When it comes to the holidays, every business wants to get in front of busy parents looking for easy, meaningful gifts. For family entertainment venues, the answer is right at your fingertips, gift cards.
They’re simple, high-margin, and help fill your venue long after the holidays are over. But the real secret isn’t just offering them, it’s how you promote them through email.
Holiday emails already perform 15–20% better than average, and gift card emails often outperform them all. With the right timing and tone, your next campaign can turn “last-minute shoppers” into “future guests.”
When to Send Gift Card Campaigns
Timing matters just as much as your offer. Here’s a schedule that keeps you visible all season long:
- Early Bird (Nov 15–20) — Reach planners early with a bonus deal:
“Buy $50, get $10 free” or “Secure your family’s fun for January, get a free snack card included!”
- Last-Minute Reminder (Dec 20–24) — Target families and friends buying for others:
*“Still looking for the perfect gift? Buy a gift card for your family or a friend and bring a guest free!”
- Post-Holiday Break-Out Offer (Dec 26–Jan 1) — Encourage families to get out of the house and recharge:
“Give yourself a break, and your kids an adventure: Save 20% on weekday visits this week only!”
Schedule these emails all at once so they go out automatically, even while you’re running the floor or hosting events.
(Tip: Aluvii’s Growth Marketing Module makes scheduling easy and keeps your emails consistent.)
How to Design Emails That Actually Convert
When it comes to visuals, skip the stock photos of wrapped boxes. Show the real fun: kids laughing, parents relaxing, glowing lights, or a family celebrating at your venue.
Keep your subject lines simple, direct, and festive:
- “The easiest gift you’ll give this year 🎁”
- “Buy now, play later, family fun awaits!”
- “Instant smiles, instant delivery, get your gift cards today!”
Inside the email:
- One clear call-to-action button
- No clutter, just a warm message and a reason to click “Buy.”
Why Gift Card Emails Work So Well
Gift cards bridge two powerful ideas: simplicity for the buyer and anticipation for the recipient. They’re the easiest present for parents, grandparents, and friends who want to give a fun experience instead of more “stuff.”
They also drive future business. Every redeemed card means another visit, more food and more chances for repeat bookings.
Even one well-timed email can make a measurable difference in your revenue,
Fit Gift Cards Into Your Holiday Email Plan
Gift card emails work best when they’re part of a bigger strategy. Think of them as one piece in your holiday campaign calendar:
- Week 1: Announce your holiday events
- Week 2: Promote gift cards
- Week 3: Send your “thank you” or “bounce-back” offer
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This approach helps your emails build on each other instead of competing for attention, and keeps your venue top-of-mind throughout the entire season.
The Gift That Keeps Guests Coming Back
Gift cards are simple to sell, but the real win is what they start; a cycle of visits, memories, and repeat customers.
This year don’t just print gift cards and hope they sell. Use email to tell the story, schedule your campaigns ahead of time, and watch your venue stay busy well past the holidays.
With Aluvii’s Growth Marketing Module, you can easily plan and automate every step, or let our team help set up your holiday campaigns for you.
Ready to make this your best holiday season yet?
Start scheduling your gift card emails today and see how easy it is to spread a little joy (and boost your bookings).
Current Aluvii customer? Contact your Account Manager or email [email protected] to learn how to set up your campaign calendar.
New to Aluvii? Book a free demo to see how easy it can be to stay connected and grow your bookings.
