Marketing

Giving Back in Style: Supporting ReBooth with a Night to Remember

 

When community and creativity come together, magic happens, and that’s exactly what we’re aiming for with our upcoming Formal Booth Fundraiser.  With so many special events happening in Southland this September we wanted to do something a little bit special. That’s where Re-Booth comes in.

From Shoes to Styling Support: The ReBooth Story

Founded by local mother-daughter duo Donagh and Maddison Booth, ReBooth began in 2022 with a humble yet powerful mission: to redistribute unwanted children’s shoes to families in need. What started as “The Shoe Booth” quickly grew, expanding to offer high school students free access to ball gowns and suits – ensuring cost wouldn’t be a barrier to celebrating milestone events.

Today, ReBooth includes but not exclusive to:

    • A shoe redistribution bank
    • Pop-up giveaway shops
    • Uniform and formalwear donations across Southland
    • Strong partnerships with schools and generous local supporters

Their reach has been extraordinary, helping hundreds of families through kindness, practicality, and sheer mahi.

A Night of Style with Purpose

To support their amazing work, we’re sharing our Elm Marketing office for a very special styling evening. Guests can book in with friends, enjoy a glass of bubbles, and browse 100s of beautiful formalwear options available through Formal Booth.  Formalwear hire is just $50, with 100% of proceeds donated to Formal Booth so they can continue offering this service to the Southland community.

Let’s Make Doing Good Look Good

We love the idea that your next outfit could also be your next opportunity to give back.  If you’d like to book your slot or find out more, head to www.elmmarketing.co.nz/formal-booth-fundraiser

Keen to help contribute but not looking to hire?

If you’ve got a dress, suit, or accessories tucked away that you no longer wear, we’d love to take them off your hands. From 4th August, we’ll have a donation box set up at the Elm Marketing office for anyone wanting to donate their quality pre-loved formalwear. Every piece helps Formal Booth continue their awesome mahi, making sure no one misses out on a special night because of the cost.  We can also accept monetary donations on ReBooths behalf.

Marketing

The cat’s out of the bag: We’ve bought Talk Visual!

Elm Marketing - Talk Visual

Elm Marketing has officially acquired Talk Visual, a design and marketing studio specialising in branding, design, and clever visual storytelling for local businesses. This move brings together two teams with a shared love for bold ideas, smart design, and helping businesses stand out.

This opportunity came about in the most natural way. We’d long admired the work of Haylee and the Talk Visual team, and after connecting over a good old industry gas bag, Haylee approached us with an exciting offer. With her upcoming move overseas and her goal of reaching ten years in business proudly achieved, she wanted to find the right home for her team, her clients, and the creative legacy she’s built. We’re honoured she chose Elm.

It’s a big move, but it feels like a natural one. The right people, the right timing, and a shared belief in doing good work well. Talk Visual’s talented creatives, Cat and Kam, have officially joined the Elm Marketing team, bringing their design skills, client relationships, and project knowledge with them. With Haylee’s thorough handover and months of careful planning, clients can expect a seamless transition and the same high level of care.

For existing Talk Visual clients, that means:

  • You’re in safe hands.

  • The faces you know and trust are still here.

  • Your projects will continue without interruption.

And for us? This is a massive milestone we’re incredibly proud of. This next chapter feels like exactly where we’re meant to be.

To Haylee: thank you for what you’ve built and for trusting us to carry it forward. We’re excited to build on your legacy and bring bold, creative work to even more businesses across the motu.

Marketing

Snap Factory Presents: The Neon Paint Party


Get ready, Southland. Snap Factory is officially open, and we’re kicking things off with something loud, bright, and completely unforgettable. The Neon Paint Party is here.

This is your invitation to let loose, get creative, and make a glowing mess in Invercargill’s newest creative event space. Whether you’re keen for a night out with friends or a fun session with the whānau, this limited-time event is the perfect way to experience Snap Factory for the first time.

What to Expect

A one-of-a-kind, limited-time event
 Available for a short time only, this is the first official event in Snap Factory’s brand new upstairs venue. If you’ve been curious about what we’ve been working on, this is it.

R18 sessions (with a drink on arrival)
 Our adults-only sessions are perfect for friend groups, work crews, or anyone keen on a night out with a twist. Grab your pals, grab your drink, and grab a paintbrush.

Family-friendly sessions available
 Yes, there’s glow fun for all ages. Bring the kids and create your own paint-splattered masterpiece together.

Take your canvas home
 Every ticket includes your own canvas to paint and keep, so you can walk away with more than just memories.

Why Snap Factory?

Snap Factory was designed to bring colour, creativity, and community into one exciting space. Whether it’s a styled shoot, a private party, or an immersive art event like this one, we wanted to create a venue where ideas come to life and look good doing it.

