Blog - Page 2 of 2 - Creative Little Soul

Why You Still Need a Graphic Designer (Even if You Love Canva)

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 9 June 2025. Posted in Articles, Marketing.

Let’s be real.. Canva is brilliant. It’s made design more accessible, fun, and user-friendly than ever before. Whether you’re whipping up a quick Instagram post, a flyer for your event, or a pitch deck, Canva offers endless templates, tools, and resources at your fingertips.

But here’s the truth: Canva is not a substitute for a professional graphic designer.

Canva gives you templates. A designer gives you strategy.

Sure, you can choose a nice layout and plug in your content. But does that layout align with your brand identity? Does it speak to your audience? Is it helping you achieve a specific marketing goal? Graphic designers aren’t just visual decorators — they’re strategic thinkers. They look at the why behind every element. Colour, typography, layout, visual hierarchy — these aren’t random choices, they’re deliberate decisions that drive outcomes.

Brand consistency matters.

One of the biggest issues with Canva is how easy it is to stray off-brand. With thousands of fonts, colours, and styles at your fingertips, your content can quickly become visually inconsistent — and that leads to confusion for your audience.

A graphic designer creates a cohesive visual identity, ensuring every piece of content you produce — from your logo and packaging to your social posts and website — looks and feels like you. That kind of consistency builds trust, professionalism, and brand recognition.

Custom > Cookie-cutter

Canva’s strength is also its weakness: everyone uses it. That gorgeous template you just found? So have thousands of others. A graphic designer, on the other hand, creates original, custom work that reflects your unique vibe and goals. No one else will have it. Period.

Design saves time (and your reputation)

DIY designs often take way longer than expected, and the end result can be hit or miss. A pro designer works efficiently, brings ideas to life faster, and delivers polished, high-quality assets that elevate your brand.Bad design can actually cost you more — in missed opportunities, confused messaging, or a less-than-professional first impression.

In short? Canva is great for quick jobs, but it’s no replacement for a designer.

Use Canva to complement your designer’s work — not replace it. When it comes to launches, rebrands, packaging, signage, campaigns, and anything that’s customer-facing or high-stakes, investing in a designer is a no-brainer.

Want help standing out for the right reasons? Let’s chat.
At Creative Little Soul, we combine smart strategy with killer visuals that connect and convert. Because your brand deserves more than a template.

Meet the team: Milly Guo

Written by Olivia Modellino on 6 June 2025. Posted in CLS News, Interviews.

At Creative Little Soul, our team is the heart of everything we do—full of passionate, talented individuals who bring ideas to life and creativity to every project. We’re excited to introduce the latest addition to the crew, Junior Graphic Designer Milly Guo. With a flair for design and a fresh perspective, Milly brings new energy to the team. Get to know her a little better in this team spotlight!

What is your role at Creative Little Soul?

Junior Graphic Designer.

What was your first paying job and what did it teach you?

My first paying job was Smiggle. They taught me how to do different forms of payments, visual merchandising, customer service and how to run the store. I used to be really shy and had difficulty with communication, so it really helped me develop confidence in interacting with others.

What tertiary/vocational education have you completed?

I initially finished my Bachelors of Animation at UTS by the end of 2020, however, I didn’t feel like I wanted to enter that industry anymore and decided to give graphic design a go. The journey began with a Certificate IV, then Diploma, and lastly my Advanced Diploma which I completed at the end of 2024.

Where did you work before landing your job at CLS?

I still currently work at Cotton On as a senior casual.

What do you do to stay motivated at work? Do you have a productivity hack you can share with us?

I stay motivated at work by creating a good morning ritual such as making myself a chai latte or matcha. It helps me start off the day feeling positive and focused. Then when I am at work, I set small, clear goals for myself to make each task feel achievable. The more I complete these smaller goals, the more motivated I become to get the overall project done.

What is your favourite social media platform and why?

Youtube is my favourite. It’s my source of entertainment and a way for me to keep up with the current news but also helps me to learn about random topics that end up being inspiration for my projects.

What are some of your favourite things to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I love to spend time with my dog which is usually going for walks or playing together at home. I also enjoy playing video games which I find is a great way to relax.

As a Graphic Designer…

What is your favourite way to be creative?

