Be Mine

As booksellers, we’re natural matchmakers. But that doesn’t mean we can wait until February to think about how to participate in the $15 billion dollar holiday. It’s a good idea to brainstorm Valentine’s promotions 5 to 6 weeks out… which is now.

I’ll give you a few ideas over the next few days, but one that I love is a “Funny Little Valentine” Writing Contest. Invite customers to write essays about first dates, last dates, blind dates… only dates?

To plan a great writing contest, you need rules, judges, promotion and prizes. Here’s a sample plan and timeline for you if you think it’s a good fit for your store. And if you’d like for me to send editable collateral for this promotion, send me an e-mail through the form below.



Beth Golay

Beth is a reader, writer, marketer and Books & Whatnot founder. Even though she knows better, she's a sucker for a good book cover and will positively swoon if a book is set in appropriate type. @BethGolay