Best Ways to Thank Your Vendors and Customers

Now is the perfect time of year to show appreciation to your customers and vendors. After all, it’s these individuals who help keep you in business year-round.

Giving them some warm “thanks” for their loyalty and patronage not only guarantees they’ll partner and stay with you for years to come but doing so can also provide assurance that you’ll receive some referral business. So, what’s the best way to show your vendors and customers how much you appreciate them this holiday season?

Check out these best ways to thank your vendors and customers:

Custom Christmas Cards

One of the most popular and budget-friendly options for showing thanks is by sending holiday cards. This year, consider sending out custom holiday photo cards that include a photo of your company or organization’s staff. For extra fun, create a poster with a special message and have employees hold the sign front and center during the snapshot. You could also consider different photo backgrounds that include each vendor’s display at your company. In addition to the cards themselves, order some photo holders to mix and match your selections. You’ll find an array of festive card designs and printed messages from which to choose. Whatever you decide, order early and mail out your cards at least three weeks before Christmas.

Christmas Open House

If you’re wanting something on a grander scale, consider hosting a Christmas open house exclusively for your current customer base or vendor roster. Organize your event with tables displaying festive centerpieces that highlight each vendors’ contribution to your business. For example, if you have a vendor that supplies your downtown boutique with specialty soaps, create a festive display showcasing their products. Additionally, you might want to offer a special sales event for this private holiday celebration that allows your vendors and customers to get first grabs on new holiday merchandise. Pop open the champagne and say a toast of thanks before the evening ends!

A Gift of Thanks

Thinking of doing a little more for your customers and vendors this year? Well, they’ll no doubt be pleasantly surprised with a holiday gift of thanks. Formulate a budget and solicit input from colleagues if you have more than a handful of recipients to consider. While giving out company swag is often done throughout the year, consider gift cards for restaurants, coffee shops, event tickets, or concerts. Another budget-friendly option for smaller organizations might include Christmas stockings filled with products from the store and/or gift cards. No matter what holiday gift(s) you decide to give, make it memorable by adding your company’s personal handwritten, holiday message that’s addressed specifically to each of your vendors and customers.

Night On the Town

Are the Rockettes in town? If you’re looking for holiday event ideas with plenty of sparkle and fun, consider booking a reservation at a dinner theatre or go all-out and get those tickets to see the Rockettes! Your vendors will love the festive scene, and you’ll enjoy an evening of entertainment minus the clean-up. If you’re in the mood to splurge even more, rent a limo and have your guests picked up from their homes. Be sure to stock the limo bar with plenty of beverages for toasting your guests after the show.

Make Everything Merry and Bright for Those Who Matter Most

Setting the mood for a special holiday occasion that celebrates your customers and/or vendors starts with planning that’s centered around the people who help your business thrive. When organizing your holiday event, be mindful of your customers’ and vendors’ contributions to your success as you plan how to show thanks for their loyalty. And make sure the atmosphere you create is truly a celebration of the prosperous relationships you enjoy. May the future be merry and bright!