Marketing your services as a celebrant

This month’s topic is about marketing ideas.  There are a range of ways in which you can let people know of your services, and this blog will cover some of these ideas.  However the current COVID-19 restrictions have drastically affected our work.  So what should you be doing in the current climate?  Celebrant and regular blogger Melanie Lawson from Oberon, NSW takes us through a few ideas...

 Strange times indeed! 

Responding to COVID-19 restrictions

Now is a great time to do some general maintenance and make sure your website, Facebook page and other social media profiles are up to date.  Consider adding information about how your services have changed in response to the coronavirus.  Have you changed your work practices?  Added new health and safety protocols?  Changed your business hours?   Make sure you keep up to date with government restrictions by following the official Australian Government website, your local state government information service and any advice from the Attorney General’s marriage law and celebrant section.  Post relevant information on your platforms.  Finally, consider providing positive messages or other information that may be useful to your clients such as information about postponing venue bookings or staying in touch online. 

Back to basics – marketing ideas

Firstly, have a plan.  Think about who you want to reach, what you want to say and how much time and money you have to put towards your marketing.  Write some goals and review them regularly. 

Traditionally, word of mouth has worked well, with personal recommendations generating ongoing work for many celebrants.  To get the best out of this, make sure you announce your name clearly at every ceremony and have business cards ready to hand out. 

Tip: The Celebrants Network shop has great name badges available for purchase.  https://www.celebrants.org.au/shop/other-professional-tools-for-celebrants/badges

A website is a valuable way to provide information about your services and fees, but more importantly a well-designed website will give people a feel for who you are and what your style is like.  There are many good website builders that are free to use.  Consider choosing a theme and images that reflect your personality and approach to life.  Be real and don’t feel that you need to copy or compete with others. 

Social media is a must for anyone in business.  The Celebrants Network has some fantastic resources you can use for Facebook and other social media platforms.  As a minimum, you should have a Facebook business page.   https://www.celebrants.org.au/home/celebrants/TCN-marketing-tools

Online directories are another way in which you can advertise.   Options include wedding publications, local service directories or council websites.  Attending wedding expos or other promotional events is a great way to connect in person but requires a big time commitment.  The Celebrants Network gives members access to an on-line directory which allows potential clients to search for you in your local area. 

There are many other ways you can advertise locally. Think about joining business or community groups in your area to build up your profile.  Many celebrants have made successful connections by volunteering to speak at local groups.  For example, you could give a talk about life ceremonies to your local Rotary club.  Contact other ceremony suppliers in your area such as venue hire and florists to develop working relationships and leave your business cards.  Advertise your services using magnetic stickers or window decals on your car. 

Finally, smile, be positive and be open to new opportunities!