Industry: Event Planning and Management
The SEO Design Chicago team developed a comprehensive digital marketing strategy for a special event planning company looking to increase bookings, improve online visibility, and establish itself as the premier choice for high-end events in its region.
315%
increase in organic search traffic
228%
increase in event inquiries
Â
187%
increase in website-generated leads
Â
Challenge:
A boutique special event planning company struggled to stand out in a crowded market dominated by both large corporate event planners and DIY alternatives.
- They needed to showcase their unique creativity
- Demonstrate their ability to handle diverse event types
- Attract high-value clients
- Build a strong brand reputation in a highly competitive and visually-driven industry.
Inspirational Event Gallery
- Developed a visually stunning, searchable event gallery
- Showcased the company’s best work
- Optimized for both search engines and user experience
- Had detailed event descriptions and high-quality images.
Interactive Event Planning Guide
- Created an interactive online guide walking potential clients through the event planning process
- Highlighted the company’s expertise and attention to detail at each stage
Video Storytelling
- We produced a series of cinematic event highlight videos and behind-the-scenes content
- Showcased the company’s ability to bring client visions to life. These were used across the website, YouTube, and social media platforms.
Local SEO and Vendor Network Optimization
- Optimized the company’s Google My Business listing
- Created a network of backlinks with local vendors (e.g., venues, caterers, florists)
- Improved local search visibility
Targeted PPC and Social Media Advertising
- Created highly targeted Google Ads, Instagram, and Facebook ad campaigns
- Focused on specific event types and demographics, with separate strategies for peak and off-peak seasons.
Social Media Content Strategy
- Developed an engaging social media strategy across Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook
- Shared event photos, planning tips, and trend forecasts
- Inspire potential clients and showcase expertise.
Virtual Consultation Platform
- Integrated a user-friendly virtual consultation platform on the website, allowing potential clients to have initial discussions and share their event visions remotely.
Email Marketing Automation
- Implemented segmented email campaigns for different event types and planning stages
- Nurturing leads with relevant content
- Showcased past events to inspire ideas
Influencer Collaboration Program
- Developed partnerships with local lifestyle influencers and wedding bloggers
- Expanded reach and credibility within target markets.
Customer Review and Testimonial Campaign
- Implemented a strategy to gather and showcase detailed client testimonialsÂ
- Encouraged reviews on platforms like WeddingWire, The Knot, and Google
Seasonal Trend Reports and Lookbooks
- We created digital seasonal trend reports and lookbooks
- Positioned the company as a trendsetter and go-to resource for event inspiration.
Results:
- Increased event inquiries from an average of 18 to 59 per month
- Improved website traffic from 4,000 to 16,600 monthly visitors
- Grew social media following from 5,500 to 28,900 across all platforms
- Increased the average rating on wedding platforms from 4.5 to 4.9 stars, with a 156% increase in total reviews
- Achieved first page rankings for 80% of targeted local and event-specific keywords
- Generated 87 high-quality leads through the virtual consultation platform in the first six months
- Improved website conversion rate from 2.3% to 4.2% for consultation requests
- Reduced cost per lead acquisition by 39% through optimized PPC and social media advertising campaigns
- Increased email open rates from 22% to 38% and click-through rates from 2.5% to 5.3% with segmented campaigns
- Boosted client referral rate from 30% to 52% through improved satisfaction and strategic follow-ups
- Achieved a 95% satisfaction rate for the virtual consultation platform
- Increased average event budget by 42% through effective marketing of premium, customized event experiences
- Secured partnerships with 5 top-tier local venues for preferred vendor status
This case study demonstrates how a comprehensive, visually-driven digital marketing strategy can help a special event planning company overcome intense competition, effectively showcase its creativity and expertise, and achieve significant growth in high-value client acquisition. By leveraging stunning visuals, interactive tools, and targeted content across all marketing channels, the company was able to attract more discerning clients and establish itself as the premier event planning service in its region.
View more case studies
