Embrace the Unexpected in Your Business – Even if it’s Spooky!

October is the month of pumpkins, crisp air, and a little bit of magic. It’s also the perfect reminder that business doesn’t always have to follow the usual rules. Sometimes the most memorable ideas come from thinking a little differently.
This month, challenge yourself to do one thing “out of the box.” Maybe it’s a quirky promotion inspired by Halloween — a spooky social media post, a themed product bundle, or a playful contest. Maybe it’s trying a completely new way of connecting with customers, like a short, unexpected video introducing your team or a behind-the-scenes peek at how you work.

The point isn’t just to be different for the sake of it — it’s to spark curiosity, engagement, and maybe even a smile. Small touches of creativity make your business more memorable and human, and October is the perfect month to lean into that playful energy.
So, as the leaves turn and pumpkins appear on porches, ask yourself: what’s one small, unexpected twist I can bring to my business this month? You might be surprised by how much it lights up your customers’ day — and yours too.
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🎃 October Business Challenge: 5 Ways to Be Unexpected

1. Spooky Social Post – Share a Halloween-themed update or quirky photo of your workspace. Even a pumpkin on your desk counts!
2. Behind-the-Scenes Peek – Give customers a glimpse of how you make your products or deliver your services. People love seeing the magic behind the scenes.
3. Seasonal Offer – Create a limited-time “fall special” or a Halloween bundle for your products or services.
4. Mini Contest or Giveaway – Encourage engagement with a simple contest: best pumpkin photo, clever caption, or guessing game.
5. Try Something New – Test a new tool, marketing idea, or workflow. October’s energy is perfect for experimenting.

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Emily Mason, Senior Small Business Advisor

Emily Mason is an entrepreneur, business coach, and small business advocate. Originally from England, she earned a master’s in chemical engineering in Scotland before working at NatWest and becoming a certified business coach. She founded EFL Tutors, a successful online tutoring company, which she continues to run remotely. Now based in St. Thomas, Emily is excited to support local entrepreneurs through the Elgin-St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre.