In the Carmel Arts & Design District, you’ll find holiday lights, wreaths, Santa Claus and carolers. Capitalizing on that holiday spirit, local businesses are joining together for promotion to try to increase sales during the gift-giving season.
Starting Nov. 21, several businesses will participate in “Festive Fridays,” an event where special deals and discounts will be available along with seasonal entertainment such as music and giveaways.
David Maxwell and Stephen Hannah, of The Olive Mill, came up with the idea because so many customers asked them to stay open later on some nights and they brainstormed some ways to attract shoppers after they were done eating at nearby restaurants.
They came up with the idea of cross promoting with other businesses in order to increase traffic for everyone.
“People are going out to eat and they are going to come to this area,” Maxwell said. “So make it an evening and enjoy some shopping.”
The Olive Mill will be extending its hours to 8 p.m. on Fridays during the holidays and they are recruiting other businesses to join them. Stephanie Marshall, special events coordinator for Carmel, and the Arts & Design District Business Association of Carmel are both working with The Olive Mill to give the promotion a special event feel.
A complete list of discounts and participating businesses is available at www.festivefridayscarmel.com. Any businesses who want to participate can call 574-9200 or e-mail [email protected].
