Because Social.

How Social Media Can Bring Your Event To Life

Presented by Constance Aguilar

Strategic Communications at The Abbi Agency + CANFEST Executive Director

@theabbiagency @connieaguilar @canfest

Social Media + EventsWith the right strategy and a positive attitude, social media can be a

powerful tool for events. It has the potential to raise awareness, attract more attendees,

cultivate engagement, and extend the lifetime value of any type of event.

Finding Success with Event Social Media: The Case Study

What is CANFEST?

The world’s first strictly canned beer festival created to celebrate canned beer

Born as marketing idea for local brewery

Features unique craft breweries from around the world

One night event with tastings, music, vendors & more

Held annually in Reno

The Situation.

After taking over CANFEST in 2011, we had to find a solution to its lack of marketing budget.

In other words, THE EVENT HAD NO MONEY.

The Solution.

Pre-Event

Step 1: Build Your Networks

• Create pages, profiles with consistent branding and clear language

• Install social plug-ins on your event or organization website

• Begin sharing ORGANIC content

Organic Content

Blog Posts, Images, Flyers/Posters, Videos, News Coverage

…post on ALL your social profiles!

Step 2: Advertise with

PAID promotions

Step 3: Social branding &

organization

Boosted Posts

Facebook Domain Ads

A Hashtag will group all content posted to specific social networks together to brand

your event and create a community of online engagement & excitement

1-3 Weeks Prior to Event

Social Contesting

Social Contesting

Fan-inspired Content

Find unique ways to involve your fans, supporters, attendees, etc. in the content

promotion for your event using social media.

This builds a genuine, human connection between your event and its audience, and

can help generate new interest

Highlighting Sponsors, Speakers, Guests

Makes participants happy

Builds excitement and momentum

Shows event diversity and value

Entices new attendees

Best of all: MAKES GREAT SOCIAL CONTENT

EVENT DAY!

• Use the Hashtag• Share/Repost attendee content

• Go into the crowd & encourage social• Give on-site incentives

• Use displays to promote social use• Feature opportunities for attendees to “get social”,

e.g. Instagram photo booth

Tips by network!

Thanks for listening!

Questions?

Comments?