If you’re in the holiday lighting business, you already know: one good season sets up the next. The work you do now—from the jobs you take to the photos you snap—can be the difference between steady growth and truly shining bright next year.
Here are a few simple, smart ways to make your 2025 season sparkle and set yourself up for an even stronger 2026.
Capture the Magic: Before & After Photos
Your work deserves the spotlight—literally.
For every job, big or small, take a before and after photo. Whether you’re lighting up a single tree or transforming a full property, photos are your best tool to show potential clients exactly what you can do.
A few pro tips for better photos:
- Take your “before” photo before any lights go up—capture the whole space.
- Leave some breathing room (a little empty space around your subject) so your photos crop nicely for social posts.
- Shoot your “after” photo at dusk or sunset—it’s the sweet spot for even lighting that makes your display glow.
- A quick photo edit can go a long way! On your phone, try bumping up highlights and dialing down shadows to make those LEDs pop.
Plan Your Social Media Presence
Think of your social media like your digital storefront. The more active and engaging it is, the more clients will come knocking.
Start early! Begin posting at least 30 days before your season starts. Share last year’s best before-and-afters, spotlight new products from your trusted suppliers (like Holidynamics, of course!), and show behind-the-scenes prep work with your crew.
When your season kicks into gear, aim for one post a week minimum—and if you can, daily updates keep your audience glowing with excitement.
Bonus tip: Most social platforms let you schedule posts in advance—so plan ahead, set them up, and let your posts shine on autopilot. Just don’t forget to reply to comments and messages; engagement builds relationships.
Yard Signs that Work While You Don’t
Every property you decorate can help advertise your business. Ask customers if they’d be willing to display a yard sign featuring your company logo, an eye-catching photo, and simple contact info.
Make your signs short, sweet, and easy to read—think of them as mini billboards that spread holiday cheer and brand awareness.
If yard signs aren’t an option, leave behind a few business cards or “thank you” cards with your contact info. It’s a great way to stay top-of-mind when your customers’ neighbors start asking, “Who did your lights this year?”
Ask for Reviews (and Show Them Off!)
A glowing review is worth its weight in tinsel.
Encourage every customer to leave a review after their install—it can be as easy as a reminder on your business card (“Love your lights? Leave us a review!”).
Free platforms like Google Business and Yelp make it easy for potential clients to find and trust you.
Helpful links to get started:
Once those reviews come in, feature them proudly! A few testimonials and high-quality photos can instantly elevate your brand online.
Prep Now, Shine Later: Planning for 2026
When the lights come down and the ladders are packed away, it’s time to plan your comeback tour.
Gather your favorite before-and-after photos, testimonials, and team shots that best represent your company. Use these assets to refresh your website, social pages, and marketing materials.
Then, take a step back and ask yourself:
- Does our branding still reflect who we are?
- Do we need new signage, uniforms, or vehicle wraps?
- What worked this season—and what could be improved?
Small tweaks in your off-season can lead to huge results when the next busy season rolls around.
Pro tip: Use a digital calendar or reminder app to map out marketing deadlines, reorder supplies early, and keep next year’s schedule running smoother than a sleigh on fresh snow.
The Takeaway
Building your lighting business isn’t just about the installs—it’s about creating a reputation that lasts long after the lights go out.
Take the time this season to capture your work, connect with customers, and polish your brand. The extra effort now will make your 2026 season brighter than ever.
After all, success doesn’t happen by chance—it happens by design.
