Going Back to Basics: How I’m Using Mail Marketing to Stay Ahead of the Competition
We live in a world where everything is digital.
Emails, social media posts, text messages — we’re constantly communicating online. But sometimes, when everyone else is fighting for attention in the digital space…
the smartest move you can make is to go offline.
This week, I’m doing something I haven’t done in a while — and it’s already making a huge difference.
I’m spending part of my day searching Google Maps for new or unfamiliar childcares, preschools, and learning centres in our service areas. I’m identifying:
Centres that have opened recently (new listings are usually marked “Opened 2024” or “Opened 2025”)
Centres that I haven’t reached out to in over a year
Centres that might not have responded to my emails in the past
Once I’ve created a shortlist, I’m doing something simple but powerful:
I’m mailing them a brochure and business card.
Make it stand out
No fancy email campaign, no complicated funnel — just a tangible reminder that we’re here, we care, and we’d love to serve their community.
Why Mail Marketing Works
Email and social media are fantastic tools — and we’ll always use them.
But the reality is:
Directors’ inboxes are flooded daily with inquiries, promotions, and newsletters.
Many emails go unopened or land in junk folders.
Childcare directors are busy! They often don’t have time to scroll through long messages or marketing links.
Mail, on the other hand, stands out.
It’s physical, personal, and memorable.
When a childcare centre receives a beautifully printed brochure with our logo, photos, and a real business card — it tells a story. It shows effort. It shows care. And often, it ends up pinned on their corkboard or tucked into their resource binder — meaning your brand stays visible long after an email would have been deleted.
Step-by-Step Outreach Strategy
Here’s exactly what I’m doing — and you can, too!
1️⃣ Search your area on Google Maps.
Type in “childcare near me,” “preschool,” or “daycare.” Zoom in on your territory and scroll around — you’ll be surprised how many new locations pop up that you might have missed.
2️⃣ Make a quick list.
Open a simple spreadsheet or notebook. Write down the name, address, and contact person (if listed) for each centre you want to reach out to.
3️⃣ Send them something tangible.
Pop a few envelopes in the mail with your printed Busy Minds Ed.® or Little Yogis Academy® brochure and a business card. If you want to stand out even more, add a handwritten sticky note that says something like:
“We’d love to bring a free trial yoga or movement class to your centre! – Michelle”
4️⃣ Follow up a week later.
Once your mail has likely arrived, send a short follow-up email or make a friendly phone call:
“Hi [Director’s Name], I recently sent you some information in the mail about our enrichment programs. I’d love to explore offering a trial class or adding you to our schedule this season!”
This 1–2 punch (mail + follow-up) is incredibly effective.
The Power of Mail Marketing
Direct mail marketing might feel “old school,” but it’s still one of the most trust-building and memorable ways to connect with your community. Here’s why it works:
💌 It feels personal. A letter or brochure feels intentional and thoughtful — not automated.
👀 It gets noticed. There’s less competition in the mailbox than in the inbox!
🧠 It creates mental “stickiness.” People remember brands they can touch and see in real life.
🏠 It builds local presence. Directors see your return address and instantly connect you to their community.
If you want to create a long-lasting impression, don’t underestimate the power of something printed, beautiful, and real.
Your Turn!
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story can make all the difference.
Ready to give it a try?
You can find all of our printable marketing assets — including editable brochures, postcards, and business card templates — right here:
Print a few, grab some envelopes, and start connecting!
I truly believe that success comes from consistency, creativity, and care — and sometimes that means going back to basics.
Let’s stand out in the most human way possible.
We’re not just sending mail.
We’re sending a message:
We’re here, we care, and we’re ready to make a difference. 💛