Low-Season Wedding Marketing “To Do” List

Low season is starting for those of us in the wedding industry…which means it’s time to re-group and get ready for next season with this handy dandy Low-Season Wedding Marketing “To Do” List.

#1 – Are You Up-to-Date?

Look over all your business’ social media accounts, marketing materials, your website, your listings on The Knot and WeddingWire, etc. Is all of your information current? Do you need to update photos, prices, packaging details, contact info?

Check over everything with a fine tooth comb.

#2 – Check Your Year-End Statistics

What percentage of people who contacted you booked your services? What were your top lead sources?

Analyze all your numbers for the year, then make sure your website copy and online profiles reflect these numbers. In other words, if you get twice as much traffic from WeddingWire as you do from The Knot, consider downgrading your Knot profile and upgrading your WeddingWire profile.

Offer special incentives to your top lead sources or, alternatively, try a new strategy with your lowest-performing lead sources. Be ready with a strong, smart strategy before next Spring.

#3 – Work On Writing Projects

Between now and next March/April, you will have plenty of time to write that give-away ebook (“bride bribe”), put together a 3-part blog series on local venue tips, and so on.

When you think about the big writing projects you want to tackle, remember to write about what potential clients want to read about (not sales pitches but rather helpful, free tips, etc.) and to use basic SEO strategies for maximum effectiveness.

The more effort you put into these writing projects, the more they will be of value to future clients and the more effective they will be. Also, if you are behind on blogging about your real weddings, get caught up.

#4 – Take a Book More Brides Course

Listen, Steph and Jeff don’t pay me to plug their classes…I could put any tip I wanted to here. But as a graduate of several of their courses, I highly recommend you make the investment in yourself and your business.

The time and money I invested has paid off a jillion-fold…plus, their courses are tailored to busy wedding pros, organized, interactive, and great for networking. If you’re not a member of Book More Brides, join today for just $19.97/month.

#5 – Sharpen the Saw

In Steven Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, he talks about how successful people stay on top of their game by always learning, growing, and challenging themselves. It’s soooooo easy to fall into a rut.

DJs, when was the last time you used your effects (filter, echo, etc.) at a gig? Like never? Then practice that this low season.

Bakers, when was the last time you added a new frosting to your repertoire? Read Gary Vaynerchuk’s social media marketing book Jab, Jab, Right Hook. Take a photography class at the local community college.

Don’t be an old dog who refuses to learn new tricks.

#6 – Create Next Year’s Goals

After looking at last year’s numbers, carefully plan out your goals for next year. Write them down in great detail, print out a few copies of them, then tape those goals up where you can see them in your office, your kitchen, everywhere.

Know the goals inside and out. The more real these ideas are in your mind, the more you will find yourself drawn towards the direction of accomplishing them.

Hey, if it works for Michael Phelps, it’s worth trying, right? It’s free, and you’ve got nothing to lose!

What are your goals for next year? Let me know in the comments below.