What Print Materials Should My Business Send for the Holidays?

The holidays are a busy, competitive time for businesses, with everyone vying for their customers’ attention. A well-planned print campaign can help your brand rise above the noise, but only if you choose materials that truly connect.

Since 1988, Lithographic Communications has been designing and printing holiday marketing pieces that get results. The most effective strategies we’ve seen focus on:

• Choosing materials that are actually useful and appeal to your audience
• Creating festive, eye-catching designs that feel original
• Adding personalization to build a genuine connection

In this post, we’ll explore why these choices work and share practical ways to help your holiday marketing stand out from the rest.

Is Print Marketing Still Effective for the Holidays?

Absolutely. Print remains one of the most powerful ways to reach customers during the holidays. Physical materials create a real, tangible experience that digital messages often lack.

While inboxes overflow with unread promotional emails, a printed piece is something people physically hold and spend time with. That moment of interaction increases brand recall and builds an emotional link, making your business feel more personal and memorable.

What Holiday Marketing Are Consumers Sick Of?

Let’s be honest, while print marketing is still effective, people are tired of receiving the same generic catalogs and impersonal greeting cards year after year. When mail feels like it was sent to everyone, it loses its impact.

The key is quality and thoughtfulness, not quantity. Overly salesy or repetitive messaging can make your brand blend into the pile instead of standing out. By sending materials that feel genuine and creative, you turn an everyday piece of mail into something your customers actually enjoy opening.

What Print Marketing Materials Do Consumers Like Getting the Most During the Holidays?

So, what kind of print pieces do people actually enjoy opening this time of year? The ones that feel useful and worth keeping. For most small businesses, these formats consistently stand out:

Personalized Coupons

Everyone loves a deal, especially one that feels just for them. Exclusive or limited-time offers encourage quick action and build loyalty. Keep redemption simple, whether in-store or online.

Postcards

A bright, festive postcard is quick to read and hard to ignore. Use bold visuals, friendly messaging, and a clear call to action so customers know exactly what to do next.

Greeting Cards

Go beyond a generic “Happy Holidays.” A short, heartfelt thank-you shows real appreciation. For your VIP clients, add a handwritten note or a line referencing a past purchase. It goes a long way.

Mini Catalogs or Gift Guides

A small, well-designed catalog or gift guide helps customers find great ideas fast while subtly promoting your products or services.

Creative Inserts or Packaging

Small details make a big difference. Branded stickers, tags, or even a fun insert can make your mailing feel like a thoughtful gift instead of an ad.

When your print materials are useful, customers look forward to receiving them and won’t just throw them out.

How Should I Design My Holiday Print Materials to Get Noticed?

Design plays a huge role in whether your marketing gets noticed or ignored. Your materials should reflect your brand’s personality while creating a sense of holiday cheer.

Design Tips for Success:

• Use festive colors such as red, green, gold, or silver to set the seasonal tone.
• Keep layouts clean and focused on one main message.
• Make your logo visible but not overwhelming.
• Include a clear call to action like “Shop Now,” “Visit Us,” or “Redeem Your Offer.”

Strong design isn’t about adding more; it’s about creating balance and clarity that invite attention.

How Many Print Materials Should I Send to My Customers for the Holidays?

Finding the right balance is key. Sending too many pieces can strain your budget, while sending too few limits your reach. Instead of guessing, start by segmenting your audience.

How to Do This:

• Send premium, personalized cards to your top-tier customers and festive postcards to your wider base.
• Mail your materials in late November or early December so they arrive before the holiday rush.
• Track what works year to year, adjusting your quantities and messaging for stronger results.

How Do I Personalize Holiday Print Materials for Each Client?

Personalization transforms holiday marketing from a sales pitch into a thoughtful gesture. When customers feel seen and appreciated, they’re more likely to respond and remember your business.

Easy Ways to Personalize:

• Use variable data printing to include names, tailored offers, or product suggestions.
• Add short handwritten notes for loyal clients to make each piece feel one-of-a-kind.
• Highlight products or services based on what each customer values most.

Even small personal touches can turn a standard mailer into something meaningful.

Make Your Holiday Marketing Memorable

Standing out during the holidays isn’t about how much you send. When your print pieces are personal, well-designed, and created with care, they build stronger connections and lasting impressions.

Ready to create holiday marketing that people actually look forward to opening? Contact Lithographic Communications today, and let’s bring your vision to life.