What you love about being local.
• How you contribute to the community.
• What your family or staff loves.
• A picture of something in your business (or your holiday décor).
• Why you started your business or talk about someone who helped you along the way.
• What keeps you inspired.
• What local causes you support and why.
• A favorite business memory or that point you realized you were meant to do what you’re doing.

These personal details are what turn shoppers into loyal supporters in the same way that getting to know someone better builds the relationship.

The more we work together to elevate small businesses and help our residents (and visitors) understand why every purchase here has a purpose, the stronger our community becomes.

KEEP THE CHEER HERE

Join our Small Business Season celebration! We’re highlighting the incredible local businesses that make our area so special with our own KEEP THE CHEER HERE campaign for our members. If you’d like to be a part of this campaign, please call 317.477.4188 or email Retta ([email protected]) today for more information!!  

This holiday season, let’s make sure every purchase has a purpose. When you choose local, you’re investing in more than a product or service. You’re powering dreams, jobs, and the places that make our community feel like home.
Think about your favorite traditions: the café with the best cocoa, the boutique where you always find that just-right gift, the restaurant where celebrations become traditions. These aren’t just stops on your holiday list. They’re the backdrop of your memories and your holidays wouldn’t be the same without them.
 
That’s the spirit behind Small Business Season: celebrating the people and places that make our community special.
 
From November 1st to December 31st, we’re honoring the heart and soul of our community—our small businesses. These special folks pour passion into every product and every smile, making our town unique and vibrant.

And this year’s theme says it plainly: Every Purchase Has a Purpose. Your local spending fuels jobs, strengthens the economy, and keeps neighbors connected. The impact doesn’t stop at the counter. It ripples across our schools, teams, and community causes.
 
Get ready to explore, engage, and enjoy! Watch for festive happenings and community challenges.

Ready to make this holiday season extra meaningful?  This Small Business Season, we invite you to:

• Discover meaningful gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures at local boutiques, craft fairs, and artisan markets.
• Treat yourself (and your loved ones) by dining at family-owned restaurants, booking a relaxing salon service, or attending a local holiday themed event.
• Amplify local: share your experiences on social media, tag your favorite businesses, and leave positive reviews. Your voice helps small businesses shine.
 
This holiday season, we hope every purchase has a purpose for our community. Together, we can make shopping local something you think of first. Let’s show our appreciation for the neighbors who keep our community strong.
Shop local, dine local, love local.
 
P.S. Are you a local business owner? Let us help share your story! We’re featuring local businesses all season long through our Keep the Cheer Here Campaign spotlights and social posts.  Call (317.477.4188) or email Retta ([email protected])  today for more information.