Be inspired with these tips, ideas and good examples.
You own a small business, and you think you know what digital marketing is but you’re not really sure why and where to start. I’ll be sharing tips on various topics, examples of good practice, and more about Red Rose Media & Marketing and how I can help you, or inspire you to achieve your digital marketing goals.
Year Two in Bloom
When did you last pause to celebrate your own success? As small business owners we are great at cracking on, less great at looking up. Red Rose Media & Marketing has just turned two, so I’m taking this moment to reflect, say thank you, and share a few lessons that might help you too.
Two years on, my values are the same: make it clear, make it human, make it easy to act. Here’s how that shaped this year.
Marketing vs Communications: Why your posts aren’t converting (and how to fix it)
You’re posting. You’re emailing. You’re updating your website.
But bookings aren’t moving.
The issue usually isn’t effort. It’s the missing link between communication (a clear message that lands with the right people) and marketing (a simple plan that moves those people to take action). When both work together, your updates turn into enquiries. When they don’t, it feels like shouting into the void.
As someone who’s spent over a decade in communications and holds a Master’s in marketing, I’ve seen this play out across small businesses and charities of every shape and size. Let’s fix it - in plain English.
Why I took my laptop on holiday — and I’d do it again.
Our summer holidays are booked about a year in advance – it gives us something to look forward to all year, but somehow it still sneaks up on me when it comes to managing work before (and during) the break.
This year we were off to Bude in Cornwall — a peaceful spot we fell in love with six years ago. This time around, it was a chance to reset and spend proper time with my husband and two boys, away from emails, social media alerts and "just one more quick job".
The biggest mistake in small business marketing: no strategy
If you run a small business or charity, you need a simple digital marketing plan that lines up your goals, audience, channels and content. A joined-up digital marketing strategy for small businesses helps you spend smarter, show up where people search, and measure what matters.
Three ways we search and what you need to do to be found
Search has changed. And for small business owners, charities and marketers trying to stay ahead of the curve, it can feel like you’re constantly playing catch up.
Are people still Googling things? Yes. Are they searching TikTok instead? Also yes. Are they asking ChatGPT to find the best gift for under £20 or a safe way to stop their smoke alarm from beeping? (True story: mine wouldn't stop until ChatGPT suggested hoovering it. Magic.) Absolutely.
So, what does this mean for your business?
Why video marketing is the secret weapon for small businesses and charities
Marketing as a small business or charity can feel like shouting into a void – you’ve got something brilliant to offer, but limited time, money, and resources to get the word out. That’s where video comes into its own. It’s eye-catching, easy to digest, and a powerful way to connect with your audience on a personal level.
But let’s be honest – the idea of video can feel overwhelming. Professional equipment, editing, scripting – it all sounds expensive and complicated. That’s where affordable video marketing comes in, and why working with a freelance videographer like me can be a game-changer.
Unlocking AI for small business marketing
If you're running a small business or charity, you're probably already wearing 12 hats, juggling your to-do list, and wondering how you're meant to show up consistently online too. Tools like ChatGPT and Claude can be a powerful helping hand when it comes to content creation - if you know how to use them properly.
I chat to and work with small businesses who are already dabbling in AI but need a little guidance on how to get the best results. So, in this blog, I’ll break it down simply, explain what AI content creation actually means, share the tools I rate, and give you tips to make your content better without losing your personal touch.
How to track and improve your online marketing
When it comes to online marketing, many small businesses put in the effort - posting on social media, updating their websites, and running email campaigns - but struggle to answer a key question: Is it actually working?
Success isn’t just about how many likes you get or how many people visit your website. It’s about understanding what’s driving real value for your business and using that data to improve your strategy over time.
15 simple small business marketing ideas to try
Marketing your small business doesn't have to be overwhelming or expensive. The key is to focus on simple, effective strategies that deliver real results without draining your time or budget. Here are 15 easy marketing ideas you can start using today to raise your online profile, attract new customers, and grow your business.
Think your website is ‘done’? Here’s why it still needs attention
Many small business owners assume that once their website is live, the job is done. But here’s the truth: a website isn’t a one-time project—it’s an ongoing commitment. Think of it as a shopfront. If it looks neglected, is hard to navigate, or hasn’t been refreshed in years, potential customers might walk away. Regular maintenance and updates (back-end stuff) and fresh content (front-end stuff) are what keep your website relevant, engaging, and working hard for your business.
Need help to achieve your digital marketing goals?
Red Rose Media & Marketing offers expert advice and knowledge in a range of media and digital marketing for your small business or charity including content creation, website development & SEO, social media management, video production and strategy.