Coachella, but for Small Businesses? Brand Activation at Local Events

You don't have to visit the Palm Desert to have a brand experience!

Throw out those festival wristbands and a seven-figure budget, and let's discuss how to create a brand moment people remember, like a Coachella in your city.

Coachella has become the hub for major brand activations, with everyone from 818 Tequila to Pinterest showing up in the desert to make waves both IRL and on our social feeds. Here are a few of our favorites.

The best brand activations from Coachella

From sun-drenched sets to immersive experiences, brands showed up in the desert and on the feed — and we were taking notes.⁠

But here’s the thing: small businesses can (and should) be doing the exact same thing, just on their own scale. And no, you don't have to live in New York, LA, or Chicago to make this happen either.

Small Business Activations

Pop-Up Experiences at Local Markets or Events

Think, branded booths, product sampling, interactive games, like a spin the wheel or fun photo opp set-up. Markets are like a mall for small businesses and shops, this is an amazing chance to connect with your local audience. Don't be the brand that just has a table with business cards; make it memorable. This is how you can stand out against the other brand booths that are there and start off your first impression with your audience in unique ways. First impressions are everything. Make it a fun one!

Collaborative Brand Shoots

Team up with other small businesses and host a styled content shoot. Not only do you all get on-brand visuals, but you also cross-promote and reach new audiences in the process. Invite your audience to participate if you need extras and models.

Influencer Experiences

Invite local creators to a mini experience, like a themed night, product preview, or workshop. Gift them something branded, make the setting Instagram-worthy, and let the UGC flow from there!

Packaging

Even if you aren't a local brand, you can create an experience in your audience's home when they order your products. Branded mailers, personalized notes, mini swag items, or “unbox me on stories” prompts can be a fun way to meet customers where they are. Remote experiences are still experiences.

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Whether it’s a content shoot that brings your brand to life or an influencer campaign that actually converts, activations aren’t just for the Fortune 500 companies. Small brands can (and should) show up, too!