During the summer, some business owners experience a drop in sales. People go on vacation, social networking numbers drop, and the usual ways of business don’t seem to bring the same results. But it doesn’t have to be this way! People are still spending money in the summer. You just need to be a bit creative to encourage those people to keep spending with your business. Here are some tips to keep your business thriving throughout the summer months:

1. Host a Summer Bash – People like to kick back and relax when the summer gets warm. So offer a party! Host a summer bash that offers food, fun and music. It’s a great way to attract families, and encourages them to bring their friends which can potentially open you up to new business. Post the flyer around town, as well as on local event websites, and sell tickets for the food (or team up with local restaurants to offer it.) It’s a great way to generate buzz and visibility for your business.
2. Get a Booth at a Local Farmer’s Market – Farmer’s markets today offer much more than just produce, and many consumers look forward to shopping there weekly. Get a regular table at your local farmer’s market. You can offer products for sale while also generating new interest in your business. And take time to talk to the other vendors there. Often a community develops among the regulars, and they may begin to refer other business to you, as well as telling you about other markets where you may do well.
3. Offer Summer Workshops – During the summer, people often look for workshops, camps and other events for both themselves and their children. Local communities offer weekly learning events. So think about what you can teach related to what you have to offer, and offer workshops that will teach new skills while also exposing more people to your business. The business you cultivate in summer can bring you income all year!
4. Christmas in Summer – Chances are, the holidays are your most productive time of the year. So offer a “Christmas in Summer” event. Pull out those holiday decorations, and offer specials that help people begin their holiday shopping early (saving them stress!) Host a holiday-themed event and serve holiday cookies, play holiday music, and make the even light-hearted in fun. It can be a great way for people to beat the summer heat and shop at your business.
   
5. Take Your Business With You on Vacation – Are you going on vacation? Don’t leave your business behind! Take along promotional items that talk about your business, and be sure to network with people you meet along the way. When someone shares a need they have that your business can meet, be sure to share information about your business. If you sell through parties or appointments, try to schedule some in the city you’re visiting ahead of time. By planning ahead, you can develop some new business, and possibly even write off your trip as a business expense (check with your tax advisor on this!)

Summer doesn’t have to mean a drop in business. You simply need to look at your business differently, and create opportunities that work with what people want to do.

How do you keep your business thriving in summer? Would love to read your thoughts in the comments below!