I say this every year because I’ve lived it.
The year I released Gift Beneath the Star, I had no idea it would become the anchor for one of the most aligned, soul-filling seasons of my music career.
But it didn’t happen by accident. I didn’t wait until November and hope people would magically book me. I started in July with a plan.
That year, I filled my calendar with church women’s events, corporate and nonprofit luncheons, and senior centers during the week.
Weekends were reserved for keynotes, private parties and concerts that paid well and built real audience connections.
And everywhere I went, I brought that CD and other merch, wrapped up for easy purchase and gift giving. And I did giveaways that got hundreds of new signups on my email list.
The gigs paid well, and the merch sold well...but the explosion of my fan email list was the most lucrative byproduct.
Now, maybe you’re not releasing a full album this year, and that’s okay. You don’t need to.
A single holiday song, a refreshed program title, or even a creative promo of your older holiday release can breathe new life into your bookings. I’ve seen artists in my community take a Christmas EP from three years ago, rebrand it with a new show name, and book more gigs than ever before.
And that’s exactly what we’re talking about on this week’s (and last week's) podcast episode - it's a 2-part series.
I break down how to make December your highest-earning month and a major visibility builder, whether you're planning to release music, book live shows, or both.
Plus, I talk through how to do it without losing your mind if you’re also juggling family, work, or caregiving responsibilities. (Because I know so many of you are.)
This is your reminder that December is your opportunity. Not just to make money, but to show up for your audience in a way that sticks.
Holiday shows are memorable. Seasonal songs hit differently. People are more likely to buy, share, and connect.
But you have to lay the groundwork now, in July.
Start by making a list of every venue or group you've played for in the past few years. Reach out this month, especially to those weekday events that will fill your calendar before the big Saturday gigs even come in.
Then, look at your music. Do you have a Christmas song you’ve never promoted? A cover you could record and release? Could you build a themed show around an older holiday project, or bundle merch into wrapped-up gifts ready for your table?
It doesn’t have to be a huge production. It just has to be intentional.
So tell me, what’s your plan for December?
I’d love to hear if you’re thinking about releasing something, reworking an old show, or getting those bookings rolling. Hit reply and let me know.
Always in your corner,
<3 Bree
P.S. Need help mapping this all out? This month's 2-episode podcast series has you covered. Listen to it here and let’s get your holiday season working for you.
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