Seasonal Marketing Tips for Property Owners (Summer Focus)

Summer is right around the corner, bringing plenty of exciting opportunities for the hospitality world. Whether you’re running a vacation rental, a charming B&B, or a lively event space, getting ready for the busy season is a must. In this blog, you’ll find practical tips to help you boost bookings, delight your guests, and keep operations running smoothly. And don’t forget,just because it’s peak season doesn’t mean you can pause your marketing. Getting guests to book is just the beginning, keeping them engaged and excited is what ensures they actually follow through.

Optimize Pricing Strategies

Effective pricing strategies are the backbone of a successful summer season. Here’s how to fine-tune your approach:

• Create Targeted Promotions: Identify periods where bookings may lag and introduce attractive promotions. Consider midweek offers to boost occupancy during typically slower periods or longer stay specials to encourage guests to extend their visits. Unique package deals tailored to different guest interests can also be a game-changer. Additionally, running a special deal exclusively for locals can attract nearby residents looking for a staycation or a weekend getaway.

  
  

• Adapt to Market Conditions: Unlike the post-pandemic years where rate increases were more feasible, this year may require a different approach. Instead of increasing rates, look at alternative revenue-generating ideas such as upselling experiences and add-ons. Think local tours, spa services, or culinary experiences that can add value to a guest’s stay without significantly raising the base cost.

Get Creative with Packages

Offering innovative and appealing packages can set your property apart.

• Experience Packages: Curate picnic packages for beach outings or hiking adventures, or put together adventure kits with all the essentials for a day of exploration. VIP experiences for local events or seasonal festivals can also attract guests looking for something special.

• Special Occasion Packages: Summer is a prime time for elopements and micro weddings. Offering packages for these intimate events can fill short lead-time gaps in your calendar, especially since larger weddings typically book 9+ months in advance.

Utilize Email Marketing and Social Media

Staying active online with email marketing and social media is a great way to keep your guests connected, engaged, and looking forward to their stay.

• Share the Excitement: Use your email campaigns to spark excitement about what’s coming up—think local events, seasonal fun, and special offers. Highlight must-see attractions and upsell experiences to both future guests and those who’ve already booked.

• Get Social & Strategic: Bring your summer vibe to life with targeted social media campaigns. Use eye-catching photos, fun storytelling, and interactive content to keep your audience engaged. Want to boost buzz? Try hosting a contest to spark interaction and get people talking about your brand!

Optimize SEM for Summer

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) is a powerful way to boost your visibility and attract more guests during the busy summer season.

• Create Content That Connects: Share blog posts that spotlight summer experiences, think local guides, wellness retreats, or seasonal recipes. These not only inspire travelers but also give your SEO a healthy boost.

• Keep Listings Fresh: Update your photos to reflect the season and double-check that all details are current across your listings. That includes Google and Bing, plus third-party sites like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb, VRBO, WeddingWire, and TheKnot.

• Smart PPC Strategy: Take a look at your pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns and consider bumping up your budget to match the spike in summer searches. A little extra investment can help make sure your property shows up right when travelers are ready to book.

Final Tips

Preparation is key to a successful summer season in the hospitality industry. By optimizing your pricing strategies, getting creative with packages, leveraging email marketing and social media, and optimizing SEM efforts, you can maximize bookings and enhance guest experiences. For personalized assistance with your summer marketing strategies, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Here’s to a profitable and enjoyable summer season!