Is it too soon to talk about the holiday season? 
I think now is the time to plan for a memorable holiday in your store.
Collaborating with other small businesses strengthens your community presence and expands your reach. Enhancing the customer experience ensures that every shopper who walks in feels valued, appreciated, and inspired to return.

The holidays are more than just a busy sales season—they become a chance to create magic. To remind people why shopping local matters. To fill your store with laughter, music, and moments that turn first-time visitors into lifelong customers.

So this year, light up your store, open your doors, and let your community know: your business is where the holiday spirit lives.

A memorable customer experience doesn’t always require big investments. Sometimes, it’s the little things that count — like offering free gift wrapping, personalized recommendations, or simply remembering a regular customer’s name.

Add thoughtful holiday touches like

• Complimentary hot cocoa or cider.
• A cheerful “thank you” note tucked into each bag.
• A cozy corner with seating for tired shoppers.
• Holiday music that sets a joyful mood (without overwhelming).

When customers feel genuinely cared for, they’re far more likely to choose your store over impersonal online retailers—and tell their friends to do the same.

If you are a small business owner here on Maui, you have a personal invitation to an event that happens on the 4th Friday of every month. It's called
*Maui SmallBiz Think Tank. This meeting offers small business owners, entrepreneurs, and freelancers a chance to connect, share, and problem-solve together. 
It's from 11:15am to 12:30pm in Wailuku at the Pono Center.  A small lunch is provided. Please RSVP. Learn more here.

*Maui Business Brainstormers (MBB) is a B2B grassroots support group in Maui County since 2012. We bring the small business community together.