My favourite way to be creative is to keep exploring and expanding my creative skills. I like to experiment with different mediums, both traditional and digital. I also get inspired by external influences. For example I like to visit Kinokuniya in Sydney CBD and browse their graphic design books, which always provides me with fresh ideas and new ways of thinking.

What is your favourite colour and why?

My favourite colour is pastel purple. Something about the colour is light and whimsical about it and I find it really calming. It also reminds me of lavenders which have a natural and soothing vibe that I really connect with.

What are your favourite design tools/programs? Why do you like them?

My favourite design tool is Adobe Illustrator. It has so many versatile functions and is easy to use too. What I like most about it is being able to create vector artworks so I can resize my assets without losing any quality.

What brands to do admire personally? What do you like about them?

The type of brands I admire are the ones that incorporate mascots or characters intoo their identity. I find that these brands are more friendly and approachable, making it easier for people to connect with them. For example, I noticed Butter Boy in my area and love how their brand identity is applied across different areas, from their packaging to their store interiors. Their colour choices and visually really stand out and make the brand memorable. I value visuals that help create genuine connection with people and Butter Boy does a wonderful job achieving that.

What are you most excited about in your new role at CLS?

I’m most excited to be part of a creative and digital marketing agency where I can contribute my skills to real projects. I’ve always wanted to work in an agency because of the variety of work. Where everyday is different and it gives me the opportunity to learn and adapt constantly. I’m also looking forward to gaining valuable industry experience and getting to know how an agency runs, espeially in areas I’m less familiar with like marketing.

We’re so excited to have Milly on board and can’t wait to see her creativity shine across all things CLS. Keep an eye out—you’ll be seeing more of her work very soon!

Why You Should Ramp Up Your Marketing This Winter — Not Slow Down

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 3 June 2025. Posted in Articles.

As the cooler months roll in and the summer buzz settles, it’s tempting for businesses—especially in hospitality, retail, and service-based industries—to scale back their marketing efforts. Foot traffic might dip, events quieten, and customers naturally retreat indoors.

But here’s the truth: winter is not the time to go quiet. It’s the time to get clever.

Why Slowing Down is a Mistake

Many businesses fall into the trap of thinking, “It’s our slow season, so let’s just wait it out.” But doing nothing means losing valuable ground—visibility, momentum, and connection with your audience. Your competitors who do show up during the quieter months? They stay top of mind, build loyalty, and come out stronger when things pick up again.

Winter is your opportunity to nurture relationships, test ideas, and get smart with your data.

3 Ways to Warm Up Your Winter Marketing Strategy

1. Use the Data You Captured During Peak Season

You’ve just come out of a busy stretch (hello, summer events, peak sales, school holidays…). Chances are, you’ve collected valuable customer data—emails, phone numbers, buying behaviours, location info. Now’s the time to use it.

Segment your lists:

Locals vs out-of-towners
Past customers vs leads
High spenders vs browsers

And speak directly to them with tailored offers and relevant content.

2. Engage With SMS Marketing (Yes, Really!)

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-timed text. SMS has an open rate of over 90%, and when paired with the right offer, it gets results.

Ideas for SMS campaigns:

Flash winter deals (“$10 off your next coffee – this week only!”)
Last-minute appointment availability
VIP early access to an event or product drop
Local-only promos to bring in the neighbourhood crowd

Keep it short and sharp and include a call to action—think “Book now,” “Show this text,” or “Tap here to claim.”

3. Create Irresistible Winter Offers

Now’s the time to launch cosy, creative, and local-friendly promos. Think:

Winter warm-up bundles (pairings, packages, or limited-edition seasonal items)
Mid-week madness or slow-day savers
Referral rewards for bringing in friends
“Locals only” incentives to build loyalty in your own backyard

Make people feel like they’re getting something special and exclusive by showing up during the quieter months.

The Takeaway?

You don’t need to hibernate through winter. You need to shift your strategy. Use the quieter pace to reconnect, remarket, and re-engage the people who already love what you do. When done well, winter can be the season that builds loyalty, drives repeat business and sets you up for a red-hot spring and summer.

Need help getting started? Let’s chat about a custom winter campaign that speaks directly to your audience — even better, let’s turn your summer data into cold-weather gold ???

Quick Fixes to Instantly Improve Your Website or Insta Bio

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 25 May 2025. Posted in Articles, Resources.

Let’s be real — people judge fast. Whether they’re landing on your site or checking out your Instagram profile, you’ve got maybe 3 seconds to catch their attention. Your bio is your online first impression. If it’s boring, messy, or unclear… people bounce.

But don’t stress — here are some quick fixes that take minutes and make a big difference:

1. Make Your Message Clear

Your bio isn’t the place to be mysterious. Say exactly what you do and who you help.

Instead of:
“Living my best life | Dream chaser”

Try:
“Fitness Coach helping busy moms get strong at home ?”

2. Add One Strong Call to Action & Give people something to click or do.

“Download my free guide”
“Book a free 15-min chat”
“Check out my latest drop”

Just one clear action is better than a list of 10 random links.

3. Clean Up the Clutter & Ditch outdated info

Keep it short (especially on Insta) and use line breaks to make it skimmable. Highlight all important information by using a few emojis to guide the eye ? but don’t go emoji-wild.

? NYC-based
? Freelance Designer
? Let’s chat: hello@you.com

Website tip: Look at your homepage like a stranger. Is it obvious what you offer and how to get it?

4. Add a Human Touch

People connect with people. A friendly headshot, a quirky emoji, or a fun fact can go a long way. Is your profile picture Blurry? Outdated? A logo instead of a face? Swap it out. Clear, friendly, and on-brand wins every time.

On Instagram? Try:

“Based in NYC | Coffee snob ?? | Dog mom”

On your site? Use a short intro like:
“Hi, I’m Sarah — designer, pizza lover, and your new brand bestie.”

5. Fix Your Link Game

If you’re still linking to a homepage or nothing at all — fix that. Use Linktree, Beacons, or even better — your own branded landing page. Make sure it’s mobile-friendly and actually leads to something useful.

That’s it! No coding. No drama. Just small tweaks = big impact.

Take 10 minutes today and give your digital first impression a glow-up. Your future followers (and customers) will thank you. If you’re feeling a little stuck, we can help. Book a 1 on 1 with Chrissy today!

How to Tell if It’s Time to Rebrand (And What to Do About It)

Written by Olivia Modellino on 16 May 2025. Posted in Articles, Resources, Small Business Advice.

Rebranding is a big decision and one that often sneaks up on you. It might start with a slight feeling: your logo doesn’t quite excite you anymore, or your website feels outdated like a business you barely recognise anymore. If you’re sensing that your brand isn’t keeping up with your growth, you’re not alone — and you’re not imagining it.

At CLS, we see it all the time: businesses evolving, pivoting, or levelling up, and realising their brand needs to catch up too. Here’s how to tell if it’s time to rebrand, and what you can do to move forward with confidence:

Signs It’s Time to Rebrand

Your brand no longer reflects who you are

When you first launched, your branding made perfect sense. But businesses evolve — and so do founders. If your brand no longer matches your services, values, or vision, it’s a strong sign you’ve outgrown it. It’s not about starting from scratch but building something that matches where you’re headed.

Your audience has changed — or you want it to

If you’re shifting your focus or branching into new markets, your brand needs to speak to the people you want to connect with now — not just the audience you started with. Outgrowing your brand isn’t a failure — it’s a sign you’re moving forward and a natural part of growing a business.

You’re hesitant to showcase your brand

If you feel a little hesitant whenever you share your website or hand out a business card, it’s probably time for a rethink. A strong brand should make you feel confident — not apologetic.

You’re blending into the crowd

In a competitive market, standing out is crucial. If your branding looks a little too similar to your competitors — or just isn’t memorable — it’s worth investing in a brand identity that’s unmistakably you.

You’re about to launch something new

New products, services, or a fresh direction can be the perfect reason to rebrand. It signals growth, evolution, and excitement — and gives you the chance to reposition yourself for future success.

What to Do Next

Recognising the need for a rebrand is just the first step. Here’s what to do about it:

Get clear on your purpose

Before diving into logos or colour palettes, define why you’re rebranding. What’s changed? Where are you heading? Having a strong strategy will keep everything aligned — and make sure your rebrand doesn’t just look good but feels right too. Unsure where to start? A brand strategy session with Chrissy is the perfect way to help you align your goals and find that clarity.

Understand your audience

Your brand should reflect who you want to attract. Knowing your ideal clients, their goals, challenges, and vibe will make creating messaging and visuals that truly resonate easier.

Refresh your visual identity

When it’s time to update your branding, a fresh visual identity is essential. Think logos, colours, fonts, and website design that can instantly communicate change. This isn’t about changing everything for the sake of it; it’s about creating visuals that feel aligned with your next chapter. Our design team at CLS can help if you need a little creative magic!

Refine your voice and messaging

Consistency across your brand’s voice, from your website to your socials, builds trust and makes you recognisable. Whether you’re bold, playful, sophisticated, or warm, it should shine through every part of your branding and content, and remain consistent across all platforms.

Roll it out thoughtfully

Remember, rebranding isn’t just about looking good. It’s about feeling aligned, confident, and ready for what’s next, and a smooth, thoughtful rollout will help you and your audience make the transition seamlessly. We often help clients craft a rollout plan that brings all the new branding elements together across websites, social media, email marketing, and printed materials with an actionable, strategic marketing plan in place.

Final Thoughts

Rebranding is a big step — but it’s also a fresh start. It’s your chance to realign with your purpose, reach new audiences, and step confidently into your business’s next era.

If you’re feeling that little tug that your brand doesn’t fit like it used to, trust it. Your brand should evolve with you, not hold you back.

And if you’re ready to explore what a rebrand could look like for your business, we’re here to help — from big-picture strategy to stunning design and marketing execution.

Ready to create a brand you’re proud to show the world? Book in a chat with Chrissy and the team at chrissy@creativelittlesoul.com.au to get started.

How to Manage Work While Travelling

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 10 May 2025. Posted in Articles.

What’s better than working from home? Working while traveling! You get to see the world all while continuing your work and making some moolah. While it sounds like a dream, working while traveling can be challenging, so keep reading for some tips on how to manage working while abroad.

Stick to a routine

A routine can be helpful for a number of reasons, but the best and most obvious is that it will provide structure and order to your life. A solid routine will allow you to fit in both work and play. You will feel more confident in your ability to get work done, and in turn not feel guilty for enjoying your time off.

Set focus blocks

Focus blocks are another element that will give your work day structure. They will also give you a solid finishing time. It can be hard to figure out a time to log off when you don’t have the constraints of a work day. Setting focus blocks give you something to work off and it may take some time to find a balance that works for you. Whether it is 2hrs working 2hrs free time, or 6hrs working, then 4hrs free time – you can figure out what works for you!

Choose the right location.

When I say the correct location, I don’t mean the country or travel location but rather the location where you choose to work. You want to work in a location with minimal distractions and a strong internet connection if you don’t have data. A well-lit cafe and noise-canceling headphones will be your friend! Even a shady spot on a secluded beach would be a dream, provided you can get some bars. To take this a step further, try your best to stay in a similar time zone to your boss and/or your clients. Staying in the same time zone makes sure you won’t miss deadlines and that you’ll be able to communicate easily with your clients.

Manage expectations

You are very likely going to need an adjustment period when changing your working locations, so be patient with yourself. You will get distracted and may not complete all your work. But to help this, try setting achievable goals! Don’t put too much on your plate immediately, and plan to know what is coming up in your work schedule. Hold yourself accountable and don’t blame a lack of structure for not completing your work.

Communicate

Communication is always key in every situation. So, don’t be shy – get talking. Communicate your hours with your clients and/or boss. Communicate what work you will be doing and what those on your team need to do, etc. You will save yourself a major headache if you open up lines of communication at the start of your travel endeavors.

Get the right gear

The right gear will make working on the go much less stressful. A solid power bank will come in handy more than you might realise. The previously mentioned noise canceling headphones are always useful, as is an extension cord for those hard-to-reach powerpoints. A universal adaptor is necessary and phone chargers of different descriptions are good to have in backup. Theftproof electronics cases are also a good idea as it is better to be safe than sorry about your hard work!

