You’ve opened a bakery – what a sweet decision! It’s time to sell those delicious cakes and cookies and you need a quick and budget-conscious way to market yourself. Follow these five steps to make your bakery the new go-to spot!
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Utilize social media
This is crucial because social media is free and easy. You need to create a professional and polished online presence with a regularly updated Facebook and/or Twitter account. These pages should show off your beautiful and delicious creations, so be sure to post lots of pictures. Use your account to communicate with your customer base by offering promotions, how to videos, and by answering questions. Make sure that your hours, location, and contact information are accurate and clearly visible.
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Attend networking/community events
To meet potential customers, you must get you and your business out there. Join community groups and networking events. This is a great way to meet new people and get referrals. Offer to participate in a community goodwill event, which will help strengthen your reputation. Great groups to join include Rotary Club, Junior League, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Lions Club, or your local Chamber of Commerce.
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Partner with compatible businesses
Once you decide what your specialty item or the focus of your bakery will be, find businesses that complement your services. For example, if you’re creating wedding cakes, find local wedding planners and venues and offer an advertising partnership. This allows all parties to promote each other’s expertise. It’s a great way to build positive and profitable partnerships!
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Sell products at farmer’s markets and bake sales
A successful bakery has to move inventory, and an excellent way to do this is to offer your wares at local farmer’s markets, craft shows, and bake sales. This can help to supplement your income during slow seasons as well as give you more varied exposure. Consider making four or five of your best products, then set up a table at the local market. Participating in these events is not costly and attracts large crowds. Be sure to advertise your bakery clearly and have business cards on hand to give out. Link back photos and perhaps live videos of the events to your social media.
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Post ads
Don’t be afraid to post ads online, with the local radio station, and in the newspaper. Think about offering special promotions, especially around the holidays. Craigslist is a great way to advertise yourself for baking gigs and is a free marketing tool for local reach. Consider offering a unique service. If you live near a college, offer a birthday cake service which parents can order for their child.
Opening a business can be a scary and exciting time. Advertising can be a vital part of the success of business, so don’t be afraid to try new things and take a few risks. Most of all remember to try hard and have a fabulous time!
