There are countless strategies one can use to entice those reads, clicks and conversions we’re all after. But why choose just one?

Browsing my inbox as Valentine’s Day approaches, I’m seeing some great mixed-approach emails with content and design that work together beautifully. Here are a few of my favorites that feature a mix of holiday spin, catchy headlines and content-driven marketing.

Sweepstakes

Don’t want to give up that 10% with a coupon code that misses the mark? Consider sweepstakes. They’re fantastic for building hype, boosting email acquisition and can be powerful partnership opportunities.

Here’s how Oka-B and The RealReal put this strategy to use. Note how Oka-B also draws some cross-channel engagement with their use of Instagram.

Gift Guides

You love them in November and December…why not in February? Gift guides, which I also highlighted in a previous post, can reduce the friction (and indecision) that might be paralyzing some of your shoppers over this special holiday. Yes gentleman, I’m looking at you.

LovelySkin solves the problem here.

Cross-Channel Marketing

Social proof makes the difference between a cart abandoned and a purchase completed. Amazon has clearly proven that. For Valentine’s Day, Ashley Stewart tries to drive some informal buzz by pushing their holiday hashtag, “#xoxoASHLEY”.

As a second cross-channel method we love, check out how Kohl’s uses their marketing email as an opportunity to showcase their “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” offering.

What sweet Valentine's ideas have you seen in your inbox?