Find a travel-friendly job

A travel-friendly job will always make working overseas easier. Some jobs that are easy to do remotely are Freelance work in several fields, blogging, photography & photo editing. House sitting/ pet sitting is a great way to either get paid while away or at least not have to pay for accommodation!

Here is a perfect example of a travel friendly job – https://www.instagram.com/sunny.petsitter/?igsh=NW1rcGRhcTRucGIz&utm_source=qr

Media and marketing jobs are also perfect for working remotely. Our team works from home/ remotely so this means we can get tasks done outside of usual hours if there is ever an emergency. If you want to work with a team who’s here for you, get in contact and lets see what we can do for you!

Why Accountability Might Be the Missing Piece in Your Success Story(And why it needs to come from someone who knows how to hold you to a higher standard)

Written by Adele Wright on 4 May 2025. Posted in Articles, Small Business Advice.

We talk a lot about strategy, about planning, about goal setting – but here’s something we don’t talk about enough:
Accountability.

Not the casual check-in from a well-meaning friend. Not the “I’ll get to it eventually” post-it on your desk. The kind of accountability that actually moves the needle. Because here’s the truth: knowing what to do isn’t the hard part — it’s following through when life gets busy, self-doubt creeps in, or things feel hard.

That’s where real accountability comes in — and it’s a game changer. Energy exchange matters.

Why Accountability Might Be the Missing Piece

When you pay to work with someone—someone who understands your goals, knows what you’re capable of, and isn’t afraid to challenge you-you show up differently. You treat your time and your growth with more intention. You take the process seriously. There’s something powerful about investing in yourself in this way. You’re not just paying for advice — you’re creating an energetic contract: “I’m ready to take myself seriously.”

It’s a completely different energy than asking a friend to “check in on me” or relying on willpower alone. Friends mean well, but they’re not trained to help you untangle resistance, refine your strategy, or call you out when you’re playing small.

Real accountability is strategic, supportive, and transformative.

It helps you:

Reconnect with your why
Prioritise what matters most
Work through resistance and overwhelm
Take consistent, aligned action — even when you’re not feeling motivated

And perhaps most importantly? It reminds you that you don’t have to do it all alone. In business and life, support isn’t a weakness. It’s a power move, and accountability isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

So if you’ve been stuck in the cycle of “I’ll do it next week,” maybe it’s time to ask: What would change if I had someone to walk beside me, challenge me, and keep me focused on what I say matters most? and here at CLS we can help you answer that question – everything!

How to Attract Your First 100 Customers with Smart Marketing

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 26 April 2025. Posted in Marketing, Resources, Small Business Advice.

Starting a business is challenging, but attracting customers can be even more of a task. It is a little tricky getting your name out there and standing out amongst the multitude of businesses already operating. Of course it’s not impossible to get eyes on you, but if you need a little inspiration then keep reading to learn how you can attract new customers with smarter marketing.

Creating an irresistible offer

When it comes time to attract your first customers, the best way to entice them is with an epic deal or offer. Make it something that seems almost too good to be true, but don’t take it too far or prospective customers might think it’s a scam. This offer could be; 20% off discount code or a buy 1 get 1 free/ 2 for the price of 1, or buy 1 get 1 50% off, or 30 day money back guarantee etc. You can even trial a few different offers to see which one sticks the most. The one thing to be wary of is an offer that your new business can’t sustain. You don’t want to be majorly losing money to support these offers.

Using social media and local networking

Social media is quite a powerful tool these days, especially when it comes to selling and promoting. Being able to utilise these features across various platforms will do wonders for your exposure. It is also a fruitful idea to reach out to influencers. You can reach out to smaller creators as well as bigger names with the offer of free product/service in exchange for promotion. You’d be surprised how effective these influencers are at selling your products. You can also reach out to complimentary brands, meaning brands that are similar to yours but don’t sell the same things. Doing a product swap and review is a great way to get interested eyes on your business.

Running referral and loyalty programs

Loyalty programs are super useful to get your customers coming back for more. Whether you send them a discount code after their purchase or on their birthday, you offer a free item after they buy 5 e.g a coffee card, whatever it may be – your customers will love you for it! Referral programs are great too as it means your business will get exposure. Discounts for referring others is almost always successful as who doesn’t love a deal!

