Question

Topic: Advertising/PR

How To Market Horse Riding Holidays?

Posted by Anonymous on 12/25/2011 at 1:59 AM ET 125 Points
I have launched a horse riding holiday business in the south-west of France this year. We have a SEOsed website Horse-Riding-Courses.com and blog and are negotiating with worldwide riding holiday websites to feature on their lists - though due to the type of holiday we offer, most of these websites are unsuitable. I have had posters printed to send to riding schools that I know of. We are still short of funds, so Adsense etc. is not an option. According to similar businesses, advertising in horse riding magazines is not cost-effective. I am a member of several forums, my signature includes our website address. I would very much appreciate your thoughts.
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RESPONSES

  • Posted on 12/30/2011 at 1:34 AM Accepted
    Acorn (or Margaretha?),

    I visited your website. You have LOTS of information and pictures there, and that is a good thing. I noticed that the verbiage could use some editing so it's concise and easier to digest. It would also have more impact (in my opinion) if you re-worded some things. But to answer your question....

    Based on the humble, laid back atmosphere you suggest in your description (guests eat with the family, the small number of horses, etc.) I think your ideal customers are people who want to relax, get away from it all, and have a very personal experience.

    Maybe you should contact massage therapists, counseling offices, even rehabilitation centers (mental and chemical treatment facilities). These are places with people who need to relax or try something different to get away from the hustle and bustle. Likewise, consider giving a gift certificate to local businesses that they can use as a treat for their top employee. Have the guest agree to give their feedback or be featured on your blog and/or website. Make a huge deal out of it so they will tell their friends and that will get you more visibility.

    Become very familiar with local hotels and try to get flyers or business cards in the bus stations, taxis and restaurants where tourists are likely to be found.

    If you haven't already, get written or recorded (audio or video) testimonials from satisfied customers saying what they love about your establishment. Hearing other people talk about how great the experience is always helps to sell. Do you have customers who live in the area? If so, follow up with them periodically to encourage them to return or refer their friends.

    Check out 48Days.com and go to the Resources page. You'll find a worksheet of Marketing Tips that should be very helpful. Also, look for the book Guerrilla Marketing by Jay Conrad Levinson. You can go to his website gmarketing.com for articles and sign up for his free e-newsletter.

    I hope this helps. If you would like to talk about working on your verbiage or more marketing ideas, I would be glad to do so. My email is [Email address deleted by staff].
    Best wishes!
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