Start Planning Now for a Successful Holiday Art Season

The fall and holiday months are some of the busiest — and most profitable — times of the year for artists. With big events like Art Attack coming up November 14–16, 2025 and countless winter markets, now is the time to get ready so you can make the most of the season. Here are key steps to set yourself up for strong sales and memorable connections with collectors.

Define Your Personal Brand

Buyers remember more than just a single piece — they remember you and what makes your art unique. Ask yourself:

What’s the consistent thread in your work?
How do you want people to describe your art after seeing it?
What feeling or story connects your pieces together?

Having a clear identity makes it easier for collectors to connect with your work, remember you, and return for more.

Develop a Range of Products & Price Points

Not every collector is ready for a large original, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to take a piece of your work home. Consider offering:

Large originals for serious collectors
Smaller works for buyers just getting started
Prints in multiple sizes so art lovers can choose what fits their space
Mini works, holiday cards, or giftable items for casual buyers and impulse purchases

A variety of options ensures you connect with different budgets — and increases your overall sales.

Organize & Photograph Your Work

Now’s the time to take inventory of what you’ll have available this season. Keep track of titles, sizes, prices, and availability. High-quality photographs of your artwork are essential for:

Making prints
Online listings and social media promotion
Email newsletters to past buyers
Event applications and catalogs
Creating postcards, signage, or other marketing materials

Great images help your art stand out — and are often the difference between “just browsing” and making a sale.

Refresh Your Online Presence

Collectors often look you up before buying, so make sure your website and social media are up to date. Post consistently, highlight new pieces, and let followers know where they can see you in person this fall. (I’m also a web developer and can help you with marketing.)

Plan Your Promotions

Don’t wait until November to think about holiday sales. Map out your promotions now:

Announce your upcoming events
Offer early-bird specials or limited editions
Bundle smaller works together for gift sets

A little planning now means less stress (and more sales) when the season is in full swing. More marketing ideas here!

Make Connections with Galleries & Other Artists

Art Attack! is one of the biggest Twin Cities art events of the year, and it’s not just about showing your own work — it’s about making connections. Start reaching out now to:

Galleries — Ask about available space, guest artist opportunities, or group exhibitions during Art Attack weekend.
Fellow artists — Consider sharing booth or studio space. Splitting the cost and collaborating can increase foot traffic and help you reach new audiences.
Collectives — Many studios and art groups welcome guest artists during the November rush. A strong presentation alongside other creatives can make a big impact.

Networking early ensures you have a spot during the event and can focus on making sales when the crowds arrive. Learn more about getting into galleries.

Build Relationships Early

Start reaching out to your collectors and fans now. Send a newsletter or postcard letting them know you’ll have new work available this season. A personal invitation goes a long way — and beautiful images make it unforgettable.

The Bottom Line

The holiday season is your chance to connect with new collectors, strengthen relationships, and boost your sales. With planning, a clear brand, a range of products, and professional presentation, you’ll set yourself up for your best season yet. I have lots more ideas for you on my Artist Resources page.

*Seagull Lake by Dan Olson