Leveraging email marketing

Of course I am going to suggest email marketing, are you surprised? Email marketing is the perfect way to communicate with your customers and clients. It also means you have a readily available database of interested parties, so why not use that to generate some sales? Sending direct marketing to customers also means you can look at data and see how interested those customers are. It is also a great way to make sure your customers/clients are in the know with any new developments in your business. If you need some help in this department, reach out and lets have a chat!

From Tourism to Teamwork: My Journey from Client to CLS Crew Member

Written by kim on 18 April 2025. Posted in Case Studies, Interviews.

In life, sometimes the most unexpected turns lead to the best opportunities. For me, what started as a quest for support during a challenging time in my tourism business turned into a remarkable career journey with Creative Little Soul (CLS). Today, as the Riverland Marketing Assistant, I reflect on how I went from being a client to becoming part of the team and how my background as a business owner now shapes the way I approach my work.

A Tourism Business Disrupted by the C word

Like many others, my tourism business faced significant disruption when the COVID pandemic hit. Tourism—a sector heavily reliant on travel and face-to-face interactions—was at a standstill, with border restrictions constantly changing, and suddenly, the future of business felt uncertain. In the face of these challenges, I sought support, and that’s when I found the Rural Business Support program.

Grant Support and How I Found Creative Little Solutions

Through the grant offering from Rural Business Support, I was given a lifeline to navigate the unpredictable landscape that the pandemic had created. It was this support that eventually led me to discover CLS. I signed up for their Email Marketing Class—a decision that not only helped me stay connected with my existing and new guests but also opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about marketing and business strategy.

The class was an invaluable resource, teaching me strategies I could implement to keep my tourism business relevant in a rapidly changing world. But it wasn’t just the skills I gained from that course—it was the connection I felt with the Chrissy, the founder, and her approach to helping small businesses thrive, the genuine care, and no BS approach to ‘getting sh*t done.’ She’s a strategy queen.

From Student to Team Member

Fast forward four years, and I’m proud to say that I’m now part of the CLS team as the Riverland Marketing Assistant. Joining CLS felt like a natural progression—a place where I could blend my passion for the Riverland, my experience as a business operator, and my newfound skills in digital marketing.

As someone who has walked the path of a business owner facing challenges and triumphs, I bring a unique perspective to the table, one that I believe strengthens our ability to help businesses in the region.

What I Bring to CLS: A Business Owner’s Perspective

Having operated a business in the tourism sector, I understand firsthand the highs and lows that come with running your own venture. I’ve been through the challenges of navigating uncertain times, managing cash flow, and understanding the importance of pivoting when things don’t go as planned.

At CLS, this experience allows me to approach marketing and business strategy with empathy and insight. I know what it’s like to juggle multiple roles and face the pressure of making decisions that impact whether you can put food on the dinner table! That’s why I’m passionate about helping other small businesses succeed and grow, just as I did.

The Power of Collaboration

One of the things that stands out to me most about my journey with CLS is the sense of community. When I was a client, I was struck by how supportive and approachable the CLS team was. Today, as a member of that team, I can see how much emphasis they place on collaboration, not just with clients but within the team itself.

At CLS, it’s not just about providing marketing services—it’s about building relationships and fostering a sense of partnership with every client. This collaborative approach allows businesses to feel like they are not just clients, but partners in their own growth. That’s a perspective I deeply value, having been in the shoes of a small business owner.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Me and the Riverland?

I’m filled with excitement as I look toward the future. With our inaugural free business networking event for Riverland businesses on the horizon, I truly believe it will be an incredible opportunity for connection, growth, and learning. Sole traders and small business owners, often isolated in their home offices, need a bridge to the wider business world. Gathering over a cup of coffee with like-minded individuals to share experiences, discuss challenges, and brainstorm ideas can provide the support and inspiration we all need.

Being part of the CLS team has allowed me to take what I learned from my own experiences as a business owner and apply it in a way that can help others. Whether it’s helping businesses with email marketing, social media, or brand strategy, I’m excited to be part of a team that empowers business owners to move forward with confidence and clarity.

If you’re a small business owner in the Riverland, I understand and I’m here to help. Whether you’re navigating digital marketing, finding your voice, or seeking guidance, the team at CLS and I are here to support you. Here’s to building a brighter future & a stronger Riverland, together!

