Lessons from the Edinburgh Fringe: Marketing for Everyone

Every August, the vibrant streets of Edinburgh transform into a cultural melting pot. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, boasting over 2,000 performances across 200 venues, draws in thousands of eager participants. Sounds a lot like trying to launch a product or service at an agricultural show, right? While not every Festival performer aims for stardom, the Fringe provides valuable marketing lessons applicable to any rural business.

A time to vent…

Do you sometimes think you spend all your time being polite, kind and diplomatic? Yes, so do I! In a world where we put so much effort into being polite, let’s give ourselves 20 minutes of indulgence and allow time for a rant and a moan.

Please don’t….

I’m a glass is half-full person so I promise that nine times out of ten, you will receive emails that are about things that are good to do rather than things that aren’t. However, just once in a while, it seems right to address some things (mostly, but not exclusively, related to social media) that I think negatively impact personal or business reputations and see if we can change them.

Picasso’s napkin…

Have you ever heard the story of Picasso and the napkin? Legend has it that Picasso was at a Paris market when an admirer approached and asked if he could do a quick sketch on a paper napkin for her. Picasso politely agreed, promptly created a drawing, and handed back the napkin — but not before asking for a million Francs.

Is the Press Release Toast? Traditional PR vs. the Digital Age

The world of communication is ever-evolving, and the question of whether "traditional PR is dead" is a frequent topic of debate. While some lament the decline of press releases and media lunches, others embrace the rise of social media and online influencers. So, what's the verdict?

From Fish-Out-Of-Water to Business Guru: What Ted Lasso, Kim's Convenience, and Schitt's Creek Can Teach Us

Are you binge-watching 'warmcore' TV series? If so, you’re not alone. The phrase refers to the genre of programmes offering a blend of lighthearted entertainment, positive values, and relatable experiences, making it a popular choice for viewers seeking comfort, connection, and a dose of hope during challenging times.

Awareness Days - how to use them (and orangutans) in your social media marketing

Since being established to highlight charitable causes, awareness days have grown in popularity and now there are numerous dates - some with a serious, educational aim, and others are quite whimsical. Awareness days can be a great engagement tool for your organisation.

Daily Doses of Inspiration: Kickstarting Your Day with Creative Prompts

Do you ever feel like your creativity needs a little nudge? We all have days when focus wanes and inspiration seems to hide. This year, I've been using "FOCUS" as my word of the year, and while monthly themes like "energised" and "balanced" helped, I've recently discovered the power of daily prompts. It all started with a conversation with my team at Scene & Herd. We all have our little rituals to spark motivation and get those creative juices flowing. Some swear by the Action for Happiness calendars, offering daily challenges like "re-framing a worry" or celebrating themed months like "Joyful June."

Search no further for the perfect Fathers’ Day gift…

While Father’s Day is traditionally a time for celebration and gratitude for the fathers and father figures in our lives, I understand that it can also evoke a mix of emotions, perhaps bringing to mind cherished memories of fathers who have passed away. If this is you, I send love. If you are lucky enough still to have your father with you, perhaps it’s on your mind around Father’s Day that he’s getting older or that his memories and stories won’t be around forever?

Saying No Can Be Your Superpower: A Guide to Essential Boundaries

Whether it's a collaboration that doesn't quite fit with your brand, a job applicant that doesn't have the required skills or a project that you simply don't have the capacity for, at some point, all businesses have to say “no”. It's not easy but it is an essential time management technique that brings you closer to your goals.

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