Summer’s coming, and so are the crowds
The holidays bring a rush of bookings, big expectations, and (fingers crossed!) full houses. But in a sea of summer specials and new openings, how do you make your venue the one people remember and return to?
That’s exactly what we covered in our most recent live Crunch Q&A with business coach James O’Connell, who shared practical ways to turn this summer’s traffic into long-term success.
Here are five marketing hacks from that session to help your venue stand out and sell out.
1. Turn every service into marketing gold
Your guest experience is your most powerful marketing tool.
Everything from your social media posts to your menus makes a promise, and summer is your chance to deliver on it.
James puts it simply:
“They never were a customer. The moment they arrive into your business, they’re a guest.”
Treat every visit like a chance to create your next regular. When guests feel genuinely looked after, they don’t just come back, they tell their friends.
2. Language matters more than you think
Small shifts in how you speak can transform team behaviour and guest perception. Replace “servers” with “hosts,” and “customers” with “guests.”
That mindset switch alone raises your team’s standard of care and helps guests feel part of something special.
As James says,
“Servers? That’s a computer term. It’s 2025. Your team are hosts.”
3. Let your Google score do the selling
Your Google rating isn’t just reputation, it’s conversion. Most people won’t book a table below 4.5 stars.
✅ Check your Google My Business profile.
✅ Update photos, hours, and menus.
✅ Reply to reviews (yes, even the awkward ones).
If you’ve got a 4.8 or 4.9 rating, shout it from the rooftops. Post it on your website and social media. You’ve earned it.
4. Ditch the discounts and offer value instead
Discounting can eat your profit and cheapen your brand. Instead, focus on value-adds like a complimentary drink on arrival or a set menu that highlights your best dishes.
Tools like First Table can also help fill quiet times without slashing your prices. Remember, promotions should be strategic, not a scramble.
5. Create FOMO through social media
During peak season, your venue’s energy is your biggest marketing asset.
Instead of posting static food photos, capture the vibe! Film reels of your beer garden, the laughter, the live music.
As James says, “Use the story of what’s happening in your business.”
When guests see others having a great time, they don’t want to miss out, and that’s what could fill your next service.
Ready to market smarter?
These insights came straight from our live Q&A session with industry expert James O’Connell, available exclusively to Crunch members. Start your 30-day free trial for more expert advice, live coaching, and a connected hospo community.
Want more like this?
Watch the Smarter Marketing Masterclass with Sarah Franklyn. The first 10 minutes are free here!
