As Australia begins to relax, bridal businesses are anticipating a sparkling summer full of lively wedding celebrations and radiant brides. Long-established bridal store Vision in White is already reaping the rewards for keeping its brand strong and relevant throughout 2020.
Reliant on in-person purchases, Vision in White confronted significant trading challenges this year, but the store’s marketing aided by Realise Business helped it keep going all year to delight brides this summer.
Business owner Jenny Punch sought the assistance of Realise Business advisor Sue Walsh with raising the profile of Vision in White during times of PLR construction and COVID-19 developments which have tested many Parramatta businesses.
In particular Jenny wanted expert help with a sophisticated media and website campaign and has been thrilled with the input of Realise Business, commenting, “Sue and the team have taken the time to understand my business and what I was trying to achieve, and were able to put my thoughts into action.”
When Sue Walsh began working with Vision in White, the business had a sound reputation but needed to extend its reach, especially as the bridal gown market had been disrupted by pandemic restrictions that caused the postponement of so many weddings.
To be prepared for the inevitable surge of weddings that would follow the ending of restrictions, the business needed to be well dressed and ready to celebrate at any time.
Vision in White had regular social media postings to build on, but the objective was to heighten brand awareness and inform wedding parties it was open for business. Another objective was to offer specific promotions for a stock clearance that would enable an increase in the bridal range.
To relay that Vision in White is still open, taking appointments and COVID-safe Jenny used Facebook to explain how they were operating as a safe business as well as advertising in-store promotions. She also sent newsletter updates to a database of 700 subscribers highlighting promotions and providing helpful advice such as guidelines for weddings that incorporate COVID safety.
Facebook and Instagram posts were also used to remind customers of the exquisite creations still available to local brides.
Sue also worked with Jenny and a web designer to update her website and Realise Business will be providing ongoing SEO advice to maximise Google rankings for Vision in White. They also plan to approach local reception venues to promote the business.
Like all local businesses they will still have to navigate post COVID and PLR construction in the months ahead, but due to the increased marketing activations and content plan Vision in White is humming. Jenny comments, “There has been a huge increase in enquiries being made and many of them February/March wedding dates. Although most designers need a 6-8 month lead time to make a dress, at Vision in White we stock a huge range of gowns in many sizes, from many designers which are perfect for these short turnaround timeframes.”
According to Jenny, “Realise Business has been a great help to my business during what has been a very difficult time.” Working with them on a marketing strategy has helped this Parramatta business keep its vision of bridal bliss alive. “The support has been invaluable,” adds Jenny.
If you are one of the many businesses that would benefit from a good website and a strategy for regular social media and brand awareness, contact the Realise Business team today.