What We Learned from This Year's Mother's Day Flyers (And How to Use Those Insights All Year Long)

Mother’s Day has a way of tugging at heartstrings—and it turns out, that emotional connection matters just as much in flyer design as it does in holiday dinners and flower deliveries.

Even though this year’s celebration has come and gone, the flyers we saw leading up to it revealed some smart strategies that deserve more than a one-day spotlight.

From the messaging that clicked to the designs that customers actually responded to, here are a few takeaways from this year’s campaigns—and how you can apply them to your future print marketing.

1. Sentiment Over Sale

The most effective flyers didn’t just advertise a Mother’s Day deal. They told a story—or at least started one.

Whether it was a simple “Thanks, Mom” at the top of the flyer or a heartfelt quote woven into the design, the brands that prioritized emotion over promotion stood out. These flyers reminded people of who they were shopping for, not just what they were buying.

Try this:
Instead of leading with the discount, lead with the moment. Think of how your products or services tie into family traditions, relationships, or appreciation. Then, design your flyer to reflect that sentiment visually and verbally.

2. Soft Color Palettes Had Strong Impact

While bold colors can be eye-catching, the campaigns that used soft, airy palettes—think blush, cream, sage, and lavender—felt more intentional and emotionally tuned-in.

These color schemes complemented the occasion without overwhelming the message. They also paired well with elegant typography and plenty of white space.

Design note:
This style doesn’t have to be reserved for Mother’s Day. If your brand wants to communicate warmth, care, or hospitality at any time of year, this approach can be a go-to.

3. Gift Guides Performed Surprisingly Well

An overlooked flyer trend? Mini gift guides printed right on the flyer.

These weren’t long lists—just a few curated options (“For the baker,” “For the plant lover,” etc.) paired with product photos and item numbers. They gave shoppers ideas at a glance and drove in-store traffic by encouraging quick, thoughtful decisions.

Use it elsewhere:
This layout works just as well for Father’s Day, teacher appreciation week, or any seasonal campaign. When people feel unsure about what to buy, a curated guide can be the nudge they need.

4. Interactive Elements Encouraged Action

Flyers with QR codes linking to additional content (think short videos or “letter to mom” templates) saw stronger engagement in several campaigns. These additions turned print into a more interactive experience, even if only briefly.

But, other successful ideas could be leaving space on your flyer for the recipient to write in a memory of mom or a favorite recipe or quote, and then turn it in for an in-store discount.

Future-friendly idea:
Don’t underestimate the power of low-tech interactivity. A fill-in-the-blank space, a detachable note, or a space to write a message can make your flyer feel more human—and more likely to be kept.

5. Appreciation Messaging Has Staying Power

At the heart of every great Mother’s Day flyer was a simple message: “We appreciate you.”

That kind of messaging doesn’t have an expiration date. You can carry that same energy into other campaigns that highlight community, family, or gratitude—whether you're recognizing teachers in the fall, caregivers in healthcare, or volunteers in a nonprofit drive.

Print is personal.

When your flyers reflect appreciation and intention, they don’t just inform—they connect.

Flyers That Go Further

Mother’s Day may be once a year, but the lessons we saw in this year’s campaigns can apply year-round.

Whether you’re planning your next holiday promotion, thinking ahead to Father’s Day, or simply looking for ways to make your print marketing feel more personal, these strategies offer a strong foundation.

Want help creating print materials that connect beyond the page? Contact us today—we’ll help you bring your next idea to life.

Showcase Your Brand with Unique Printing Techniques That Reflect Your Style

Your print materials don’t just share information—they express who you are.

Whether you’re designing brochures, business cards, or product packaging, the finishing choices you make can help your brand stand out in ways that are memorable, tactile, and entirely you. But not every technique fits every brand. What feels premium to one customer might feel over-the-top to another.

Here’s how to think about pairing your brand’s personality with unique printing techniques that leave a lasting impression.

The Bold and Energetic Brand

You’re not trying to blend in—you want to get noticed.

For brands with a high-energy identity—think entertainment, retail, hospitality, events—the goal is to attract attention fast. That doesn’t mean going over the top. It means choosing finishes that emphasize movement, light, or contrast.

Examples to consider:

• Spot UV that highlights just one element (like a logo or product image) against a matte background


• Neon inks for a punch of color that stands out in a stack of mail


• Custom die cuts that play with shape, like a guitar pick for a music brand or a ticket stub for a local theater

These are the flyers or business cards that people don’t toss aside—they stop, look, and often, keep.

The Refined, Minimalist Brand

Soft-spoken doesn't mean forgettable.