So if you’re looking for something fun, messy, and totally unique, the Neon Paint Party is calling your name.

Book Your Spot

Spots are limited and sessions are already filling up, so don’t wait.

Book now at: www.snapfactory.co.nz/neon-paint-party

Let’s paint the town, the walls, and each other!

Marketing

Five Years of Elm Marketing: Reflecting on the Journey

 

This week marks five years since Elm Marketing opened its doors for the very first time.

What started as a response to a clear need, one that Emma saw and stepped up to fill, has grown into something pretty special. We’re now a tight-knit team based in Southland, working alongside some incredible businesses both near and far. From start-ups and solo ventures to established brands, we’ve had the honour of helping others share their stories, connect with their audiences, and bring their ideas to life.

Over the past five years, we’ve done a lot of building, learning, laughing, and growing, not just as a business, but as a team. Every project has taught us something new. Every client has brought fresh ideas to the table. And every challenge has helped shape who we are and how we work.

We’ve been lucky enough to work on projects that truly light us up, and even luckier to meet the people behind them, passionate business owners, creative thinkers, and community leaders who inspire us every day.

So if you’re reading this with a scribbled idea on a napkin, something saved in your notes app, or just a spark of inspiration you haven’t acted on yet, take this as your sign. Back yourself. With the right support, five years from now you could be looking back on your own proud journey.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of ours. Here’s to what’s next.

#ElmMarketing #5YearsStrong #SouthlandBusiness #MarketingWithHeart #BusinessMilestone

Marketing

Discover Southland: Where Community and Opportunities Create Success

At Elm Marketing, we’re continuously inspired by how Southland’s supportive community and vibrant economic growth enrich both our personal and professional lives.

Here’s a glimpse into what makes Southland a unique place to work and thrive:

Community Connection:

In Southland, connections run deep. This isn’t just beneficial for personal relationships; it naturally enhances how businesses engage with customers and each other. A sense of belonging and mutual support helps ideas and projects flourish, providing a stable foundation for growth.

Diverse Economic Landscape:

From booming tech startups to innovative aquaculture firms, Southland is buzzing with diverse industries that are not only revitalising our local economy but also offering new opportunities for everyone. This diversity not only fuels broad economic growth but also enriches our community with varied experiences and learning opportunities.

Living and Working in Southland:

The balance of work and life here is unparalleled. With affordable living, scenic beauty, and a welcoming community, Southland offers a quality of life that’s hard to find elsewhere. This attractive lifestyle isn’t just good for our wellbeing; it also makes Southland a magnet for skilled professionals and creative minds looking for a place where they can achieve their best work.

Let’s Grow Together:

Whether you’re thinking about relocating your business or starting fresh, Southland provides a nurturing environment to do so. It’s a place where professional aspirations align seamlessly with personal happiness.

We’re proud to be part of this community, leveraging the unique strengths of Southland to foster growth and innovation. Join us and see what Southland has to offer.

#SouthlandNZ #CommunitySupport #EconomicGrowth #WorkLifeBalance #ElmMarketing

Marketing

Link Locally: Fostering Real Connections in Southland’s Business Scene

Networking isn’t just about swapping contact details; it’s about forging real connections that enrich both your personal and professional life. Here in Southland, we’re fortunate to have vibrant groups like the New Zealand Businesswomen Network, Southland Business Chamber, and Coin South. These organizations not only foster professional growth but also provide personal support and community engagement. Whether you’re new to the scene or a seasoned pro, these networks are invaluable for anyone looking to make meaningful advancements in their career.

Putting a Face to the Name
Networking provides the initial benefit of visibility within the business community. By attending group meetings and participating in events, members become more than just a name on a business card. These personal interactions help in building lasting relationships that are the foundation of meaningful business connections.

Support for every stage
Southland’s networking groups are inclusive, catering to individuals at various stages of their professional journey. For newcomers, these groups offer a welcoming environment to seek advice on getting their business off the ground. Experienced professionals find value in the diverse perspectives and mentorship opportunities. The supportive nature of these groups often leads to long-term professional relationships and a sense of community.

Building Confidence in Public Speaking
Engaging with strangers is an art, and it’s crucial for presenting and proposing new ideas confidently. Our networking events provide a safe space to practice and polish your public speaking skills, helping you present your business with confidence.

Advice and Growth
Many networking groups organize workshops, seminars, and talks by seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders. These events serve as a resource for valuable business insights and strategies for growth. Members benefit from the shared knowledge and practical advice, which can be crucial in scaling their operations and navigating market challenges.

Sharing Successes and Challenges
One of the most significant advantages of being part of a networking group is having a platform to share both challenges and successes. These discussions are not only cathartic but also immensely beneficial in gaining insights from peers who may have faced similar situations. Celebrating successes together fosters a positive environment that motivates all members to strive for further achievements.

