How to Get Your Small Business in the Game This Black Friday (Even If You’re Starting Today)
Black Friday weekend is almost here, and if you’re a small business owner, I’m willing to bet a few of these thoughts have crossed your mind:
“Should I run a sale?”
“Is it too late to put something together?”
“Will anyone even notice my offer when Amazon is shouting louder than all of us?”
Let me stop you right there — you’re not too late, and you don’t need a big, dramatic marketing plan, a giant discount, or a huge follower count to participate.
Really.
Black Friday weekend is one of the biggest visibility opportunities of the entire year for small businesses. A recent Intuit survey reported that 61% of consumers said they prefer to shop small on Small Business Saturday— the desire is there, the attention is there, and the spending is there.
Even showing up to say “hey, we’re here!” beats sitting out entirely.
Big retailers use this weekend to:
create urgency
show up early and often
make one signature offer
repeat it everywhere
Guess what?
You can do the exact same thing — in your own relationship-driven, value-forward, very-you kind of way.
And before that inner voice chimes in with:
“But I don’t have time…”
Let me reassure you:
You don’t need time.
You need:
a plan you can implement today
a template you can copy-and-paste
and the confidence to show up
Good news.
You’re about to get all three.
Let’s take what’s working for the “big guys,” put a small-business spin on it, and get your business in the game for the biggest shopping weekend of the year.
Here’s how we’ll do it in 4 simple steps:
Choose Your Game Plan
Choose Your Offer
Use the Plug-and-Play Posting Templates
Take Action (Your Weekend Checklist)
Let’s make it happen!
Step 1: Choose Your Game Plan
Let’s be clear — you do NOT need to participate in every sales event of the big weekend.
You also don’t need to feel guilty if your capacity is low.
Doing something is better than nothing.
Choose how you want to show up:
Plan A: Black Friday Only
Best for:
✔ service providers
✔ product providers looking to clear inventory
✔ anyone with holiday or seasonal products
Perfect if you’re thinking:
“I don’t want to create a whole campaign.”
Great! One day is enough.
Plan B: Small Business Saturday Only
Best for:
✔ local businesses
✔ makers + creatives
✔ anyone with a community vibe
Perfect if you’re thinking:
“I don’t want to offer a discount.”
Small Business Saturday is about connection, not coupons.
Plan C: Cyber Monday Only
Best for:
✔ digital products
✔ online services, templates, downloads
✔ subscription or membership based businesses
Perfect if you’re thinking:
“I want the simplest, fastest way to participate.”
Cyber Monday loves minimalism.
Plan D: All Three (The Ambitious Plan)
Best for:
✔ owners wanting a visibility boost
✔ businesses with more than one offer to showcase
✔ people with ready-to-go offers
Perfect if you’re thinking:
“I want to go big this year.”
Step 2: Choose Your Offer
These options are fast, simple, and do not rely on giant discounts.
(Seriously, don’t let the big guys pressure you into discounting yourself into oblivion.)
Pick the one that feels doable today.
1. The Smart Bundle
Looks Like:
Combining 2–3 of your products or services into one simple bundle and adding a small bonus.
Sounds Like:
“Signature Bundle: Your two most-loved items in one simple package (Bonus included).”
Why It Works:
Bundles increase perceived value without undercutting your pricing. They’re short, simple, clear… and instantly valuable without a discount.
Examples:
Product Business: “Holiday Self-Care Bundle: Candle + Bath Soak + Mini Notepad” (Bonus: Free gift box)
Service Provider: “Brand Boost Bundle: Brand Audit + 30-Min Strategy Call” (Bonus: 2026 Planning Worksheet)
Digital Seller: “Content Creator Bundle: 10 Canva Templates + Caption Pack” (Bonus: Reels Hook List)
Maker/Creative: “Home Décor Bundle: Christmas Sign + Ornament Set” (Bonus: Free tag personalization)
This Is For You If: You catch yourself thinking, “I don’t want to run a sale.”
2. The 2026 Jumpstart Certificate
Looks Like:
A “buy now → redeem in January” certificate for any service or offer.
Sounds Like:
“Grab your 2026 Jumpstart Certificate today and use it anytime in January.” OR “Lock in your spot now and kick off 2026 strong with this Jumpstart Certificate.”
Why It Works:
People LOVE future focused, fresh-start offers. PLUS it fills your January calendar and removes pressure to fulfill anything this week.
Examples:
Plumber: “2026 Home Plumb-Check Certificate:
Reserve your January water-heater or pipe inspection today.”Cleaning service: “2026 Home Refresh Certificate:
Secure your January deep-clean appointment today.”Salon/Beauty Provider: “2026 Glow-Up Certificate:
Purchase today and redeem in January for a fresh cut, color, or skincare treatment.”Photographer: “2026 Photo Session Jumpstart Certificate:
Grab your January mini session now — perfect for New Year imagery.”
This Is For You If: You’re thinking, “I don’t have time to fulfill anything this week,” but still want sales.
3. The Limited Quantity Incentive
Looks Like:
Offering a specific number of spots or products — once they’re gone, they’re gone.
