Pop-Ups Local Brands Can Do, Without Having a Big Business Budget

In the marketing news, you've likely seen a few of the pop-ups over the past few years. Brand experiences are hitting big with audiences. There has been a trend in people wanting experiences, real interaction, and getting to know the brand on a personal level. Pop-up events are great for checking off all these boxes for your audience. But, if your feed looks like yours, we see TONS of big brands taking over this space, but what about local brands and small businesses, too?

Here's the thing — You don't need a storefront, Fortune 500 investors, or a big budget. Instead, you just need an idea, a strategy, and the willingness to jump out of your comfort zone and make it happen. Let's take a look at a few ideas, plus our top tips on making this all happen.

Pop-Ups Local Brands Can Do, Without Having a Big Business Budget

Shared Space Pop-Up

Partner with a like-minded local business (but non-competing) to host a pop-up inside their shop.

(e.g., A candle brand popping up in a yoga studio or plant shop.)

Farmer's Markets & Local Fairs

These events already have built-in traffic, and booth fees are typically low. But, don't just do a table with free pens, add an interactive element like a mini workshop or spin-the-wheel discount.

Trunk Pop-Up

Set up out of your car trunk or a table in a park, beach, or busy sidewalk with the right permits. It's spontaneous, approachable, and mobile, which are all ideal for soft launches or testing new products!

Coffee Shop Takeover

Partner with a coffee shop to take over a corner table or display shelf for a day or weekend. (e.g., a jewelry or clothing brand popping up on a Saturday morning at your favorite coffee shop.) It's a great way to pair with your favorite coffee place, you could even offer a bundle deal or discount for someone who purchases two coffees and two pieces of yours!

Local Fitness Studio or Wellness Space

Pop up in the lobby or after-class zone of a spin, yoga, or Pilates studio (with permission, of course!!!) Offer a small branded goodie bag or hydration kit post-workout, something that ties in with your brand and is memorable for your audience.

Community Events

Local school fundraisers, art shows, or library events are always looking for vendors. This can be good exposure and can be helpful to support other community events!

Holiday-Themed

Lean into seasonality — Mother’s Day gift shop, Galentine’s market, Back-to-School pop-up.

Tips for Pop-Ups

1.) Have a goal

What do you want to accomplish by popping up somewhere? Website traffic? Leads? Brand recognition? Start by setting goals for the event.

2.) Go beyond the table.

We want to make sure you heard us up above, do something more than just a table and some free pens. Make it an experience! One of our favorite brands, Wishing Well laundry detergent, brings a pink washing machine with it to events. Make it fun, stand out, and on-brand!

3.) Get some digits

Collect their email addresses or phone numbers to sign up for your email list or text list so you can send a hello and follow-up! We love when an in-person connection turns digital and vice versa. Pro tip: make an incentive for joining, like a promo code or special offer.

4.) Pull out your inter-extrovert

Chat with people! Even if you are an introvert at heart, force yourself into an extrovert status for events. Let them know that you are excited to talk to them, and that alone will make the experience better for both of you.

5.) Everything is content

Don't forget to capture content from the day to make the in-person experience a digital one, too.

Need help with ideas or planning? Join a strategy session with us and let's get to work on creating the pop-up of your dreams.