Pumpkin spice up your marketing this Fall and Holiday season! From social media posts to email blasts, this month I’m sharing your must-do prep list.

As the summer’s end nears, savvy local organizations, small businesses and arts groups know one thing: the Holiday marketing season is just around the corner. While many are still soaking up the last rays of sunshine, the most successful marketers understand that August is the perfect time to get a jumpstart on fourth quarter campaigns. Why? Because preparation today means a smoother, more impactful season tomorrow and in the fast-paced world of digital marketing, early birds truly do catch the best results.

Whether you're gearing up for special promotions, planning community events or simply want to boost your brand visibility as the seasons start to change, marketing prep is essential and August is your secret weapon. Below I’ll share a practical checklist to get you started and ensure you’re in the spotlight when it matters most.

Your Fall/Holiday Marketing Prep Checklist
Here’s a handy-dandy checklist to help you get organized and focused this month. Whether you’re a one-person shop or part of a team, ticking these off will put you in the driver’s seat. Vroom, vroom… Let’s go!

Social Content Calendars
Map out your social media strategy for the coming months. This includes:

• Scheduling posts around key dates (e.g., Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Holiday)

• Finalizing promotions or community events

• Planning content that reflects the changing season - think cozy, warm and inviting themes

• Using a social media management tool like META (hello, LOVE!) Hootsuite, Buffer or Later to schedule posts in advance

• Incorporating user-generated content and local partnerships for authentic engagement

Event Signage & Print Package
If you’re hosting or participating in Fall/Holiday events:

• Design and order banners, flyers, posters and postcards well in advance

• Ensure your branding is consistent across all materials

• Include clear calls to action (RSVP, ticket sales, volunteer signups)

• Plan for in-person and digital distribution

Email Marketing Plans
Email remains one of the highest ROI channels, especially for local and community-focused organizations.

• Develop a monthly or bi-weekly newsletter schedule

• Segment your lists for more personalized messaging (e.g., donors vs. attendees, customers vs. prospects)

• Prepare automated drip campaigns for event reminders or promotional offers

• Draft engaging, mobile-friendly templates that align with your brand voice

Website Tune-Ups
Your website is the hub of your digital presence and deserves attention before the rush.

• Check all links, forms and booking systems for functionality

• Update content to reflect seasonal offerings and events

• Optimize your site for mobile devices and speed

• Conduct an SEO audit to ensure your pages are targeting relevant keywords

• Add or update your Google Business Profile with fresh photos, posts, and accurate info

Bonus Tips for a Successful Fall/Holiday Campaign

• Leverage Local SEO: Make sure your Google My Business is updated and encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews

• Use Video Content: Short videos about upcoming events or promotions generate engagement and shares

• Plan Paid Advertising Early: Reserve your Facebook, Instagram or Google Ads budget now to avoid last-minute price hikes

• Track & Analyze: Set clear key performance indicators (KPIs) and use analytics tools to monitor campaign success and be ready to pivot

Let’s Talk Strategy…
At Pioneer Agency, we specialize in helping local businesses, arts organizations and community groups make the most of every marketing season. If you’re ready to get ahead and build a tailored, actionable marketing plan CONTACT US TODAY. I’m here to help…