The upcoming Humor & Harmony event is a huge opportunity for downtown businesses to attract new customers and boost sales. Featuring renowned comedians, musicians, and celebrities, this event is set to draw large crowds, providing a unique chance for your business to shine.
The Downtown Development Authority is committed to helping promote all our downtown businesses and highlight any special events or opportunities you are holding during Humor & Harmony weekend. If your business is holding a special event, please email the details to ldavidson@downtownshreveport.com.
Do you need assistance with window displays or signage? We can help with that! Email ldavidson@downtownshreveport.com to learn more.
To help you make the most of this event, we’ve compiled seven easy and affordable tips to drive traffic to your business and engage with event attendees. Here’s how you can leverage Humor & Harmony to drive pedestrian traffic and create a memorable experience for visitors.
1. Create Event-Specific Promotions
Why It Works: Event-specific promotions create excitement and a sense of exclusivity.
How to Do It:
- Themed Products: Introduce products or menu items themed around the event to capture interest.
- Special Discounts: Offer discounts or deals specifically for Humor & Harmony attendees. For example, “Show your event ticket for 10% off your purchase.”
- Limited-Time Offers: Create time-sensitive offers that encourage event-goers to visit your business before or after the event.
2. Utilize Social Media
Why It Works: Social media is a powerful tool for reaching a large audience quickly and affordably.
How to Do It:
- Event Hashtags: Use the event’s official hashtags to join the conversation and increase your visibility.
- Engaging Content: Post engaging content such as behind-the-scenes looks at your preparation, event-themed posts, or customer testimonials.
- Interactive Elements: Set up a photo booth or another interactive element to create a fun and unique experience for visitors. Ensure your logo or business hashtag is visible.
- Event Pages: Create a social media event page to highlight your special event.
- Post Often: Highlight your business by posting frequently on all your social media platforms. Remember, in today’s time, video is king. Even a short reel or story can significantly boost your promotion.
3. Collaborate with Other Local Businesses
Why It Works: Collaboration can amplify your reach and attract more visitors to the area.
How to Do It:
- Joint Promotions: Partner with neighboring businesses to create bundled offers. For example, “Visit these three businesses for a special discount at each.”
- Cross-Promotion: Share each other’s promotions on social media to reach a broader audience.
4. Leverage Email Marketing
Why It Works: Email marketing is a direct and personal way to reach your customers.
How to Do It:
- Event Newsletters: Send out newsletters with information about the event and your special offers.
- Exclusive Deals: Offer exclusive deals to your email subscribers to make them feel valued and encourage them to visit.
- Reminder Emails: Send reminder emails as the event approaches to keep your business top-of-mind.
5. Enhance Your Curb Appeal
Why It Works: Attractive storefronts can draw in passersby and create a festive atmosphere.
How to Do It:
- Decorations: Decorate your storefront with event-themed decor to catch the eye of event-goers.
- Signage: Use clear, attractive signage to advertise your event-specific promotions and welcome attendees.
- Interactive Elements: Set up a small booth or table outside your business with samples, information, or interactive activities.
6. Engage with Attendees During the Event
Why It Works: Direct engagement can create a memorable experience and encourage repeat visits.
How to Do It:
- Friendly Staff: Ensure your staff is welcoming and knowledgeable about the event and your promotions.
- Feedback Collection: Collect feedback from event-goers to understand what they liked and how you can improve.
7. Utilize Online Advertising
Why It Works: Targeted online ads can reach event-goers who are already planning to attend.
How to Do It:
- Geo-Targeted Ads: Use geo-targeted ads on platforms like Google and Facebook to reach people in the event area.
- Event-Specific Campaigns: Create ad campaigns specifically promoting your business during the event.
- Affordable Options: Utilize affordable ad formats like boosted social media posts to increase your reach without breaking the bank.
