The Ultimate ‘Set and Forget’ Marketing Plan for Local 🎉 Events & Entertainment Specialists in NZ
In New Zealand’s vibrant events and entertainment scene, standing out is key to securing bookings and growing your business. However, continuous marketing can be exhausting. This guide shares 10 practical, easy-to-manage marketing strategies specifically for Kiwi events and entertainment professionals to attract reliable local clients without burning out.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Get Listed on NZ Event Directories
Start by listing your entertainment services on trusted directories like Neighbourly, TradeMe Services, and specialised event vendor sites. These are where many local event organisers seek recommendations.
For example, a magician in Wellington saw significant bookings increase after creating a detailed profile with videos and testimonials on Neighbourly.
Ensure your listing is vibrant, up-to-date, and includes clear contact info to convert interest into bookings.
2. Join Local Facebook Groups
Engage with community groups such as ‘Auckland Party Planners’ or ‘Christchurch Events’ where people regularly ask for performer suggestions.
Share helpful advice, funny clips, or insights rather than heavy promos to build goodwill and trust.
A Christchurch clown found that active participation in these groups led to regular party bookings.
3. Use Yada to Capture Local Jobs
Yada connects specialists to clients in New Zealand with no lead or success fees. Quickly respond to local event requests from your phone and secure gigs effortlessly.
Imagine a last-minute booking for a birthday party in Queenstown; your swift reply on Yada’s platform could land you the job.
Its private chat makes communication easy, helping build client relationships seamlessly.
4. Showcase Real Client Testimonials
New Zealanders trust word-of-mouth hugely. Always ask satisfied clients for reviews and share these glowing testimonials on your website and social media.
An Auckland musician highlights how testimonials helped boost her profile and secure premium bookings.
Authentic client feedback calms new client nerves and persuades bookings.
5. Share Entertaining Content Regularly
Post clips from your performances, behind-the-scenes snippets, or light-hearted content on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.
This keeps fans engaged and keeps you top-of-mind when event organisers need talent.
A Nelson juggler credits consistent social content with steady client enquiries.
6. Partner with Event Venues and Planners
Build relationships with venues and event coordinators to become their preferred entertainer.
A Tauranga DJ grew her bookings significantly by partnering closely with wedding venues and planners.
These partnerships quietly send a steady stream of referrals your way.
7. Offer Free Samples or Trial Gigs
Offering free demos or trial performances helps hesitant clients experience your talent before booking fully.
A Hamilton magician’s trial gigs turned many first-time clients into loyal repeat customers.
Think of this as your live audition that builds trust and confidence.
8. Create a Client Referral Program
Encourage happy clients to refer others by rewarding them with discounts, freebies, or perks.
One Wellington entertainer doubled bookings after launching a simple $20 referral incentive.
Referral programs keep your marketing engine running without constant effort.
9. Attend Local Festivals and Markets
Engage in music festivals, markets, and community events to showcase your skills and meet potential clients directly.
A Christchurch busker gained multiple bookings at local fairs by performing and networking.
In-person presence builds trust and spreads word-of-mouth organically.
10. Build a Mobile-Friendly Website
A professional website showcasing your talent, testimonials, portfolio, and easy contact forms helps boost bookings.
With most Kiwis browsing on mobile devices, mobile optimisation ensures no client gets left behind.
One Auckland musician credits her easy-to-use website for attracting clients beyond her local suburb.