The Marketing Lessons We Can Learn from Beloved Holiday Classics
The holiday season is officially upon us, and with it comes the chance to sprinkle a little holiday magic into your marketing. Think about the charm of It’s a Wonderful Life or the mischief in Home Alone—those beloved films teach us how to create stories that stand the test of time. Your favorite holiday classics are likely filled with lessons you can weave into your own messaging to make a lasting impact. So, grab your cocoa, stroll down memory lane with us, and uncover the timeless life lessons hidden in the holiday movies that have warmed our hearts year after year.
Customer Service That Feels Like Magic
The holidays are all about making people feel special, and your customer service can do just that. Think of how Kris Kringle in Miracle on 34th Street made every customer feel like the most important person in the world. Or how Buddy in Elf brightened everyone’s day with his over-the-top enthusiasm: "The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear." Taking the time to show your customers they’re valued goes a long way. Whether it’s a heartfelt thank-you note, a holiday discount, or a thoughtful little gift, those extra touches will make your customers feel special. We actually did an entire blog post on how small details can go a long way and the importance of crafting a strong consumer experience. If you haven’t read it, you can check it out here.
Unwrap the Excitement and Build Anticipation
So many great holiday movies have just the right amount of build-up to keep you eagerly watching, and your marketing can do the same. Just like the kids eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival in The Polar Express, building anticipation makes your offers more exciting. Drop hints, run countdowns, or show sneak peeks to get your customers buzzing about what’s coming next. A little mystery can turn a regular promotion into an event everyone’s excited to be a part of.
Make Your Campaign Memorable
The last thing you want for your holiday marketing is for it to be forgotten like Kevin in Home Alone (yes, we went there). Your goal this holiday season is clear: make your brand stand out in the holiday chaos. A creative promotion, a unique Black Friday deal, or an attention-grabbing social media campaign will help capture attention and keep your brand top of mind. With so many distractions this time of year, doing something memorable—like the unforgettable way the Grinch stole Christmas—will ensure your campaign stays top of mind.
Tap into Emotions
One of the things we love about holiday movies is how they pull at our heartstrings. In so many beloved films, we see characters experiencing joy, family bonding, and emotional transformation. Your marketing can tap into those same emotions by sharing customer stories, highlighting your brand’s values, or giving back to your community. When your audience feels emotionally connected, they’re more likely to remember your brand and engage with it long after the holidays.
Build Lasting Relationships, Not Just Transactions
What It’s a Wonderful Life teaches us is that relationships are what truly matter. This holiday season, think about how you can nurture relationships with your customers, just like George Bailey did with his town. Personalize your emails, offer early access to special deals, or host a virtual holiday event to create a deeper connection with your audience. It’s not just about making a sale—it’s about building a relationship that will last beyond the season, just like the bonds we see in the most memorable holiday classics.
Feeling inspired after our stroll through some holiday classics? If you’re feeling the creative spark, we’re glad to hear it! If you’re more on the “I’m even more overwhelmed now” side, it might be time to give us a call or schedule a consultation.
About The Author
Callie Ward is the Digital Marketing Manager for Kwedar & Co. After graduating from Tarleton State University with a degree in Communications and a minor in Technical Writing in 2019, she has dedicated her career to marketing, focusing on digital media and creative design. She has worked with clients across various industries, including retail, real estate, and service providers, gaining a wealth of experience. Callie excels at designing marketing strategies that help business owners and leaders stand out in a crowded marketplace.
To connect with Callie, please send her an email, or book a consultation.