Why Your Cookie Pre-Sales Aren’t Selling (and How to Fix Them)
Cookie pre-sales should be easy money—but if yours aren’t selling, here’s what might be going wrong.
I learned this the hard way. I was so excited about a Halloween set I designed. Spending hours making samples, setting up my website, and getting everything just right.
And when I hit publish… Crickets.
Seriously—barely any orders. I was crushed.
But a few months later, I made some key changes for my Christmas pre-sale and had one of my best seasons ever. Here’s what I fixed—and what you can do to turn your next pre-sale around.
Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to Promote
If you’re only posting once or twice right before your orders open, it’s too late. Your customers need time to see the offer, think about it, and get excited. Just like weddings have “save the dates,” your pre-sales need that hype-building runway too.
Fix it:
Start teasing your pre-sale weeks in advance. Show behind-the-scenes peeks, share polls in stories, and warm up your audience early so they’re ready to buy when you open orders.
Mistake #2: Offering Too Many Options
Too many choices = decision fatigue. I used to put out 5 mini packs, 3 full sets, and endless color combos. Guess what? People got overwhelmed—and so did I when it came time to bake.
Fix it:
Keep it simple. Stick to 1-2 mini sets, 1-2 personalized cookies, and maybe one full set. Less options = more clarity (and way less stress for you).
Mistake #3: No Urgency or Scarcity
Without a deadline or limited quantity, people will wait… and wait… and maybe never order. I learned to cap my quantities and make that clear in my marketing.
Fix it:
Let your audience know exactly when orders close and how many are available. Phrases like “only 5 Santa sets left!” and “orders close Thursday at 8PM” spark action. Bonus tip? Offer early bird specials to your email list or VIP group.
Your cookie pre-sales can sell out—with the right plan. Start with these three shifts, and let your next pre-order launch be your best one yet.
Ready to Simplify & Sell with More Confidence?
Inside Next Level Cookie Club, you’ll get step-by-step trainings, done-for-you tools, and real-world support to help you build a cookie business that actually works for your life—not the other way around. From pre-sale templates to pricing guides, everything you need is waiting inside.
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