With
many mothers wearing more hats than usual and grandmas missing visits from
their grandchildren, consumers are looking for ways to make Mother’s Day bigger
and sweeter than ever in 2020. This week, we’re sharing fun ways for consumers
to celebrate and feel connected even when apart.
Limited-Time Offers
Bring
back seasonal confections for a limited time and require advance orders. If you
typically offer caramel apples during the fall or chocolate-covered
strawberries for Valentine’s Day, consider bringing these seasonal favorites
back for the week leading up to Mother’s Day.
One-Stop Shop
Since
it’s difficult to stop by multiple retailers at this time, think of ways to
provide a one-stop shopping experience. Bundle chocolate with gift items and
remind consumers if you offer gift wrapping and greeting cards. Partner with
other local businesses, like florists and coffee shops, to expand your reach
while supporting fellow businesses and ease the strain if you are short
staffed.
Treats to Ship
Bundle
warm-weather treat for consumers who may need to ship gifts, but don’t want the
extra expense required for shipping chocolate in the heat. Check out our blog
post for 5 Sweets that Beat the
Heat.
These treats are good options if your community allows sidewalk sales or food
trucks to operate.
Gourmet S’mores Kits
Create
gourmet s’mores kits and share tips for outdoor enthusiasts to create memorable
camp-in experiences. Check out this past blog post for ideas on how to
take your s’mores to the next level. The Washington State Parks Foundation offers programming for
viewers to enjoy camping activities from their living rooms and back yards.
Subscription Boxes
Create
a sweet subscription box, giving shoppers the option to answer a survey to help
select the recipient’s favorite treats. This ensures a steady supply of sweet
treats for Mom and reoccurring sales for you.
Take-and-Make Treat Kits
Invite
families to make memories together with take-and-make Mother’s Day treat kits.
Along with instructions, share a link to your video tutorial for them to follow
along.
Ice Cream Sundae Kits
If
you sell ice cream, create ice cream sundae kits as a way to upsell pints
paired with candy toppings, chocolate and caramel sauces and decorative
sprinkles. Make your own “magic” chocolate shell sauce by adding coconut oil to
melted chocolate.
Virtual Tasting Kits
Create
virtual tasting kits with tasting guides in sets of two. Consider offering
add-ons at a discount so the whole family can experience tasting together
virtually. Partner with a local liquor shop, winery or coffee maker to pair chocolates
with Mom’s favorite beverages.
Customizable Gifts
Give
shoppers the opportunity to customize their gifts by offering options to build
their own care packages, choose the recipient’s favorite color ribbon or
packaging/gift wrap. Use free tools like Canva and Vecteezy to design beautiful custom wraps for chocolate
bars or boxed chocolates.
Pin It to Win It
If
you aren’t already taking advantage of Pinterest to promote and sell your
products, now is the time! Now, more than ever, shoppers are relying on social
media for news, inspiration and entertainment. Create Mother’s Day themed
boards and post purchasable gift ideas perfect for moms with a sweet tooth. Click here to learn more.
Although
many holidays and celebrations look different these days, embrace the
opportunity to think creatively and continue to evolve your business. Share in
the comments below, creative ways you plan to celebrate moms this year.
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