Alternatives to attending Wedding fairs as a live wedding artist

Promote Your Live Wedding Painting Business in the UK

Its only June, but I am having a think about my low season coming up in the autumn where I might want to book in some wedding fairs.

You can find local wedding fairs being hosted in many hotels. Rates differ however between providers.

The quotes received for wedding fairs in UK today can be a lot. Often too much for small business owners.

In the competitive wedding industry, standing out as a live wedding painter without relying on traditional marketing or wedding fairs can be challenging but incredibly rewarding.

Here are some cost-effective ways to promote your live wedding painting business in the UK.

1. Harness the Power of Social Media

Social media is a powerhouse for reaching potential clients. As a creative business, a visual platform is a must. Take advantage of platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook to showcase your work.

• Instagram Stories and Reels: Share behind-the-scenes clips of your painting process, time-lapse videos of your live wedding paintings, and testimonials from happy couples. Use relevant hashtags like #UKWeddings, #LiveWeddingPainter, and #WeddingArtUK to increase your visibility.
• Pinterest Boards: Create visually appealing boards that display different wedding themes and your artistic interpretation of them. This platform is popular among brides-to-be searching for inspiration.
• Facebook Groups: Join and actively participate in wedding planning groups. Offer advice, share your experiences, and subtly promote your services.

2. Collaborate with Other Vendors

Partnering with other wedding vendors can mutually benefit both parties.

• Photographers and Videographers: Offer to create live paintings at their promotional shoots in exchange for professional photos and videos of your artwork.
• Florists and Decorators: Collaborate on styled shoots. These photos can be used by all parties for promotion, giving you access to each other’s audiences.
• Wedding Planners: Build relationships with wedding planners who can recommend your services to their clients. Sometimes wedding planners are more your client than brides.

3. Get out the studio

Organise painting events in your community to showcase your talents.

• Live plein air Painting Sessions: Set up your easel in local parks, markets, or other public spaces and create live paintings. Ensure you have business cards and brochures to hand out to interested passers-by.
• Open Studio Days: Invite the public to your studio. This not only gives people a taste of your art but also demonstrates your professionalism and preparation. Perhaps you can host painting classes?

4. Create Engaging Content

Content marketing is a fantastic way to establish your expertise and attract potential clients.

• Blogging: Start a blog on your website where you share tips on choosing wedding art, the process of live wedding painting, and stories from past weddings you’ve painted at.
• Videos: start a YouTube channel. Create and upload videos to YouTube showcasing your painting process, tutorials on wedding art selection, and interviews with past clients.
• Podcasts: send out an email pitch to wedding podcast hosts asking to come chat and share your journey as a wedding artist. I host a podcast called The Wedding Artist Diaries and would love to chat to creatives.

5. Ask for Client Testimonials and Referrals

Happy clients are your best promoters.

• Google Testimonials: Ask past clients to provide written reviews about your artwork. Share these on your website and social media channels.
• Referral Program: Offer incentives for clients who refer your services to others. This could be a discount on their booking or a small gift.

6. Engage in Community and Charity Events

Getting involved in your community can raise your profile and create positive associations with your brand.

• Charity Events: Offer to create live paintings at charity events for free. These events often attract large crowds and media coverage.
• Community Festivals: Participate in local festivals and fairs. This can help you reach a wide audience who may be planning weddings or know someone who is.

7. Networking and Word of Mouth

Sometimes, the best marketing is done face-to-face.

• Networking Events: Attend local business networking events. Even though these aren’t wedding-specific, you never know where you might meet someone who needs your services.
• Friends and Family: Encourage your friends and family to spread the word about your business. Personal recommendations can be incredibly powerful.

8. Sign up to Online Wedding Directories

List your business on popular wedding directories.

• Free Listings: Many wedding directories offer free listings for vendors. Ensure your profile is complete and up-to-date.
• Reviews: Encourage your clients to leave reviews on these directories. Positive reviews can greatly influence potential clients.

Conclusion

Promoting your live wedding painting business in the UK without paying for marketing or attending wedding fairs is entirely possible with a bit of creativity and effort. By leveraging social media, collaborating with other vendors, creating engaging content, and getting involved in your community, you can reach a wider audience and grow your business organically. Remember, the key is consistency and building genuine relationships with both clients and other professionals in the industry.