Local events are one of the best ways to connect with pet owners, showcase your treats, and build a loyal customer base. Whether it’s a farmers’ market, a pet adoption fair, or a seasonal festival, these gatherings bring together people who love their pets and are eager to discover new businesses like yours. Let’s explore how you can effectively use local events to promote your pet bakery.
1. Set Up an Engaging Booth
Your booth is your storefront at an event, so make it inviting. Use colorful banners, cute signage, and a well-organized display of your treats. Offer free samples to attract attention and let people (and their pets) taste what makes your bakery special.
Pro Tip: Include a jar for business cards or have a signup sheet for customers to join your email list in exchange for a small discount or future offer.
2. Partner With Local Pet Organizations
Collaborating with shelters, rescues, or pet-related charities at an event adds a meaningful layer to your business. Sponsor an adoption booth or donate a portion of your sales to the organization. This not only helps a great cause but also shows customers that your bakery cares about the community.
3. Host a Fun Contest or Activity
Interactive activities keep people at your booth longer and make your bakery memorable. Organize a “Best Trick” contest for dogs or a photo booth with fun props for pets and their owners. Hand out your branded treats as prizes to winners or participants.
4. Create Event-Specific Treats
Tailor your products to the event’s theme. For example, offer pumpkin-shaped biscuits for a fall festival or heart-shaped cookies for a Valentine’s Day market. Limited-edition items grab attention and encourage quick purchases.
5. Promote Your Presence Online
Before the event, announce your participation on social media. Share sneak peeks of the treats you’ll have, details about contests, or any special promotions you’ll offer. During the event, post live updates to attract more visitors to your booth.
6. Offer Take-Home Goodie Bags
Prepare small treat bags with a sample of your product, a flyer, and your business card. These are great for attendees who may not buy at the event but want to try your treats later. A cute design on the bag adds an extra layer of professionalism.
7. Follow Up With Attendees
After the event, follow up with the contacts you collected. Send a thank-you email to everyone who signed up for your list, along with a special discount code for their first order. This keeps your bakery fresh in their minds and encourages future purchases.
Why Local Events Work
Local events offer a chance to meet customers face-to-face, build relationships, and let your treats shine. They create an environment where people can connect with your brand on a personal level, making it easier to build trust and loyalty. By bringing your bakery into the community, you’re not just selling treats—you’re becoming part of the local pet-loving culture.
Looking for more tips to grow your pet bakery? Check out our guide: How to Start a Pet Bakery Business in 2025.
