You don’t need a big budget, a grand opening, or a viral moment to create excitement around your business. Sometimes, it’s the small, intentional moments that leave the biggest impact.
Mini in-store events are a low-cost, high-reward way to:
- Attract new foot traffic
- Strengthen customer relationships
- Generate buzz in the community
Whether it’s during a downtown event, a slower business season, or when launching a new product, hosting something special, even for just a few hours, can be a game changer.
Here are a few simple ideas to get you started:
Sip & Shop:
Offer light refreshments (coffee, lemonade, wine, depending on your audience) during extended shopping hours or in tandem with a downtown event. It gives people a reason to linger and browse longer.
In-Store Giveaways or Raffles:
Host a quick, no-pressure drawing for a gift card or small item. Encourage customers to enter by stopping in, following you on social media or signing up for your email list.
Live Demos or DIY Stations:
Show off how your products are made or let customers try something hands-on (like creating a mini craft, sampling a product or building a custom gift box). It’s interactive and memorable.
Partner with Another Business:
Team up with a neighboring business to cross-promote and share customer traffic. For example, offer a “stamp card” promo, co-host a pop-up, or swap small displays inside each other’s spaces.
Create a Photo Moment:
Set up a fun seasonal backdrop, mirror with a clever sign, or even a branded photo frame. Encourage guests to snap a pic and tag your business– it’s free marketing that lives beyond the event.
Promotion Tips: Share the event on your social media with a countdown or teaser postsCreate a Facebook event and invite followersUse a sidewalk sign to draw attention the day ofMention it to customers leading up to the eventSubmit it to Columbia City Connect’s Community Event Calendar
Remember: You don’t need a crowd of 100 for a mini event to be a success. If 5-10 people come in, connect with you and become repeat customers, you’ve already won!