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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but it’s not too late to put together some last minute marketing plans. This romantic holiday isn’t just an opportunity for restaurants, jewellers and florists – any business can take advantage of it with these simple ideas.

1. Decorate your space

If you own a retail store, decorate with DIY Valentine’s Day decorations to spread love through the air. This will make your customers feel festive and ready to find the perfect gift for their Valentine.

2. Hand out Valentine’s Day cards and chocolate

Valentine’s Day cards are a tangible reminder of your business and its appreciation for its customers. But don’t forget about your employees. Take a few minutes to write personalized cards about why you value each of your team members. You can make your own cards using a template on Canva or customize them to match your branding. 

You can also give your customers chocolates to say thanks. They’ll love the little treat and may even Instagram it to give you extra free marketing.

3. Send a thoughtful email

Not every email you send to your customers will sell something. Send your customers an email thanking them for their loyalty to your business. This is a thoughtful and effective way to reach the customers who you didn’t have a chance to see around Valentine’s Day.

4. Offer promotions on social media

Offer flash deals through your different social media platforms. Tell your followers before the discount starts so they check back frequently. This will help boost your sales and increase your social media exposure. You can also host small Valentine’s Day social media contests and giveaways with your products, a trial to your services or even a box of chocolates to interact with current and future customers.

We’re currently running a Valentine’s Day contest on Facebook for small business owners.* All you need to do sign up with the form and you’ll be entered to win some great prizes, including a Valentine’s Day dinner for 2 worth $200!

5. Try online advertising

Online advertising is a proven way to increase brand awareness. Stats show pay per click ads increase brand awareness by 63 per cent. At 411.ca, we offer you a way to list your business for free to help you stand out among competitors. This is incredibly important around holidays like Valentine’s Day, where consumers look to spend more on goods and services for their loved ones.

6. Give back to your community

While most people are focused on giving gifts to their Valentine, take this opportunity to give back to your community. Donate a portion of proceeds from one of your products/services and give it to a local charity. Then, write about the importance of giving back on your website, blog, newsletter, and social media to show your customers you are a valuable part of the community.

Show your customers, employees and community you care this Valentine’s Day and they’ll be happy to support you year round.

*This contest is open to business owners in the GTA and Montreal only.

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