Diverse Perspectives and Collaborative Opportunities
The diverse makeup of networking groups often leads to innovative ideas and collaborations that might not have been possible in more homogeneous environments. These collaborations can open new markets, enhance product offerings, or streamline operations, proving that collective efforts often lead to substantial benefits.

Networking in Southland is about much more than increasing business opportunities; it’s about building a support network that nurtures both personal and professional growth. By engaging actively with local networking groups, professionals can enjoy a richer, more connected business experience.

Need a pointer on where to start?
Reach out to us for recommendations on how best to engage with these groups. We’re excited to help you forge connections that not only develop your business but also support your personal growth. See you out ther

Marketing

In Southland, We Tell Our Story Differently

In Southland, We Tell Our Story Differently

 

The Power of Local: Why Understanding Your Market Matters
Marketing today can feel like it’s all about algorithms, paid reach, and mass-market tactics. But in Southland, business doesn’t work like that—it’s about real relationships, trust, and genuine connection.

That’s not to say strategy doesn’t matter—it absolutely does.

A great marketing plan is essential, but in Southland, strategy alone is not good enough. Success here isn’t just about crafting the right message; it’s about knowing who needs to hear it, how to reach them, and why they should care. It’s about understanding the people behind the businesses, the industries that drive the region, and the connections that keep it all moving forward.

Southland is a place where you don’t just send an email and hope for the best—you pick up the phone, and you know the person on the other end. It’s a region built on trust, reputation, and relationships that actually mean something. And that’s exactly why local marketing expertise is invaluable for meaningful business growth.

Back 9 Design, Elm Marketing, Naked Creative, and Talk Visual are four Southland-based agencies that understand this better than anyone. They don’t just work here—they’re part of the fabric of the business community.

Together, they help businesses not just get noticed, but be understood, trusted, and engaged with in a way that drives results. And they do it by blending strategy with real relationships—the kind of relationships that make things happen in Southland.

The Southland Marketing Ecosystem: Where Strategy Meets Connection
Each of these agencies brings something different to the table, but they all operate within the Southland business ecosystem, making sure marketing isn’t just well-planned, it’s well-connected.

  • Back 9 Design makes sure businesses have a strong and effective online presence, developing digital strategies that engage with the right people.
  • Elm Marketing supports growing businesses by delivering strategic, creative marketing that helps them stand out, connect with their audience, and contribute to the region’s cultural and economic vibrancy.
  • Naked Creative works closely with industries, businesses, and food producers, helping them shape their narratives and position themselves locally, nationally, and internationally.
  • Talk Visual specialises in design-focused marketing, blending creativity with a strong local focus to ensure businesses are seen, remembered, and engaged with in meaningful ways.

But it’s not just about what they do—it’s about how they do it. They know that Southland marketing isn’t just about pushing out ads, it’s about telling the right stories, building relationships, and making sure businesses connect with the right people in the right way.

Southland is a region where business is personal, where success is built on trust, relationships, and a deep understanding of the local landscape. Here, word-of-mouth and personal networks drive opportunities, and marketing isn’t just about visibility—it’s about connection. People do business with those they trust, and the most effective marketing strategies are rooted in authenticity, long-term relationships, and a genuine respect for the region’s values. In Southland, hard work, loyalty, and mutual respect matter, and local agencies get the nuances. They understand how to craft marketing that feels real, resonates with people, and delivers results.

They prove that the best marketing happens when strategy is supported by relationships, trust, and a deep local understanding.

Because here in Southland, success isn’t just about reaching people, it’s about knowing them.

Marketing

Unlock Business Growth with Elm Marketing

In today’s competitive market, effective marketing is not just about making sales—it’s about creating lasting relationships. That’s where Elm Marketing steps in. With our Partnership Package, we go beyond traditional marketing services to become an integral part of your team, dedicated to your long-term growth.

Empowering Your Business Through Strategic Partnerships

At Elm Marketing, we understand that growth is a journey that requires continuous effort and expert support. Our Partnership Package is designed to empower this journey, providing you with not just services, but a strategic partnership. This package ensures that your marketing efforts are aligned with your business goals, driving sustainable growth through tailored strategies and consistent execution.

What Does the Partnership Package Include?

Strategic Marketing Support: We offer comprehensive support designed to align with your strategic goals, enhancing your brand’s presence and market reach.

Expert Team Access: Gain full access to our experienced team of marketing professionals who are committed to elevating your brand.

Regular Consultations and Check-Ins: We ensure that our strategies are in perfect sync with your objectives through regular meetings and updates.

Digital and Creative Support: From managing your website and improving your SEO to handling your social media and creative design, our team covers all bases to ensure your digital presence is strong and coherent.