Sounds Like:
“I only have <insert number> available — small-biz supply is REAL!”
Why It Works:
Limited quantity incentives focus decision-making and encourages faster action.
IMPORTANT:
Offer with integrity.
If you say you only have 5 — truly only have 5.
People can smell “fake scarcity” a mile away, especially from a small business.
But real limited quantity? That’s powerful.
Examples:
Hairstylist/Barber: “I opened 5 extra holiday appointments — when they’re gone, they’re gone.”
Course creator: “Only 10 bonus seats include the 1:1 call — after that, it’s closed.”
Food vendor: “I have 25 holiday packs available — micro-batch, limited run.”
This Is For You If:
You want momentum — fast — without running a discount.
4. The Holiday Bonus Offer
Looks Like:
Buy X → get a bonus Y (not a discount).
Sounds Like:
“Purchase today and I’ll add a little holiday bonus to your order.” OR “Buy X today → get Y added for free as my holiday bonus.”
Why It Works:
Bonuses feel like a treat — not a markdown. Customers feel spoiled, while you keep your pricing intact.
Examples:
Boutique: “Spend $50 → get a free pair of cozy holiday socks.”
Auto detailer: “Book a full detail → get a free scent refresh + tire shine.”
Massage Therapist: “Book a 60-min massage → get a free aromatherapy add-on.”
Freelancer (writers, designers, SMMs): “Book a January project → get a free kickoff call or audit.”
This Is For You If: You’re not in a position to lower your rates — but want to make your offer irresistible.
5. The Gift-It-Forward Deal
Looks Like:
Buy one for yourself → gift one (or a bonus) to someone else.
Sounds Like:
“A little holiday generosity: something for you, something for a friend.” OR “Gift-It-Forward: When you buy today, you get something to pass along.”
Why It Works:
People love to give during the holidays — especially when it’s made easy.
Examples:
Skincare/Beauty: “Buy a skincare bundle → gift a mini cleanser or lip balm.”
Coffee roaster: “Buy a holiday blend → gift a 2 oz sample pack.”
Photographer: “Book a 2026 session → gift a digital mini print credit.”
Social Media Manager: “Book a January audit → gift a one-page posting guide.”
This Is For You If:
You want something fun, feel-good, and incredibly easy to set up.
6. The Visibility Push (No Sale Required)
Looks Like:
Showing up, introducing yourself, and inviting others to do the same.
Sounds Like:
“No sale — just showing up and saying hello. What’s YOUR small business?” OR “If you’re a creator, maker, or small shop owner — say hi below!”
Why It Works:
High engagement boosts your reach for days — without selling a thing.
Examples:
Nail Technician: “Happy weekend! No sale today — just showing up and saying hi.
I help clients feel their best through <services>.
If you own a small business too, introduce yourself below!”Mechanic/Auto Shop: “Hello from your local mechanic!
No sale today — just staying visible and reminding you we’re here to help with car care.
Got a small business? Drop it below!”Fitness Coach/Trainer: “Quick hello this weekend — no promo, no discount, just wanted to say hi. I help people with <goals>. If you're a fellow small business owner, introduce yourself below!”
Woodworker: “Saying hello on Black Friday weekend to share one of my recent builds!
If you build, create, or own a small shop — drop yours below!”Tutor/Educator: “Checking in this weekend — no sale, just visibility.
I help students with <subject>.
If you’re a small business owner too, drop your link below!”
This Is For You If:
You don’t have anything to promote — but want major visibility to help grow your audience.
Step 3: Plug-and-Play Posting Templates
These templates are so easy that not posting would be the harder option.
Use them on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Email, or Stories.
Simply:
Copy
Paste
Fill in the blanks
Add a simple photo or graphic
Press post
BLACK FRIDAY TEMPLATES
Template 1 — The Smart Bundle Spotlight
Black Friday is HERE and I’m opening my <Smart Bundle Name> — a simple, high-value bundle designed to make your life easier.
Here’s what’s inside:
👉 <insert item 1>
👉 <insert item 2>
🎁 Bonus today only: <insert bonus>
Comment INFO and I’ll send details your way.
Template 2 — The Holiday Bonus Offer
Today only: grab <insert offer> and I’ll automatically add <insert bonus> as my Black Friday gift to you.
No discount needed — just a little extra holiday magic.
Comment BONUS for the link.
Template 3 — The Gift-It-Forward Deal
Buy one for yourself → gift one to someone you love.
When you purchase <insert offer> today, you’ll receive <insert gift-forward bonus> to share.
Comment GIFT and I’ll send it your way.
Template 4 — The 2026 Jumpstart Certificate
If you want to start 2026 strong, this is your moment.
Buy now → redeem anytime in January.
Simple, fresh, and ready for the New Year.
Comment 2026 for the link.
Template 5 — The Limited Quantity Drop
I only have <insert number> available today — when they’re gone, they’re gone.
Offer: <insert offer>
Comment LIMITED to claim one.
Template 6 — No-Sale Visibility Boost
No sale — just showing up and saying hello.
I’m <name> and I run <business>.
Here’s what I offer: <1–2 lines>.
