In 2020, we began our journey as mobile bartending business owners. My best friend and I landed on an old horse trailer to begin the process of remodeling. With all the work we had to do, it would be useless if we had no events booked and no clients to serve. The anxiety began to creep in. What is our approach going to be for marketing this mobile bar and bartending business?
Marketing is one of the toughest aspects for any business and it’s no different for mobile bars. We see plenty of owners looking for lifelines in the Membership and in the Facebook Group to start to drive cash into the biz. Let’s break down in very simple terms your choices for marketing and also the mindset you need to take with you as a small business owner.
Mobile Bartending Business Marketing Strategies
When it comes to marketing your mobile bartending business, there are numerous avenues you can explore. Let’s explore some effective strategies:
- Social Media Presence: Building a strong presence on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok can help you reach a wider audience. However, it’s essential to focus on creating valuable and entertaining content rather than just promotional posts. This is a common mistake. Quality content, using the social media apps features and testing new posts will help you grow your mobile bar.
- Expos & Networking Events: Attending wedding expos and other networking events can connect you with potential clients who are actively seeking mobile bartending services. Make sure to have a plan in place to collect contact information from interested leads. What are you giving away in exchange for their contact details? What are you doing after you get the contact details?
- Directories: Listing your business on popular directories such as The Knot, Thumbtack, Mobile Bar Hub & Yelp can increase your visibility online. Ensure that your listings are optimized with clear selling points, high-quality images, and social proof. What drives me crazy is seeing mobile bars put limited effort into their profile on directories. What would your customers like to see? Answer those questions in your directory profile for your mobile bar.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimizing your website and other online profiles for search engines can help your business appear higher in search results when potential clients are looking for mobile bartending services in your area. This can get confusing but it’s very straight forward. We cover more in the Mobile Bar Hub Member Portal.
- Social Media Ads: Running targeted ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google can help you reach your ideal audience and generate leads. Make sure to have a system in place to capture and follow up with leads effectively. This is the main avenue that we built our mobile bar business on. Once you set up an effective ad, you’ll have a great stream of leads coming in locally.
- Facebook Groups: Joining and participating in wedding-focused Facebook groups can help you engage with potential clients and promote your services. Town community forums are also a good way to get your name buzzing around town. Consider starting your own group to foster discussions and build a community around your business.
- Google Ads: Investing in Google Ads can ensure that your business appears at the top of search results for relevant keywords, increasing your visibility to potential clients.
- Networking: Building relationships with wedding venues, breweries, and other event organizers can lead to valuable referrals and partnerships for your mobile bartending business.
- Google My Business: Setting up a Google My Business profile is essential for local businesses as it improves your visibility in Google search and maps. This is a no brainer and should be one of the first things you do.
A big part of our traffic came from Facebook ads, communities on Facebook & posting on social)
Key Factors for Success
You’re a small business with either limited time or limited cash for expenses. When we got our mobile bar business launched, this is one thing I understood quickly from my other businesses. Trying to be a hero, or a “big boss,” is an ignorant approach to marketing. Being mediocre at 4 social media platforms, running ads on 3 channels, writing blogs, running SEO campaigns is enough work for a team of 10. By the way, don’t miss out on our free resources and downloads.
- Skill Development: Building skills in areas like social media marketing, sales, and customer service is essential for success. Adopt a learning mindset and be willing to experiment and improve over time.
- Simplicity: Focus on a few key marketing channels and platforms rather than spreading yourself too thin. Concentrate on mastering one platform before expanding to others.
- Systems and Processes: Have systems in place to effectively handle leads and inquiries that come through your marketing efforts. Consistent follow-up and communication are key to converting leads into clients.
- Branding: Invest in building a strong brand identity for your business, including professional imagery, testimonials, and social proof. A well-established brand can create a sense of trust and urgency among potential clients.
Starting and growing a mobile bartending business requires a strategic approach to marketing and client acquisition. By leveraging various marketing channels, focusing on skill development, and building a strong brand, you can attract clients and build a successful business. Remember to continuously evaluate and refine your strategies to stay ahead in a competitive market.
If you’re looking for comprehensive guidance on marketing and sales strategies for your mobile bartending business, consider checking out our Membership with deep dives into sales and marketing. With a wealth of resources and expert advice, you’ll be equipped to take your business to the next level.
