As many of you may be aware, I moved from Orange County California to Las Vegas NV during the pandemic, back in October of 2020. Prior to that, I had been on hiatus from 2015. What was to be a five-year break has turned into a nearly decade long break.
A break that had forced me to begin the rebuilding of my seven-figure business in a new city in a new state without the benefit of my previous client base.
Rebuilding your business in a new city can be daunting, but with a strategic and personal approach, you can leverage your cities unique environment to build a strong local presence. Here’s a systemic process to get you started, focusing on the “Know, Like, Trust” principle and free/low-cost campaigns:
Know: Establish Yourself as the Local Boudoir Expert
- Networking: Attend events for wedding planners, hairstylists, makeup artists, and other businesses that cater to women. Offer free consultations or portfolio viewing sessions to build relationships and get referrals. Look for local networking groups for photographers.
- Content Marketing: Create a blog or social media presence focused on boudoir photography. Share tips on posing, outfit selection, overcoming self-consciousness, and the benefits of boudoir shoots. Highlight the Las Vegas experience – could you offer themed shoots with iconic locations as backdrops?
- Collaborations: Partner with local businesses for cross-promotion. Offer a discount on your services to clients who book hair and makeup at a partner salon, or vice versa.
Like: Showcase Your Personality and Expertise
- Social Media Engagement: Post engaging content beyond just photos. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses, answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) in video format, and run polls/contests to get your audience interacting.
- Testimonials and Reviews: Encourage past clients to leave testimonials on your website and social media. Respond to positive feedback graciously and address any concerns promptly.
- Free Mini-Sessions: Offer free mini-boudoir sessions (shortened shoots with a limited number of photos) as contests or giveaways. This allows potential clients to experience your style and build trust.
Trust: Build Confidence and Credibility
- High-Quality Portfolio: Invest in a professional website showcasing your best work. Ensure it’s mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Offer clear pricing packages and contact information.
- Community Involvement: Sponsor a local charity event, participate in fundraising efforts, or offer boudoir photography sessions for charity auctions. This demonstrates your commitment to the Las Vegas community.
- Professionalism: Maintain a polished online presence. Respond to inquiries promptly and offer excellent customer service throughout the entire client experience.
Campaigns to Consider:
- Referral Programs: Reward existing clients for referring new clients with discounts or gift certificates.
- Themed Shoots: Offer special boudoir packages around holidays (Valentine’s Day, birthdays) or local events, like themed shoots with iconic Vegas backdrops.
- “Friend” Discount: Give a discount to clients who book a session with a friend (couples boudoir is popular in Vegas!).
Remember: Consistency is key. By regularly creating engaging content, networking, and providing exceptional service, you’ll build a strong reputation and attract new clients in Las Vegas.
Bonus Tip: Explore free or low-cost advertising opportunities. Many social media platforms offer targeted advertising options that can be more budget-friendly than traditional advertising.
The above tips are some of what we will be getting into detail with in my upcoming workshop in Costa Rica in May of 2025.
