As we dive into 2025, one thing is clear: small business marketing is all about connection. Emerging influencer marketing tactics, cross-industry collaboration and DIY design tools have all made it easier than ever for small business owners to engage with customers authentically.
Here’s how your business can take advantage of a few 2025 marketing trends, picked by a global community of creatives who work with small businesses every year through VistaPrint.
Relatability Is The New Influence
Your social media content doesn’t need to be picture-perfect. In fact, prioritizing content from brand advocates who relate to your customers can have a major impact.
Think about the story that built your brand and then give authentic ambassadors the room to bring those traits to life. This approach will ensure your message resonates with audiences, fostering brand loyalty.
And don’t forget about those who know your brand best: your employees. Peel back the curtain with behind-the-scenes content and team member spotlights that give customers an inside look into your business.
Team Up!
In 2025, collaboration isn’t just reserved for big brands. There are plenty of ways to bring likeminded businesses together to create something unique and complement one another. Breweries and food trucks. Salons and boutiques.The opportunities are endless.
Once you’ve found a creative partnership that’s right for your business, explore how you can work together to create authentic, one-of-a-kind experience for customers. The bonus? The opportunity to design collaborative and collectible merchandise like t-shirts, posters and mugs to keep the buzz going long after your tie-up.
Two, after all, is better than one.
Empowered DIY Design
You don’t need design experience (or a full creative team) to leave a lasting impression. A growing number of graphic design tools let you tackle essential branding tasks quickly and effectively, like designing a logo or creating social media graphics.
But this trend isn’t just about digital assets. Physical DIY elements like stickers and stamps bring a hands-on feel to packaging and marketing materials, adding authenticity and personality.
Connection matters – and there are several ways to build it. I hope these trends
Erin Shea
Senior Director of North America Marketing at VistaPrint
Erin Shea is Senior Director, North America Marketing at VistaPrint, the marketing and design partner to small businesses.
