How to get more bookings without paid advertising

As a Celebrant, getting your business out there for the world to see is key. That means each one of you, whether you realise it or not, is not only a Celebrant, but a marketeer!

 

Being someone who’s worked as a marketer for big companies and also launched 4 of my own businesses, I understand how hard some of the big financial decisions can be. Sometimes paying for advertising just isn’t in the budget.

 

But don’t worry! I’ve come up with a list of tips on how to get more business without paying for advertising.

 

Make your website a reflection of your work

 

Your first significant point of contact with potential clients is your website. This is your chance to show them the best representation of your work and what makes you stand out from the rest. Use high quality images of past ceremonies you’ve officiated on your site to make it both personal and visually appealing. If you have testimonials, showcase them front and centre! Give examples of special requests you’ve fulfilled or unconventional obstacles you’ve overcome. Just make sure your website is easy to navigate, simple in design, and visitors can contact you quickly and easily!

 

Register on Google Business

 

You know when you’re out and about, starving, so you decide to search for some cafes in your area on Google? Well you probably don’t realise it, but the results you’re seeing are all thanks to Google Business. Google Business allows companies of any size to register a profile that will appear on Google whenever anyone searches for businesses like theirs…for free! It only takes a couple minutes to register and within a week you’ll have your business searchable online to anyone looking for a Celebrant in their area. So…what are you waiting for? Register now!

 

Social media…your new best friend

 

If you don’t already have a Facebook page for your Celebrant business, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? This is absolutely essential, especially for small business owners and those whose businesses depend on word-of-mouth referrals. Also, there are tons of private Facebook groups you can join that are filled with prospective clients searching for tips on and referrals to Celebrants like you. Just make sure you follow the group rules and are respectful when advertising your offer.

 

The same goes for other social media sites such as Instagram and Pinterest. These are great spaces to make a visual impact on your audience by posting pics from your events, special offer posts, etc. And make it a point to engage with your audience who take the time to comment on your posts. Building a connection will give you an extra advantage when it comes to bookings.

 

Evaluate your pricing

 

If you’re still not able to get those bookings, it may be time to evaluate your current pricing. Although you know your product and services are worth the price, sometimes you may just need to bite the bullet until you can build up your portfolio and name in the industry. Lower your prices until you have a substantial amount of events officiated and a healthy group of clients who would vouch for your service.  You should also consider offering special promotions to really get your business out there, such as a freebie when someone reserves one of your packages. It may be a difficult investment but will pay off in the long-run when you see your calendar beginning to fill up!

 

There you go! Follow these tips and you’re sure to see your calendar fill up. This doesn’t mean you can’t look into paid advertising in the future, but make sure you fully take advantage of all the different ways you can grow your business free of charge!