Luxury brands, wellness spaces, interior design firms, and premium services often avoid bright colors and loud graphics. But that doesn’t mean their materials lack impact. Quite the opposite. These brands focus on how things feel.

Let’s say your client opens a heavy envelope and pulls out a brochure printed on thick, soft-touch paper. They run their hand across the cover—then notice your logo, subtly raised with embossing. That quiet elegance sets the tone before they’ve even read a word.

In this case, white space, texture, and weight do the talking. Your finish is your handshake.

The Friendly, Community-Rooted Brand

Imagine this scenario: a neighborhood co-op grocery store wanted to connect with local families. Rather than going glossy or high-tech, they chose a simple kraft stock with an uncoated finish and hand-drawn illustrations.

No flash. No foil. Just a warm, approachable look that felt like something you’d stick on your fridge with a magnet.

Not every piece of print needs to shout. Sometimes, the most effective choice is the one that feels familiar and down to earth. Recycled paper stocks, muted tones, and classic typography help communicate authenticity and accessibility.

The Visually Creative Brand

You’re in the business of aesthetics—your print should reflect that.

This is where you can really play. Photographers, stylists, designers, and specialty product makers have the freedom to use their materials as a canvas. Consider combining techniques for a layered effect—like a matte background with spot gloss over a product photo, or foil-stamped details over soft-touch paper.

Even simple materials can shine when thoughtfully designed. A square brochure with accordion folds? Unexpected. A business card with a painted edge? Small detail, big personality.

When people expect you to have taste, your materials should show it—before they even flip the page.

The Tech-Savvy, Future-Forward Brand

Here’s a challenge: how do you make print feel digital?

If your brand is all about innovation—startups, tech solutions, automation—you want your materials to reflect precision and clarity. Think cool-toned color palettes, sleek typography, and strategic use of space.

To bring in the digital element, you could:

• Add a QR code that opens a demo or explainer video


• Use high-gloss finishes that mimic screen reflections


• Choose a minimal layout with crisp die cuts or geometric accents

You’re not just printing—you’re showing that even your offline experience is built with intention.

Your Brand, On Paper

No two brands are alike—and your print materials shouldn’t be, either.

From soft textures that invite touch to bold finishes that command attention, these printing techniques give you the power to speak without saying a word. When your materials reflect your identity, people don’t just see them. They feel them.

Want help picking the right finish, fold, or feature for your brand? Contact us—we’ll help you find your fit.

Connect Creatively: Using Flyers to Engage Your Audience

When Katie launched her small-batch bakery, she knew she needed to spread the word fast—but in a way that reflected her brand’s handmade, high-quality vibe. She tried posting on social media. Some local ads. Even a few community event booths. But it wasn’t until she sent out her first creatively designed flyer that things really started to stick.

And not just any flyer.

This one was folded like a six-panel recipe card, printed on a textured linen stock that felt warm and familiar to the touch. It opened with a headline that read, “A Little Sweetness Is Headed Your Way,” and featured real photos of her baked goods—with a tear-off coupon at the bottom that invited neighbors to “bring this in for a free cookie.”

The response? Far better than she expected.

Why Do Uniquely Printed Flyers Work?

Flyers might get overlooked if they look—and feel—just like everything else. But the moment they break from the norm, they get noticed. In Katie’s case, it was a combination of tactile appeal, smart folding, and a useful incentive that made people pause, smile, and act.

Let’s break down the elements that made her flyer memorable—and how you can apply the same creativity to your next print piece.

1. Use the Fold as Part of the Experience

Most flyers are flat. But creative folds add an element of discovery. People instinctively open them, flip them, and engage longer because the flyer itself becomes interactive.

Some fold styles to explore include accordion folds, gatefolds, and Z-folds, each offering a unique way to guide your reader through the message.

Think about your message—could it be delivered in parts or panels? Use the fold to help guide the reader through it.

2. Choose Finishes That Reflect Your Brand

The texture of a flyer can say just as much as the words on it.

In Katie’s case, a linen-textured paper evoked the feeling of old family recipes. But you could just as easily use:

• Soft-touch coatings for a sleek, high-end feel


• Glossy finishes to make colors pop and photos stand out


• Raised UV or foil stamping to highlight logos, calls to action, or product images

When someone picks up your flyer, what do you want it to feel like? Premium? Playful? Warm? Use finishes that support that tone.

3. Give People a Reason to Keep It

A great flyer doesn’t always get acted on immediately—but if it has lasting value, it’s more likely to be saved. In Katie’s case, the tear-off cookie coupon gave recipients a simple reason to hold onto it.

