As event organizers, we’re constantly seeking new and innovative ways to promote our events and attract attendees. While tried-and-true tactics like social media advertising, email campaigns, and influencer partnerships are effective, sometimes you need to think outside the box to truly capture people’s attention.
Here are 5 unconventional event marketing ideas that you may not have tried yet, but could help your event stand out from the crowd:
Interactive Mobile Scavenger Hunt
Turn your event venue into an interactive playground with a mobile scavenger hunt. Develop a custom app that guides attendees through a series of challenges and tasks around the event space. This encourages exploration, drives engagement, and creates a memorable experience. Offer prizes for completing the hunt to incentivize participation.
Personalized Video Invitations
Rather than sending generic event invitations, create a personalized video message for your VIP guests. Use a tool like Loom or Vidyard to record a short, customized video invitation addressing the recipient by name and highlighting key details about the event. This added personal touch can help your invite stand out in crowded inboxes.
Experiential Product Sampling
Instead of just handing out free samples, transform your brand activations into immersive, experiential experiences. For example, if you’re promoting a new energy drink, set up a lounge area with massage chairs, mood lighting, and ambient music to create a relaxing oasis where attendees can sample the product. Or for a new skincare line, have a mini spa station with samples, tutorials, and pampering services. These types of “try before you buy” experiences can leave a lasting impression.
Local Influencer Partnerships
Look beyond the typical social media influencers and connect with local personalities, organizations, or community leaders to help promote your event. This could include partnering with a popular neighborhood restaurant, tapping into a local sports team’s fanbase, or collaborating with a respected community organization. Leveraging these hyper-targeted, local influencers can help you reach new, highly engaged audiences.
Augmented Reality Activations
Take your event branding and activations to the next level with augmented reality (AR) technology. Create custom AR filters, lenses, or interactive experiences that attendees can access via their smartphones. This could include AR photo ops with event-themed frames, virtual product try-ons, or gamified AR challenges. Not only do these types of activations enhance the attendee experience, but the social media content they generate can also drive additional awareness and buzz for your event.
The key to making these unconventional marketing ideas work is ensuring they align with your event’s brand, target audience, and overall objectives. Thoroughly test and iterate on these concepts to ensure a seamless, memorable experience for your attendees.
By thinking creatively and incorporating innovative, interactive elements into your event marketing, you’ll be able to cut through the noise, capture people’s attention, and leave a lasting impression. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new – the payoff could be event bigger than you imagine.
