The Big Idea
12 Days of Holiday Marketing Wins
Twelve bite-size ways Charleston businesses can ride holiday trends, AI discovery, and local charm
Charleston Holiday Hero Image
  1. 1
    Reach Charleston Shoppers Everywhere
    Most buyers hit at least five online spots before buying — ambient shopping is in.
    Tip: Seed your ads and gift guides on Google, YouTube, and social feeds for local shoppers, especially those browsing Charleston hashtags and planning King Street visits.
  2. 2
    Surf the Trend Tsunami
    Niche trends explode overnight. Google’s AI tracks searches like “palmetto ornaments” and “oyster wreaths.”
    Tip: Set local search and social alerts to pivot fast. Highlight Charleston staples in your holiday imagery.
  3. 3
    Mix Culture, Creators & Commerce
    Video isn’t optional — especially in Charleston where local creators thrive.
    Tip: Partner with a Holy City influencer for a YouTube holiday guide or festive reel. Make your products #CharlestonFamous.
  4. 4
    Offer Last-Minute Solutions
    Charleston’s busy streets mean shoppers want quick options.
    Tip: Post daily stories with curbside pickup, local delivery, or “order by” dates to capture procrastinators.
  5. 5
    Bundle Holiday Experiences
    People search for location-based bundles (“Charleston Sweets Bundle”).
    Tip: Collaborate with nearby businesses — oyster bars, boutiques, bakers — for limited-time holiday packages.
  6. 6
    Spotlight Local Gift Wisdom
    Charleston’s heritage is a gift.
    Tip: Share “Top 5 Charleston Gifts Under $50” in carousel posts/guides, mixing classics (pralines, prints) with trendy picks.
  7. 7
    Run a #HolyCityHoliday Contest
    UGC is huge — shoppers love sharing their Charleston moments.
    Tip: Launch a holiday photo contest with a local hashtag. Showcase winners in your feed and newsletter.
  8. 8
    Use Video Discovery Tactics
    Think Retail says YouTube drives reach and trust.
    Tip: Short videos demoing holiday products, featuring Charleston scenery, work best. Use “shoppable” links and clear calls to action.
  9. 9
    Promote Exclusive AI-Powered Deals
    Performance Max + YouTube = higher ROAS, per Google.
    Tip: Run bundled holiday deals, preview them in stories and carousels, and use AI-driven ad tools to drive local discovery.
  10. 10
    Answer Charleston Shopper FAQs
    Zero-click behavior means answers should appear in-feed.
    Tip: Share “5 Charleston Holiday Shopping Questions” (hours, parking, shipping cutoff) right in your post or story.
  11. 11
    Feature Local Holiday Events
    Tie your marketing to Charleston events (Parade, Waterfront Park lights, etc.).
    Tip: Create countdowns, show your products at events, or promote meetups in your content.
  12. 12
    Retarget & Win Back Post-Holiday Shoppers
    After Christmas, recapture interest for New Year or returns.
    Tip: Offer special January bundles, prompt reviews, and stay present in search and social feeds.