Other ideas:

• A coupon or promo code


• A helpful tip or checklist


• A recipe, calendar, or mini-guide


• A QR code linking to a video or exclusive offer

Functional design can turn your flyer into something your audience wants to revisit—not recycle.

Small Details, Big Results

Creativity in direct mail doesn’t have to mean flashy or over-the-top. Often, it’s about small touches that make your flyer feel thoughtful, intentional, and worth engaging with.

For Katie, it led to a surge in foot traffic, new loyal customers, and a growing brand reputation that matched the care she puts into every batch of cookies.

Whether you’re launching a new product, promoting an event, or simply looking to build stronger connections with your audience—flyers are still one of the most powerful tools in your marketing toolkit. Especially when you design them to stand out.

Need help designing a flyer that gets noticed and remembered? Contact us today to get started.

Connect Creatively: Using Flyers to Engage Your Audience

When Katie launched her small-batch bakery, she knew she needed to spread the word fast—but in a way that reflected her brand’s handmade, high-quality vibe. She tried posting on social media. Some local ads. Even a few community event booths. But it wasn’t until she sent out her first creatively designed flyer that things really started to stick.

And not just any flyer.

This one was folded like a six-panel recipe card, printed on a textured linen stock that felt warm and familiar to the touch. It opened with a headline that read, “A Little Sweetness Is Headed Your Way,” and featured real photos of her baked goods—with a tear-off coupon at the bottom that invited neighbors to “bring this in for a free cookie.”

The response? Far better than she expected.

Why Do Uniquely Printed Flyers Work?

Flyers might get overlooked if they look—and feel—just like everything else. But the moment they break from the norm, they get noticed. In Katie’s case, it was a combination of tactile appeal, smart folding, and a useful incentive that made people pause, smile, and act.

Let’s break down the elements that made her flyer memorable—and how you can apply the same creativity to your next print piece.

1. Use the Fold as Part of the Experience

Most flyers are flat. But creative folds add an element of discovery. People instinctively open them, flip them, and engage longer because the flyer itself becomes interactive.

Some fold styles to explore include accordion folds, gatefolds, and Z-folds, each offering a unique way to guide your reader through the message.

Think about your message—could it be delivered in parts or panels? Use the fold to help guide the reader through it.

2. Choose Finishes That Reflect Your Brand

The texture of a flyer can say just as much as the words on it.

In Katie’s case, a linen-textured paper evoked the feeling of old family recipes. But you could just as easily use:

• Soft-touch coatings for a sleek, high-end feel


• Glossy finishes to make colors pop and photos stand out


• Raised UV or foil stamping to highlight logos, calls to action, or product images

When someone picks up your flyer, what do you want it to feel like? Premium? Playful? Warm? Use finishes that support that tone.

3. Give People a Reason to Keep It

A great flyer doesn’t always get acted on immediately—but if it has lasting value, it’s more likely to be saved. In Katie’s case, the tear-off cookie coupon gave recipients a simple reason to hold onto it.

Other ideas:

• A coupon or promo code


• A helpful tip or checklist


• A recipe, calendar, or mini-guide


• A QR code linking to a video or exclusive offer

Functional design can turn your flyer into something your audience wants to revisit—not recycle.

Small Details, Big Results

Creativity in direct mail doesn’t have to mean flashy or over-the-top. Often, it’s about small touches that make your flyer feel thoughtful, intentional, and worth engaging with.

For Katie, it led to a surge in foot traffic, new loyal customers, and a growing brand reputation that matched the care she puts into every batch of cookies.

Whether you’re launching a new product, promoting an event, or simply looking to build stronger connections with your audience—flyers are still one of the most powerful tools in your marketing toolkit. Especially when you design them to stand out.

Need help designing a flyer that gets noticed and remembered? Contact us today to get started.

Innovative Flyer Designs: Leveraging Technology for Impactful Marketing

Flyers have long been a staple of marketing.

But in a fast-moving, tech-savvy world, today's most effective flyers are doing more than announcing events or listing promotions—they're connecting print with digital. If your flyer isn’t built to engage beyond the page, it might be missing its full potential.

Below are some common problems with traditional flyer design—and modern, technology-driven solutions that can take your marketing to the next level.

Problem: Your flyer ends the conversation instead of continuing it

Solution: Use QR codes to bridge print and digital

QR codes are no longer clunky or obscure. Now, they’re one of the most reliable ways to take a customer from physical print to digital action.

Tips for making QR codes work:

• Send people to a mobile-friendly, purpose-built landing page


• Use QR codes to share more detailed content like product videos or menus


• Add UTM codes so you can track how many scans you’re getting

QR usage is on the rise. In 2022, nearly 89 million Americans scanned a QR code—proof that audiences are ready to interact with print, if given the opportunity.

