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• guess the original purpose of the antique object, led by an expert
• storytelling
• cowboy poetry
• have a First Nations group offer a blessing
• cooking demos
• Use signs to help your guests find their way to the event location (way finding) especially if you
are expecting out of town guests. Clearly indicate where to park.
• Site signs need to show the washroom locations.
• Show where tickets are being sold or where visitors can get more information about the event.
• Assign someone the task of picking up signs after the event for use next year.
Trail Logistics
• Most trails start within an hour’s drive of a major urban centre.
• Number of stops/operations on self-guided tours and trails is variable from as few as four to
almost 50.
• Consider different modes of transportation: bicycles, motorbikes, buses and motor homes.
Within 50 to 70 kilometers bikes can work; they are more environmentally friendly, create fewer
parking headaches and provide a unique experience for visitors.
• Give direction and guidance to visitors so they can find their way from all directions and
manage their expectations.
• Communicate with them about kids, pets and other concerns. Include a FAQ section or
checklist of reminders on your website and brochure.
• Feature a searchable directory or database and some form of map on the website.
• Post a printable pdf version of trail maps online. Most websites also include downloadable
versions of other marketing materials such as flyers, brochures, magazines and recipes.
Media Relations
• Press releases are energy rich and are free. Make a standard template with the words ‘press
release’ on it. Add contact information and the ‘facts’ about your event. Omit costs of
registration.
• The radio works well for event promotion, especially close to the time of the actual event.
• Foster a personal relationship with the media by buying advertising, offering complimentary
tickets to events and having the same person contact the media each time so they establish a
personal relationship.
• The best press response is generated when the media actually experience the event, tour or
trail. A pre-event media tour or taste works wonders.
• Track some statistics about your event (revenue, amount of media/coverage, number of people
who attended). Tell the good ones to the media soon after your event.