What’s YOUR small business? Drop it below so I can cheer you on.
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY TEMPLATES
Template 1 — Shop Small, Support Big Dreams
It’s Small Business Saturday — thank you for supporting big dreams built by small teams.
Today’s offer: <insert offer>
Drop YOUR small business below so I can celebrate you!
Template 2 — Community Comes First
Today is for the makers, doers, and dreamers.
Supporting small means lifting up real people — not corporations.
My offer today → <insert offer>
Tell me what YOU sell so I can cheer you on!
Template 3 — The “Support Small Today” List
Want to support small businesses today?
✔ Share a small business you love
✔ Save their posts
✔ Comment to boost visibility
✔ Shop small when you can
My offer today: <insert offer>
Drop your business below so I can share a few!
Template 4 — Simple Thank You
Happy Small Business Saturday ❤️
Thank you for supporting my work, my family, and this little corner of the internet.
Today’s offer: <insert offer>
Drop your business — I’m sharing some in Stories!
Template 5 — Story Prompt
Story Text:
“Happy Small Business Saturday!
Here’s how you can support my work today:
👉 <insert offer>
👉 <insert link>
Tag a small business you love!”
CYBER MONDAY TEMPLATES
Template 1 — Digital Day
Cyber Monday is for the digital goodies — and today only, I’m opening <insert digital offer>.
Bonus today only: <insert bonus>
If you want a fast win before the year ends, this is it.
Comment CYBER for the link.
Template 2 — One Day, One Offer
One day. One offer.
Cyber Monday is short and sweet — here’s what I’m featuring:
👉 <insert offer>
Perfect for anyone who wants <insert quick win>.
Comment ON IT for details.
Template 3 — Solve a Problem Fast
Cyber Monday isn’t about stuff — it’s about solutions.
If you need <insert result or outcome>, today’s your chance.
Offer: <insert offer>
DM SOLVE to grab it.
Template 4 — Last Call of the Weekend
Last call!
Cyber Monday is the final chance to grab <insert offer> this weekend.
If you’ve been thinking about it, now’s your moment.
Comment LAST CALL to claim yours.
Template 5 — The Fastest Way to Support Small
Want to support a small business fast?
Grab <insert offer> today only.
No pressure. Just impact.
DM FAST for the link.
BONUS: No-Sale Visibility Templates to use ANY Day of the Weekend
I just couldn’t help myself. I really do want every small business owner to get in on the Black Friday weekend fun. These are perfect if you’re overwhelmed, not offering a sale, or simply want to build visibility.
1. Small Business Roll Call
“Small Business Roll Call!
Drop your business name and what you do below so we can all discover something new.”
2. Introduce Yourself
“Quick hello from your local small business! I’m <name>, and I run <business>.
If you’re new here, here’s what I offer: <insert 1–2 lines>.
Comment what YOU do so I can cheer you on!”
3. Behind-the-Scenes Spotlight
“Happy <Black Friday/Small Business Saturday/Cyber Monday> — just a look behind the scenes of my small business.
Here’s what I’m working on this season… <insert>.
Show me what YOU’RE working on in the comments!”
4. Tell Me Your Business (Community Boost)
“Let’s make some noise for small business this weekend!
Comment your business + what you sell and I’ll share a few in Stories.”
5. Share Your Story Post
“In honor of this weekend, here’s a bit of WHY I started my small business: <insert 1–2 lines>.
Drop your origin story below — I’d love to celebrate you!”
6. Customer Love Post
“No sale — just gratitude.
If you’ve purchased from my small business this year, THANK YOU.
If you’re a small-business owner too, drop your link so we can support you today!”
STORY-READY PROMPTS
Story Prompt 1 — Introduce Yourself
“Small Business Roll Call!
I’m <name>, I run <business>.
What’s your business? Tell me below!”
Story Prompt 2 — Show Your Workspace
“Behind the scenes of my small business today.
Show me YOUR workspace!”
Story Prompt 3 — Simple Engagement Boost
“Support small businesses today:
💛 Comment your business
💛 Tag a friend
💛 Share this story
Let’s grow together!”
Step 4: Take Action
TODAY:
✔ Pick ONE offer
✔ Pick ONE template
✔ Use a simple Canva graphic or a photo of you (easy is best)
✔ Save your caption template in your Notes app so you don’t have to go digging for it later — or even worse, create it all on the spot.
THE DAY BEFORE:
✔ Tease it in Stories
✔ (Optional) Email your list
✔ Set reminders so you don’t forget to post
BLACK FRIDAY → CYBER MONDAY:
✔ Copy/Paste your post and hit publish!
✔ Answer every comment
✔ Share customer tags
✔ Boost other small businesses
✔ Don’t become a deer in the headlights — follow your plan and take action. Momentum > perfection.
Let’s Wrap This Up
Black Friday weekend is a massive moment for small businesses —
and your business deserves to be part of it.
Pick your offer.
Grab a template.
Post it proudly.
And get your business in the game. 🖤
If this guide helped you:
➡️ Save it so you can use it all weekend
➡️ Share it with a fellow small-business owner
➡️ Pin it for next year's planning