Problem: Your flyer gets attention, but not action

Solution: Add interactive elements with Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented Reality might sound complex, but it’s becoming easier to use—and more affordable—for small and mid-sized businesses.

Here’s how it works:

You design your flyer to include a visual trigger (like a logo or image). Using an AR platform like Zappar, Blippar, or 8th Wall, you link that image to digital content—like a video, animation, or interactive element. When someone scans your flyer using a phone camera or AR app, the content appears directly on their screen, layered over the flyer in real-time.

Examples include:

• A real estate flyer that plays a virtual home tour


• A product promo that shows a 360-degree view of the item


• An event flyer that triggers a video invitation or performance preview

While we don’t create AR content ourselves, we can work with you and your designer to make sure the flyer layout supports it. You (or a digital partner) handle the AR setup, and we'll ensure it’s printed to spec.

It’s a simple way to turn a flat flyer into a dynamic experience.

Problem: Your flyer is appealing—but generic

Solution: Use variable data printing for personalization

Generic print campaigns don’t cut through anymore. But flyers that are personalized? Those still get attention.

Variable data printing (VDP) allows you to customize each flyer with unique elements like the recipient’s name, local store address, or tailored product suggestions—all pulled from a database during the printing process.

This is especially effective for:

• Loyalty program campaigns


• Direct mail promotions


• Event invites personalized by region or role

According to McKinsey, 71% of consumers expect some level of personalization, and most are more likely to take action when content is tailored to them.

Problem: Your flyer is a one-time handout with no follow-up

Solution: Build tracking into your print

Flyers can give you data—if you set them up the right way.

Add measurable tools like:

• Campaign-specific landing pages with UTM tracking


• Unique promo codes for each version or distribution channel


• QR code scans tied to analytics platforms

These let you see how many people responded, what pages they visited, and what drove the most interest. That feedback improves your next round of print—and gives you data you can share with your team.

Problem: You’re thinking of your flyer as a standalone piece

Solution: Use it as a launch point

The smartest flyers today don’t just inform—they invite action. Whether it’s scanning a code, watching a video, filling out a form, or visiting a store, the flyer becomes the first step in a broader interaction.

With the right tech tools in place, you turn a simple handout into a multi-touch marketing asset.

Make Your Print Marketing Work Smarter

When you combine design with technology, flyers become more than paper. They become part of your customer’s experience—a tool that connects, educates, and drives measurable results.

Contact us today to start your next flyer project, and we’ll help you integrate the tools that bring your message to life.

Eco-Friendly Printing: Celebrate Earth Day with Sustainable Choices

Earth Day is a perfect opportunity for businesses to showcase their commitment to sustainability.

78% of consumers feel that sustainability is important, and 62% say they “always or often” seek products to purchase because they are sustainable. Print marketing continues to be a powerful and effective way to connect with customers, and today’s eco-friendly printing options make it easier than ever to do so responsibly.

Let’s explore how companies can celebrate Earth Day and beyond by making environmentally conscious printing choices.

Why Sustainable Printing is a Smart Choice

Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a business advantage.

Advances in printing technology now offer high-quality, eco-friendly materials without compromising appearance or durability.

• Supports Responsible Forestry – Using FSC-certified or recycled paper helps ensure forests are well-managed.


• Reduces Waste – On-demand and short-run printing help businesses avoid excess inventory.


• Enhances Brand Image – Consumers seek brands that prioritize sustainability in their practices.

According to McKinsey & Company, consumer demand for sustainable products is growing rapidly, making green business practices a wise investment.

Eco-Friendly Printing Materials & Techniques

Businesses can make a significant environmental impact by choosing sustainable printing materials. Here are key options that maintain quality while reducing waste.

Recycled & FSC-Certified Paper

Modern recycled paper is just as professional-looking as traditional stock, while FSC-certified paper ensures responsible sourcing from well-managed forests.

Soy & Vegetable-Based Inks

These inks are an alternative to petroleum-based inks while still providing bold, vibrant colors.

Water-Based Coatings

Water-based coatings offer a durable and recyclable finish for a polished look without plastic laminates.

Energy-Efficient Printing Processes

Advances in digital and offset printing have led to more sustainable production methods, reducing energy use and excess material waste.

How to Integrate Sustainable Printing Into Your Business

Many businesses worry that sustainable printing will be costly or complicated, but today’s options make it simple and affordable to go green without sacrificing quality.

Simplify Design for a Bigger Impact

Less can be more—minimalist designs with strategic color use can create striking materials while using fewer resources.

Encourage Recycling & Reuse

Adding a “Please Recycle” message or choosing recyclable materials helps extend the lifecycle of printed products.

