#023 17 Marketing Tips for Creative Wedding Pros
This is a great episode because it covers some super easy to put in practice marketing ideas for your wedding business. And not only that, most of them come at no cost - except for your time!
These marketing ideas worked for our wedding business of 25 years. They helped us earn more money and work with clients that we love. And don’t miss the download and link at the bottom of the page.
Here’s a list of the 17 marketing tips presented in our latest podcast episode.
✅1. Determine Your Superpower - Identify what makes you unique in the market.
The first step in their marketing strategy is to identify your unique selling proposition—your superpower. “What makes you stand out?” Melissa asks. This is crucial for attracting clients. Use your website as a platform to articulate who you are, what you do, and why you do it better than anyone else. If your message sounds like everyone else’s, potential clients will simply move on. Showcase your uniqueness through compelling visuals and engaging copy.
✅2. Identify Your Ideal Client (ICA) - Know who you’re marketing to for effective communication.
Next on the list is understanding your Ideal Client Avatar (ICA). “It’s essential to know who you’re marketing to,” Keith advises. A scattershot approach will only dilute your message. By defining your ICA, you can craft content that speaks directly to their needs and desires. This clarity will help you resonate with your audience, allowing your superpower to shine through.
✅3. Niche Down - Focus on a specific market segment to attract the right clients.
Narrowing your focus can be a game-changer. Keith and Melissa have carved out a niche for couples seeking candid, moment-driven photography. By clearly defining who they serve—and who they don’t—they can attract the right clients. “Niche down, but don’t feel confined,” Melissa adds. While their wedding website showcases only wedding work, they remain open to other photography opportunities.
✅4. Set Up Google Business Profile (formerly GMB) - Enhance local search visibility and gather client reviews.
Creating a Google My Business (GMB) profile is vital for visibility. This free tool enables local clients to find you easily, especially important for wedding vendors. “The more reviews you gather, the better your rankings,” Melissa states. Alongside GMB, investing time in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is critical. Your website content should be informative and rich with keywords that potential clients might search for. This increases your chances of appearing in relevant search results.
✅5. Improve Your Website SEO - Optimize your site to rank higher on search engines.
Despite rumors of its demise, blogging remains a powerful marketing tool. Melissa encourages creatives to provide valuable content to potential clients. “Blogging positions you as an authority in your field,” he explains. Write thoughtfully on topics that address your clients' pain points. Collaborate with fellow wedding professionals for guest posts, creating backlinks that enhance your SEO.
✅6. Blogging - Use blog posts to establish authority and improve SEO.
Despite rumors of its demise, blogging remains a powerful marketing tool. Keith encourages creatives to provide valuable content to potential clients. “Blogging positions you as an authority in your field,” he explains. Write thoughtfully on topics that address your clients' pain points. Collaborate with fellow wedding professionals for guest posts, creating backlinks that enhance your SEO.
✅7. Improve iPhone Photography - Enhance the quality of your social media posts with better photography.
In the age of social media, high-quality visuals are paramount. Keith urges wedding professionals to enhance their iPhone photography skills. “Bad photos do a disservice to your hard work,” he warns. With just a few tips, you can elevate your social media presence and showcase your services effectively.
✅8. Network with Other Vendors - Build relationships and share content to expand your reach.
Networking is essential in the wedding industry. Attend local events, foster genuine relationships, and don’t be shy to collaborate. Create a preferred vendors list for your clients, and consider leaving positive reviews for fellow vendors. “These connections can lead to referrals and a stronger community,” Melissa notes.
✅9. Request Photos from Photographers - Get access to professional images for your marketing.
✅10. Networking Within the Industry - Attend events and foster relationships with other professionals.
✅11. Create a Preferred Vendors List - Share recommendations to enhance credibility and SEO.
✅12. Build an Email List - Offer lead magnets to grow your email subscribers.
Building an email list is another critical strategy. Offer a lead magnet on your website that provides value to potential clients, such as a guide to help with something related to the planning of their wedding. This not only helps you capture leads but keeps you in their minds for future events.
✅13. Ask for Testimonials and Reviews - Collect social proof to encourage potential clients.
Social proof is powerful. Keith emphasizes the importance of gathering testimonials and reviews from clients and fellow vendors. “These endorsements provide potential clients with the confidence to choose you,” he explains.
✅14. Create Marketing Pieces for Venues - Showcase your work at specific venues to attract clients.
Once you’ve built a portfolio, consider creating marketing pieces that highlight your work, especially at venues where you’ve had success. Simple magazine-style handouts can leave a lasting impression on potential clients.
✅15. Volunteer - Engage in community service to build goodwill and connections.
Giving back to the community is a rewarding endeavor. “Volunteer where you want to make an impact,” Keith suggests. This selfless act can lead to unexpected opportunities and connections.
✅16. Outsource Tasks - Delegate to free up time for strategic business activities.
As a business owner, your time is precious. Consider outsourcing tasks such as blogging or social media management. This allows you to focus on high-level strategies that drive growth.
✅17. Define Your Audacious Outcome - Encourage risk-taking and stepping out of comfort zones for growth.
Finally, as Keith and Melissa conclude their list, they circle back to the importance of setting audacious goals. “Try things you’ve never tried before,” Melissa encourages. “When you think big, amazing things start to happen.”
Conclusion
In the world of creative business, success is not just about talent; it’s about mindset, strategy, and community. Keith and Melissa’s 17 marketing tips provide valuable insights for anyone looking to thrive in the creative landscape. By embracing your unique superpower, understanding your audience, and implementing these strategies, you can cultivate a flourishing business. Remember, every great tree begins as a small seed—nurture your dreams, and watch them grow.
For more insights and guidance, follow Keith and Melissa as they continue to share their expertise. Together, they pull back the curtain and offer insight into success for your creative business journey.
Download the ICA + Niche Worksheet
Claim your Business on Google
How to Set up Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google my Business)
