Fun Emails To Raise Engagement
JANUARY 2025
By Alexis Woerdehoff
Let’s face it, at this point, mostly everyone's inboxes are another abandonment nudge, a one-size-fits-all discount, or another email talking about the same thing as the last one. With all that being said, it can be pretty easy for a subscriber to start feeling that email fatigue, which is when we begin to see engagement dip. But when engagement starts to dip, one of the best ways to cut through the clutter is to give subscribers something they didn’t see coming: a reason to enjoy opening their emails AKA the fun email.
We're talking horoscopes, trivia, scavenger hunts, and even niche holidays with a certain level of charm. These playful campaigns don’t only offer some entertainment but also help drive opens, clicks, and time spent on site. Here’s how these fun themes can deepen audience connection and drive performance where it counts.
National Trivia Day (January 4)
Trivia taps into your subscriber's curiosity and competitiveness, two things that make people click. You can keep it brand-specific or mix in some unexpected questions, just make sure it fits your overall tone. Sweeten the deal with a reward for correct answers to boost participation.
Here are some additional ideas:
Interactive landing page
One-click multiple-choice questions embedded in the email
Unlock a promo code only if you answer correctly
Drive clicks by revealing answers on your site
National Scavenger Hunt Day (May 24)
Yes, it’s real, and YES, it’s an email marketer’s dream. Turn your email into an interactive scavenger hunt by hiding clues across your email and/or website and challenging subscribers to find them. Reward participation with exclusive access, early drops, or surprise discounts.
Here are some additional ideas:
Find the hidden item and unlock a reward”
Tie clues to specific product pages or blog content
Create a shareable moment: “Finish the hunt and tag us for a bonus”
Drive clicks by revealing answers on your site
Horoscopes - What's Your Sign?
Zodiac content performs shockingly well across a variety of industries. It’s familiar, shareable, and oddly personal. Whether you tie it to product recommendations or use it as a regular feature, horoscopes can become a high-engagement hook that keeps engaged.
Here are some additional ideas:
Product recommendation based on the subscriber's sign
“Your week, according to the stars” campaigns
Interactive landing page
Horoscope + CTA pairings
Calendar Holidays
From National Bubble Wrap Day to National Napping Day, there’s a holiday for nearly every day of the year. Choose ones that align with your brand or subscriber interests, and run with it.
Here are some additional ideas:
“It’s National Coffee Day, here’s how we’re celebrating”
Use holiday themes to spotlight overlooked products.
Why It Works
Entertaining emails are not just a break from the merchandising sales grind, but they are also a tool to improve deliverability, nurture long-term loyalty, and learn more about your audience. Best of all? They give people a reason to look forward to your next send.
