Promoting your live show

Promoting your Live Show

Eeek!! You've got to promote your show! So what are some of the ways do that? And why do you want to promote your show?

As to the latter questions, for one, NAMHSA requires member shows to have a promotion plan to approve membership. Secondly, it allows for folks near and far to be aware of your upcoming show and perhaps plan to attend. Third, it allows vendors and sponsors not only to learn of the opportunity to get their product/message out there, but to get out their message.

Ways of promoting the show before the event include:

Show entry packet
Web site
Email and chat
JAH advertisement
Banner advertising on hobby sites
Other media channels; press releases

The show entry packet is the tried and true method that has been used for decades in the model horse hobby. This usually includes all the show information, but once initially created is usually not updated for any changes.

A web site contains similar show information to what is in the show entry packet, but has the advantage of regular updates occurring. It also cuts the paper usage way down.

Promotion email can be to individuals, as well as a dedicated email-subscribed discussion/announcement or general/regional model horse discussion (e.g., Yahoo Groups). There are numerous chat web sites (e.g., Fallen Leaves, etc.) and social networking sites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Google+), that allow discussion and announcement of shows.

Many local newspapers and some television stations love to include events like model horse shows in their calendars. Writing a good press release, finding the right contact for each channel, is a good way of getting further attention for your show, especially if you want to invite the public in.

Show information may include:

Name of show
Where the show will be held (may include map, directions)
When the show will be held (may include detailed schedule of events)
Contact information
Class list
Show, class rules, including showmanship guidelines and other policies (including refunds)
Entry fees, and other prices/options, including discounts
Entry form, liability waiver
Judges, judging assignments
Vendors, sponsors; as applicable
Special run information, if applicable
Meal information, if applicable
Auction, raffle information, if applicable

Promotion methods at the show include:

Show program
Public address announcements
Ring, show signage
Sponsor signage

And after the show, the results (print, online) can provide further promotion for upcoming shows.

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