Memorable ways to thank customers

Customer appreciation ideas for the holidays

thank customers

Think about a time you felt appreciated for your efforts. Evoking that same "feel good" sensation in your customers can be the difference between a one-time purchase and a lifelong customer who keeps coming back for more. 


The holiday shopping season often inspires reflection and gratitude. This holiday season, surprise and delight your customers by taking the time to celebrate them and let them know they are important to your business.


Send a personalized "thank you" note

There is a lot of value in a well-written "thank you" note. Not all "thank you" notes are created equal, though. Personalization and a little creativity are the difference between delight and disinterest. When thinking about customer "thank you" notes for the holiday season, segment your customer list into two groups: 

  • New customers
  • Existing customers

For new customers, sending a virtual "thank you" note can go a long way no matter what industry you are in. For existing customers, a handwritten note is unexpected and lets your customer know that you went the extra mile to let them know you appreciate their business. A virtual "thank you" note for existing customer appreciation works too, and there are ways to make an email feel customized, personal, and memorable. 


No matter which type of "thank you" message you're sending, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your message elevates your customers' experience: 

  • Write like a human and not like a robot. A "thank you" email should feel like it was written specifically for that customer to ensure your message comes across as genuine and memorable. 
  • A recorded video message can go a long way and create a deeper connection with a long-time customer. Or, for new customers, an animated video or thoughtful email with animated elements will stand out in your customer's inbox.

Finally, make sure that new customers and existing customers get the right message delivered to them by making sure you have an email marketing strategy in place. That way, you can plan, deliver, and analyze the results of your email "thank you" notes this holiday season.

Host a virtual or in-person customer appreciation experience

A customer appreciation event during the holidays can be anything from a virtual networking experience on Zoom to a live video with holiday giveaways, or even a free cooking or mixology class! You know your customers best. Pick an event that resonates with their interests, or send them an email with a poll to let them choose.


You can choose to include everyone or make the event an invite-only holiday giveaway experience for long-standing customers. The options are endless.

Create a social media campaign to celebrate your most loyal customers

Social media is one of the most engaging ways to interact with your customers. With a social media marketing plan, you can learn which customers are most engaged with your business online. Then, you can create posts throughout the holiday season that highlight your most loyal customers. For example, try creating a thoughtfully designed "thank you" image and include the names of your top 10 fans. Or you can spend extra time during the holiday thanking customers on social media through comments and direct messages and sharing reviews from happy customers with a "thank you" note.

Reward loyal customers with special offers and new customers with surprise offers

Customers will always appreciate a good deal, whether it's a discount on products or services or a free item. Offering a surprise discount to a new customer after purchase via automated personal email marketing is a great, cost-effective way to encourage them to return and make another purchase. Additionally, you can go above and beyond for your top 10 loyal customers and include a special "thank you" gift card for a free product or service.

Host a customer appreciation week during the holidays

This year, publicly dedicate an entire week to customer appreciation. Poll your customers via email or using social media by asking them, "How can we thank you?" to get some inspiration. Make sure to include your own surprises, including personalized "thank you" notes, events, giveaways, flash sales, and exclusive shopping experiences. Your customers will appreciate


feeling appreciated and remember it well beyond the holiday season.

Ready to say "thanks" this holiday season?

Customer loyalty is vital to your business' growth and success. Ideas we mentioned above like personalized "thank you" notes, events, and customer appreciation social media campaigns can all work together within a larger strategy dedicated to consistent customer appreciation efforts. Show your customers you appreciate them this season and reap the rewards long after the Christmas lights go out!

Ready to cover more of your holiday bases? Visit full holiday hub.