As the Curtain Falls on 2025

by Skip Cohen

We're down to the wire for December seasonality, but there are still a few loose ends you should check as we head into essentially the last weekend of the year. You don't want to miss anything! I heard a comedian once say, "It'll be my luck when my ship comes in; I'll be at the airport!"

It's a funny line, but sadly, it's the way some of us feel at times. But it's just a one-liner and doesn't have to be your reality.The opportunities for any last-minute marketing or promotional ideas are gone. Yet you've still got time to tie up a few things before the close of 2025.

• New Gear: Are there specific pieces of equipment you need to purchase to qualify for a tax break this year?
• Have you called your lab? It's a simple phone call with one question: "What's new?" Technology never stands still. You need to know what's new, but don't forget what's old. For example, canvas prints are old to us but not to many consumers. Don't forget to find out if they have any specials for Imaging USA!
• Have you made all your arrangements for IUSA? Remember to include contact with old friends and associates you want to have dinner with while at the convention.
• Saying thank you! Don't forget to recognize those who have exceeded your expectations in support of you and your business. Take a look at your network. Whether it's a fruit basket, a bottle of wine, or a flower arrangement, there's still time for a more formal thanks to that handful of people who have watched your back.
• Community involvement: There's still time for you to lend a hand and be a part of nonprofit projects going on in your community over the holidays. Remember, whatever you're helping with, it doesn't have to include photography. This is about you being out in the community and being seen as more than just another retailer.

Here's my point: Procrastination is not a marketing strategy. Don't miss a few of those last-minute opportunities to bring 2025 to a stronger close simply because you were lazy!