The Ultimate ‘Set and Forget’ Marketing Plan for Local Event Planning & Decor Specialists in NZ

Planning events and creating stunning decor in New Zealand is all about turning visions into memorable experiences. But staying booked without the constant marketing hustle can be a challenge. This guide offers 10 practical, easy-to-implement strategies tailored for Kiwi event planners and decor specialists to attract a steady stream of local clients effortlessly.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. List on Popular NZ Event Directories

Start by listing your services on trusted local platforms like Neighbourly, TradeMe Services, and specialised event vendor directories. These sites are where many Kiwi organisers begin their search for event planning and decor experts.

A Wellington event planner, for example, saw a spike in enquiries after setting up a detailed Neighbourly profile with pictures of her past work and client testimonials.

Ensure your listing is eye-catching, up-to-date, and includes clear contact details to convert browsers into bookings.

2. Engage with Local Facebook Groups

Join community groups like ‘Auckland Event Planning’ or ‘Christchurch Wedding Vendors’. These groups often have members seeking recommendations for reliable event planners and decorators.

Offer helpful advice, share event trends, or post behind-the-scenes decor setups. This builds your reputation as a trusted local expert without hard selling.

One Christchurch decorator increased bookings simply by being an active, friendly presence in local groups.

3. Use Yada to Connect Locally

Yada’s growing Kiwi platform links clients and specialists directly with no lead or success fees. You can respond to local event planning or decor jobs quickly and keep full payment.

Imagine a last-minute birthday party decor request popping up in Tauranga, and you responding fast from your phone to book the job.

Yada’s internal chat promotes smooth communication, helping you build client trust from the start.

4. Showcase Client Testimonials and Past Events

Kiwis trust peer recommendations more than ads. After every event, ask happy clients for testimonials you can show off on your website or social media.

A Hamilton event planner shared how featuring glowing reviews and photos of beautifully decorated spaces boosted her bookings significantly.

Authentic feedback helps new clients feel confident in choosing your services.

5. Share Seasonal Trends and DIY Tips

Sharing tips on event trends or quick DIY decor ideas sparks engagement and builds your brand. For instance, post about ‘Top 5 Summer Wedding Decor Trends in NZ’ or ‘Simple Table Centerpiece Ideas’.

It’s a great way to keep followers interested and remind them you’re the expert for their upcoming occasion.

An Auckland event decorator grew her social media following and client enquiries with regular, value-packed posts.

6. Partner with Complementary Businesses

Form alliances with local caterers, photographers, and venues to exchange referrals and co-host styled shoots that showcase all your talents.

A Christchurch planner’s collaboration with wedding venues created a steady referral network, ensuring mutually beneficial business growth.

These partnerships build community trust and expand your reach beyond your immediate circle.

7. Offer Free Consultations or Event Mock-ups

Offering a free consultation or virtual event mock-up eases client nerves and helps them visualise their big day.

A Nelson event decorator’s free consultation offer helped convert many indecisive clients into booked jobs.

It’s a simple way to build rapport and show your professionalism.

8. Launch a Referral Program for Clients

Incentivise past clients to refer friends and family by offering discounts or small freebies like free decor upgrades.

A Tauranga event planner’s referral program increased her bookings by 40% within months.

Referrals create loyal clients who actively help your business grow.

9. Attend and Sponsor Local Events

Take part in fairs, wedding expos, and community events to showcase your work alongside other local vendors.

Sponsoring event decor or prizes can boost your brand recognition and attract new clients.

An Auckland decorator’s presence at a major bridal expo led to multiple new business enquiries.

10. Build a Mobile-Friendly Website

Create a sleek, fast-loading website that highlights your portfolio, services, testimonials, and contact info.

With most Kiwis browsing on mobiles, a responsive design ensures easy access and better client engagement.

One Hamilton decorator credited her website’s direct booking option for increasing steady enquiries outside her immediate area.