Exclusive Benefits of Partnering with Elm Marketing

Choosing our Partnership Package means you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits such as discounted rates and premium services. This setup allows you to focus on your core business activities while we efficiently manage your marketing efforts. It’s a cost-effective solution that provides high value, ensuring that every dollar you invest in marketing works harder for you.

Beyond Ordinary: Grow Your Business with Us

Joining hands with Elm Marketing means you’re ready to unlock new opportunities and catalyse your business growth. Our collaborative approach ensures that your brand not only gains momentum but does so in a way that preserves your brand’s identity and values.

If you’re looking to not just compete but lead in your industry, the Elm Marketing Partnership Package is your gateway to success. With us, you’re not outsourcing; you’re enhancing your team with experts who are as invested in your success as you are.

Ready to transform your marketing approach and see real growth? Book a discovery session with us today at Elm Marketing. 

Let’s plant those seeds for growth together and watch your business flourish.

Marketing

Understanding Social Media Algorithms for Better Engagement

 

In the ever-evolving world of social media, staying visible and engaging to your audience can seem like a daunting task. In this blog, we delve into why regular posting can be your biggest ally in navigating social media algorithms and keeping your content alive in followers’ feeds.

The Power of Consistency:

Consistency in social media marketing does more than just keep your brand top of mind, it influences how algorithms assess and prioritise your content. Social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Linked In, are designed to show users content that is not only relevant but also freshly updated. Regular posts signal to these algorithms that your content is current and potentially valuable to audiences, thus increasing the likelihood of higher visibility in feeds.

Understanding Social Media Algorithms:

Social media algorithms are complex systems that determine what content appears in each user’s feed. While the specifics of these algorithms are closely guarded secrets, one known factor is their affinity for consistency. These algorithms prioritize content from accounts that post regularly because frequent updates often correlate with engagement and relevance, two metrics that boost content visibility.

The Lifespan of Social Media Posts:

The lifespan of a social media post varies significantly across different platforms:

•On Twitter, the fast-paced nature means tweets can become buried within minutes to an hour.

•On Facebook, posts may have a slightly longer lifespan but typically only stay in the feed for about 5 to 6 hours.

•Instagram posts can remain visible for around 24 to 48 hours depending on engagement levels and other contributing factors.

Knowing this, strategising your posting schedule to optimise each platform’s unique characteristics is crucial.

Tips for Consistent Posting:

1.Content Calendar: Develop a content calendar that outlines what to post and when. This helps in maintaining a regular posting schedule and ensures your content strategy aligns with key business goals.

2.Quality Over Quantity: While consistency is critical, the quality of your content should not be compromised. Ensure each post offers value and aligns with your brand’s message.

3.Engagement: Actively engage with your audience. Respond to comments, participate in conversations, and encourage user interaction. Engagement helps in keeping your posts alive for longer as algorithms favour content that generates discussion.

4.Analytics: Utilise platform analytics to understand what works and what doesn’t. This data can guide your content strategy and posting frequency.

Mastering the rhythm of consistent content delivery can significantly enhance your social media presence. Remember, effective social media marketing isn’t just about frequent updates, but also about creating meaningful connections with your audience. Stay regular, stay relevant, and watch your digital relationships flourish.

Need assistance to improve your social media presence? 

At Elm Marketing, we offer 1:1 training and support to help you build confidence, gain new skills, and take control of your marketing. We can help you understand what to post, when to post, and how to engage your audience. Contact us to book in your session! 




Marketing

Want to Learn More About Marketing?

Want to Learn More About Marketing? Elm Marketing Offers 1:1 Training & Support

Marketing can feel overwhelming—there’s always something new to learn, algorithms to keep up with, and endless advice on what you should be doing. But what if you had a trusted guide to help you navigate it all?

At Elm Marketing, we offer 1:1 training and support to help you build confidence, gain new skills, and take control of your marketing. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your strategy, we’ll work with you at your own pace to ensure you get the support you need.

How We Can Help

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we tailor our training to suit your business goals. Here are some of the areas we can support you with:

  • Social Media Strategy & Content Planning – Understand what to post, when to post, and how to engage your audience.
  • SEO & Website Optimisation – Improve your website’s visibility so more people can find you online.
  • Email Marketing – Learn how to build and engage an email list that converts.
  • Canva Help – Create a strong, cohesive brand that reflects your business through Canva.
  • ChatGPT Training – Learn how to use ChatGPT to your advantage.
  • Analytics & Insights – Track your results so you can make informed marketing decisions.

Why Choose Elm Marketing?

We’re not here to overwhelm you with jargon or generic advice. Our 1:1 training is practical, approachable, and tailored to what you need. Whether you want hands-on training, a brainstorming session, or ongoing support, we’re here to help.

Looking to upskill and grow your business?

Get in touch with us today, and let’s chat about how we can support you.

Contact Us

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