By Sarah, Client Growth Advisor, and Abigail, Market Research & Intelligence
¡Hola! I'm Sarah, the Client Growth Advisor here at Creative Bytes. I help businesses turn interest into real conversations with real customers. And I'm Abigail, Market Research & Intelligence. I keep an eye on how customers are actually shopping, so we can help you meet them where they are. We teamed up today because this one's too important to split up.
Okay, real talk. The holidays sneak up on everybody. One minute it's pumpkin spice, the next your customers are making their gift lists and booking their plans. The question is: when they start looking, will they find you?
The quick answer: A holiday marketing plan doesn't have to be complicated. Make sure customers can find you (including through AI tools), give them fresh reasons to trust you, and show up with a clear, friendly offer of what you do best. Start small, keep it simple, and stay consistent.
Here's what the numbers say
- The share of people using AI tools to find local businesses jumped from 6% to 45% in a single year. (BrightLocal, 2026)
- 74% of shoppers focus on reviews from the last 3 months. (BrightLocal, 2026)
- 95% of hidden B2B buyers are more open to outreach from strong thought leaders. (Edelman–LinkedIn, 2025)
Translation? Holiday shoppers are searching in new places, and they trust what's recent and real.
Smart moves growing businesses are making right now
- Getting found in AI search. Customers are asking their phones for recommendations. Make sure your website, Google Business Profile and listings clearly say what you do, where you do it and who you serve.
- Keeping reviews fresh. Recent reviews carry the most weight. Ask your happy customers this season, while the experience is still top of mind.
- Showing up on video. YouTube, Instagram and TikTok are growing as places people check out businesses (BrightLocal, 2026). A quick behind-the-scenes clip goes a long way.
- Sharing what they know. Businesses that publish helpful, consistent content earn trust before the sale. Your expertise is your best holiday ad.
What should your holiday plan include?
- One clear holiday offer or message (keep it simple, ¡sencillo!)
- Updated hours, photos and info everywhere you're listed
- A short content calendar so you're posting consistently, not scrambling
- A thank-you touch for loyal customers. Gratitude goes a long way, and it feels good too. Gracias a Dios for every customer who walks through your door.
Try this today (it takes 5 minutes): Text or email three happy customers and ask for a quick review. Fresh reviews are a gift that keeps on giving. ¡Felices fiestas! (Happy holidays!)
Quick questions we hear a lot
Is it too late to start holiday marketing? Not at all. Even a few simple, consistent steps now can make a real difference this season.
Do I need to be on every social platform? Nope. Pick the one or two where your customers already hang out and show up there well.
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Want a hand making this your best season yet? We'd love to help. Take our 3-minute quiz to find your best fit, or check out our marketing services. You can also book a complimentary consultation. We've got you.