Beyond Earth Day: A Commitment to Sustainable Printing

Earth Day is just the beginning—long-term sustainable printing efforts can bring lasting benefits to businesses and the environment. Some ways to make sustainability an ongoing focus include:

• Make Eco-Friendly Printing the Standard – Use sustainable paper, inks, and finishes for marketing materials.


• Reuse & Repurpose – Consider reusable signage, biodegradable packaging, or recyclable promotional materials.


• Educate Customers – Share eco-friendly printing choices with customers to build awareness and loyalty.

As the printing industry embraces sustainability, innovations make it easier than ever for businesses to make environmentally responsible choices.

The Future of Print is Green

Sustainability and print go hand in hand. With advancements in eco-friendly materials and printing techniques, businesses can create marketing materials that are both visually stunning and environmentally responsible.

Looking to print sustainably? Contact us today to explore eco-friendly printing solutions that align with your brand’s values!

Personalized Print Marketing with Print It!: A Proven Way to Connect with Customers

In today's market, your customers expect more than generic messages. They respond to content that speaks directly to them. Did you know that customers are 80% more likely to purchase from companies offering tailored experiences?

At Print It!, we see firsthand how personalized print marketing, from custom direct mail campaigns to targeted flyers, boosts engagement, drives brand loyalty, and delivers a significant return on investment. With modern advancements in digital printing technology, creating these personalized campaigns is more efficient and affordable than ever, ensuring you get the most value from your marketing budget.

If you want to make your printed materials more relevant and impactful, let Print It! show you how.

Why Personalization Works So Well in Print

1. Grab Customer Attention with Personalized Print

Personalization makes customers feel seen and valued. Studies confirm people are far more likely to engage with mail or printed materials that include their name, reference past interactions, or contain other relevant details. Unlike digital ads easily scrolled past, a high-quality, personalized print piece from Print It! captures attention and encourages action.

Example: Imagine a local service business sending postcards featuring promotions specific to a customer's neighborhood, printed beautifully by Print It!. This feels relevant and timely.
2. Increase Response Rates and Marketing ROI

Personalized print campaigns consistently outperform generic ones because they address the recipient’s specific needs and interests. The Data & Marketing Association notes that direct mail response rates can soar by 135% when personalization is used.

Example: Nonprofits we work with at Print It! can use targeted printing to tailor donation requests based on past giving history, significantly increasing responses and total donations.
3. Gain a Competitive Edge with Print Personalization

Exceptional service today means delighting customers, not just satisfying them. By integrating customized print materials—expertly produced by Print It!—into your strategy, you create tangible connections that stand out from the digital clutter.

Example: A restaurant could partner with Print It! to print and mail custom birthday coupons to loyal customers, making them feel special and encouraging repeat business.
How Print It! Helps You Personalize Your Print Marketing

Leverage Advanced Digital Printing (Including Variable Data)

Our advanced digital printing capabilities at Print It! allow for personalization on each piece without slowing down production. This means unique names, images, messages, or offers tailored to the individual recipient.

Personalized Postcards & Mailers: Address customers by name, feature location-specific offers, or highlight relevant services.
Custom Newsletters & Flyers: Include content variations based on customer segments or preferences.
Targeted Brochures & Catalogs: Showcase products or services related to a customer's past purchases or inquiries.
Segment Your Audience for Maximum Impact

Not all customers are the same. Print It! can help you think through segmenting your audience based on demographics, behavior, or purchase history to create highly relevant print campaigns.

Retail: Send mailers featuring product recommendations based on previous buys.
Service Businesses: Mail service reminders or targeted offers relevant to a client's past projects.
Events: Use our capabilities, like letterpress or specialty finishing, for personalized invitations that make an impact.
Combine Print with Digital for Stronger Campaigns

A multi-channel approach boosts engagement. Use your Print It! materials to drive digital interaction:

Use QR Codes: Direct customers from your printed piece to a personalized landing page on your website.
Follow Up Digitally: Reinforce your print message with coordinated email campaigns.
Clear Calls to Action: Encourage customers to take the next step – whether it’s calling you, visiting your website, or stopping by.
Get Started with Personalized Print Marketing at Print It!

If you've been considering how to make your marketing more personal and effective, now is the perfect time. Customized print marketing can transform your customer engagement strategy. With Print It!'s high-quality digital printing, smart audience strategies, and options for mailing services, your print materials can be incredibly dynamic and engaging.

Let’s create a personalized print campaign that gets results for your business.

Contact Print It! today for a free consultation! Call us at 864-882-3609 or visit us online at www.printitincolor.com to learn more.