Holiday Season Marketing: Elevate Your Hotel’s Strategy in 2024

How Can Hotels Turn Experiences into the Ultimate Gift?

Forget socks, fruitcakes, and whatever awkward “handmade” thing your coworker’s selling. People want experiences! (Shocking, I know.) Over 90% of adults would pick an experience over a material gift.

So, what’s your play for holiday season marketing? Market staycations, spa packages, or decadent dining as the gift that keeps on giving. Throw in a gift card option and BOOM—you’re the MVP of their holiday shopping list.

Add some creative flair to your marketing: “Unwrap relaxation” or “The holiday escape they didn’t know they needed.” Trust me, people will bite.

Don’t forget to personalize these pitches. A romantic getaway for couples, a family adventure package for the crew, or a solo wellness retreat for those looking to ditch the chaos. Customization is your ticket to their wallets.

Why Are Staycations a Winning Strategy?

Staycations are like the PB&J of travel: simple, comforting, and somehow always a good idea. With travel costs through the roof, locals are looking for luxury without the luggage. Flaunt your spa services, your drool-worthy menu, and those hidden gems around town.

Pro tip: position it as “the getaway your boss can’t cancel.” Seriously, this resonates.

You could also spice up the offer with some local flavor—exclusive partnerships with area attractions or restaurants. Imagine this pitch: “Rediscover your city in style. No passport required.” Throw in a perk like free parking or discounted dining, and watch the bookings roll in.

How Can Hotels Stay Agile with Pricing and Promotions?

Holiday travel trends are about as predictable as a cat on catnip—you never know what’s next. That’s why dynamic pricing is your best friend. Peak-period premiums? Yes. Last-minute deals? Even better.

Koddi says flexibility wins the day, so keep your offers spicy and timely. Oh, and slap a countdown timer on those deals—people love a good panic-buy moment during the holiday season.

While you’re at it, don’t shy away from bundling. “Book two nights, get the third free” or “Save 20% on spa treatments with a suite upgrade.” These little incentives could be the nudge someone needs to hit “confirm booking.”

What Trends Should Hotels Embrace This Season?

Look, younger travelers aren’t booking just to sit in a room with beige walls and boring art. They want the stories, the selfies, and the vibes. Adventure packages, peaceful retreats, and work-from-holiday setups are where it’s at.

Make your property the “main character” of their Instagram reel. Have you considered hosting yoga retreats or guided wine tastings? Travelers eat this up—figuratively and literally.

And don’t sleep on the remote worker crowd. Work-from-holiday packages with cozy office setups, high-speed Wi-Fi, and discounted weekday rates are a no-brainer. Throw in complimentary coffee and snacks, and you’ve got a deal-maker.

When Should Holiday Marketing Begin?

The earlier, the better. If you’re not rolling out campaigns by September, you might as well wrap it up like a regifted candle. Analyze last year’s data, identify your sweet spots, and hit the ground running. Think of it as prepping for the playoffs—you don’t win by winging it.

Early birds catch the worm, but they also catch the travelers. Start teasing your deals before the holiday season madness kicks in. A drip campaign that builds anticipation? Genius. Consider releasing limited-time offers to test the waters and get people talking.

How Can Hotels Create a Festive Atmosphere?

Go big: think dazzling lights, festive displays, and that warm, fuzzy feeling people can’t resist snapping a pic of. Bonus points for events like holiday dinners or ugly sweater contests. The more Instagrammable, the better.

Oh, and don’t underestimate the power of scent. Pine, cinnamon, and vanilla wafting through the lobby? Instant nostalgia trigger. Guests love an immersive experience, and the small touches—holiday playlists, themed welcome drinks—make all the difference.

How Can Technology Streamline Operations?

Channel management software is like the GPS for your hotel—you’d be lost without it. Use it to keep availability sharp across OTAs, and automate your metasearch updates to dominate peak booking periods.

Streamlining operations with tech isn’t just smart; it’s essential for crushing your holiday season marketing goals.

Don’t stop there. Leverage AI tools to handle chat inquiries, personalize emails, and even predict booking patterns. The less time your team spends on grunt work, the more time they can spend making guests’ stays unforgettable.

Why Is Personalized Messaging Important?

Nobody likes spammy, one-size-fits-all promos. Segment your audience like a pro—families, couples, business travelers—and hit them with offers they actually care about. Add a festive flair to emails, social posts, and website banners. Personalized marketing isn’t rocket science; it’s just good manners.

Take it a step further with loyalty perks. Got a returning guest? Welcome them back with a special deal or an upgraded room. Surprise them with a complimentary dessert or a handwritten note. These little touches create big loyalty.

How Can Visual Storytelling Inspire Bookings?

You know what sells? A picture-perfect moment. Swap out those boring, year-round photos for festive snaps—think roaring fires, cozy corners, and decadent holiday spreads. If your visuals don’t make someone say, “Wow, I want to be there,” you’ve missed the mark.

Better yet, encourage guests to share their own photos. A well-timed social media contest can boost engagement and showcase your property through authentic, real-world eyes. Branded hashtags and a little incentive go a long way.

How Can Partnerships Broaden Reach?

Team up with local businesses and attractions for win-win deals. Think artisan markets, exclusive dining experiences, or even quirky tours. Cross-promotion isn’t just collaboration; it’s a turbo boost for your holiday offerings. And hey, you’ll look good supporting the local community too.

For example, partner with a local brewery for a “Sip and Stay” package or a nearby theater for discounted tickets. These partnerships expand your audience while offering guests something unique and memorable.

Take Action Now

Don’t wait for the holiday rush to pass you by. Get creative with experiential gifts, embrace staycations, and keep your pricing as nimble as a gymnast on caffeine. With the right moves, your hotel can dominate holiday season marketing like a champ. Go forth and deck those halls—your guests are waiting.

This season, it’s not just about filling rooms; it’s about creating moments that guests will talk about long after the decorations come down. Are you ready to own the holidays? Let’s make it happen.

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