Looking for the Best Holiday Email Subject Line? You’re Asking the Wrong Question.
Everyone wants the magic formula.
What’s the best holiday email subject line?
Surely there’s one that guarantees higher open rates, more clicks, and more sales.
Here’s the catch…
There isn’t one.
The best subject line isn’t the cleverest, funniest, or even the most creative.
It’s the one your customers actually open.
And the only way to know that? TEST IT
Instead of searching for the “perfect” subject line, start by testing two different approaches with a small portion of your email list. Send the winning version to everyone else. You might be surprised by what resonates with your audience.
Need somewhere to start? Here are five subject line ideas to test.
1. The Holiday Collection Has Arrived
A simple announcement that lets customers know it’s time to start shopping.
2. Order Early for the Best Selection
Creates urgency without feeling pushy.
3. Celebrate the Season with Beautiful Holiday Cards
Focuses on the emotion behind sending holiday greetings rather than the product itself.
4. Discover This Year’s Holiday Favorites
People naturally want to know what’s popular. Let curiosity do some of the work.
5. Which Holiday Card Will They Remember?
A question invites customers to imagine themselves sending something memorable.
One Last Tip
Don’t stop after one email.
The same audience may respond differently throughout the season. Early shoppers may open emails about new arrivals, while last-minute buyers are more likely to respond to urgency or shipping reminders.
The goal isn’t to find the perfect subject line.
It’s to find the perfect subject line for your customers.
That’s a test worth running
