300 million monthly active users posting an average of 70 million photos per day tell us something about the visual storytelling app, Instagram: it’s not about to fold any time soon. Here are 10 types of Instagram pics for posting to your wedding business account to increase your following, build rapport with customers and drive traffic to your website for increased conversion and enquiries.
1. Quotes & phrases
There is an abundance of humourous, inspirational, motivational and wedding-specific quotes available on Tumblr and Pinterest these days that can be repurposed for Instagram. If you’re going to use content belonging to someone else, graciously credit the original source, or create your own quote with free royalty-free images and PicMonkey.
2. Giveaways
‘Like’ contests, comment competitions and crowd-sourced photo challenges are just some of the entry submission types for Instagram giveaways suggested by Social Media Examiner. Asking followers to tag a friend in the comments is another clever strategy for increased exposure, like this pic has done with a ‘follow, like, tag’ entry trifecta.
3. Behind the scenes
Make followers feel like you’re inviting them backstage for an exclusive preview of what’s to come, whether it’s the makings of an extravagant tiered cake, hand-sketched ideas for a floral bouquet or a photoshoot revealing a sneak peak at your latest couture creation.
4. Social posts
Birthdays, after work drinks and Christmas parties are a great way to express your company culture and shows clients the beautiful smiling faces behind the brand. Be sure to tag people in the post to increase the chances of those in the photo reposting the Instagram pic to their own personal account for maximum exposure.
5. Product flatlays
Show how to accessorise your products with non-competing, complimentary products of similar colours, styles or categories. Flatlay image tips from online sales platform Soldsie include using a neutral background, making the most of natural light, creating a consistent colour palette, adding a pop of colour, experimenting with vacant space, or using texture to bring your pictures to life.
6. Storyboard collage
Using apps like InstaCollage, present a case study through a collection of images that reveal your involvement in a client’s big day, whether it’s hair & makeup, cakes or catering. Remember to seek clients’ permission prior to using their images and tag them in the post once published for increased exposure.
7. Fill the blanks
Even if you’ve never tried cutting your own bangs (a traumatic experience easily forgotten), everyone harbours fashion regret from bygone times. ‘Fill the blank’ posts that appeal to the masses’ fears, frustrations or desires will generate an increase in followers and overall account activity.
8. Videos
Wedding videographers should take advantage of Instagram’s 15-second video uploads to help demonstrate their craft. Businesses presenting at wedding trade shows can also use the footage to showcase their stand and any freebies being given away at the event. Don’t forget to add the official event hashtag to attract as many expo attendants as possible.
9. Memes
Quicksprout refers to memes as “just-because content…When the mood hits or a funny idea strikes you, go ahead and meme it”. You don’t have to be a gun graphic designer or even own photo editing software. These days, sites like Meme Generator and someecards allow you to create your own memes or choose from a selection of favourites like Grumpy Cat, Condescending Wonka and Philosoraptor.
10. Exclusive discounts and specials
Invite followers to an Instagram-only sale and include a coupon code that will enable you to track the success of the post. Unfortunately, until Instagram rolls out clickable links and ‘carousels’ for all users, including hyperlinked URLs to post descriptions is reserved for paying advertisers… but it can’t hurt to add a URL to your post, if only as a branding exercise.
The key to using Instagram to market your wedding business is knowing what to hashtag to attract new followers. To ensure consistency, include Instagram in your editorial calendar, maintain a regular posting schedule and watch your following steadily grow. Also check out what Easy Weddings is up to on Instagram for the latest in wedding trends, industry news and inspiration.