Are you a Rvierland-based business? Come along to our Brewing With Success networking event! It’s FREE and you’re invited! No salesy stuff, but there are a few lucky door prizes, and a cuppa on us!
Hit the link to register!

Brewing with Success – FREE Networking Coffee and Catch Up | Facebook

5 Reasons You Should Never Stop Learning (Our Take-aways from the Mailchimp Fwd: Sydney Conference)

Written by Olivia Modellino on 14 April 2025. Posted in Articles, CLS News, Email Marketing.

At Creative Little Soul, we’re all about continuous learning. Why? Because we believe that learning should never stop – whether you’re levelling up as a person or building a business that thrives it’s all equally as important. We recently attended the Mailchimp Fwd: Sydney conference, and it was a seriously eye-opening experience that reminded us of just how important it is to keep growing, evolving, and staying curious.

So, if you’re wondering why you should always keep learning (and how it can benefit you), here are our top five reasons, sprinkled with some of our key takeaways from the event!

1. Embrace Change Like a Pro

Change is constant – especially in marketing, tech, and business. And if there’s one thing we learned at Fwd: Sydney, it’s that we’ve got to roll with the punches! The conference gave us insights on everything from next-level email marketing tactics to automation tricks. These tools are changing fast, and staying up-to-date ensures you’re never caught off guard.

Whether you’re a business owner or an individual, staying curious and open to learning means you can adapt to new challenges and opportunities, keeping you relevant and ahead of the curve.

2. Unleash Your Inner Creative Genius

Learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about getting those creative juices flowing! One of the coolest things we took away from Fwd:Sydney was how blending creativity with tech can result in some seriously mind-blowing campaigns. Personalisation, automation, and data can all come together in the most creative ways, and it’s exciting to see what’s possible.

For business owners, learning new skills in design, data analysis, or creative strategy can open up a whole new world of possibilities. Or for our clients, building a solid and continuously evolving strategy to stay up to date with emerging trends and technologies makes the world of difference! The more you learn, the more creative you can get, and the more impactful your marketing will be!

3. Stay Ahead of the Competition

There’s always someone learning and innovating in your industry – and so should you! One of the biggest takeaways from Fwd:Sydney was the growing importance of automation in marketing. Mailchimp shared some amazing tips on how to make the most of it, and let’s just say we’re all about getting smarter, and maximising your business’ potential.

When you make a habit of continuous learning, you’re not only keeping up—you’re leading the pack. Whether you’re picking up new marketing tricks or discovering fresh ways to reach your audience, learning helps you stay competitive and stand out in the crowd.

4. Boost Your Confidence (Yes, Really!)

The more you know, the more confident you become. And when you’re confident, you make better decisions. At Fwd:Sydney, we felt like we were on top of the world after soaking up so much knowledge! Whether it was confirming we’re on the ball with our use of data and campaign creation, or learning new and powerful insights from industry experts, every bit of learning boosted our confidence—and it felt great!

For business owners, having that solid foundation of knowledge means you can trust your instincts and make decisions with confidence. It also helps you lead your team with trust and clarity, which always translates to success.

5. Create Growth That Lasts

Learning isn’t just about keeping up with trends; it’s about building a foundation for long-term growth. At Fwd:Sydney, the focus wasn’t just on short-term wins, but on how to create strategies that will keep working for you as your business evolves. When you keep learning, you’re setting yourself up for success that’s sustainable.

For individuals, this could mean growing in your career. For business owners, it’s about creating a future-proof brand that keeps evolving with the times. Learning today leads to bigger, better, and more exciting opportunities down the road!

How Can You Keep Learning?

If you’re ready to start or keep learning (and we know you are), here’s how to get started:

Hit up conferences and events – Like we did with Mailchimp Fwd:sydney! It’s a great way to hear from the pros, stay on top of trends and emerging technologies, and even give you a confidence boost that you’re heading in the right direction.
Read and stay curious – Subscribe to blogs, newsletters, or books that inspire you and help you learn more about your industry.
Take online courses or workshops – There’s an endless amount of knowledge out there, and you can learn at your own pace.
Connect with your network – Chat with fellow business owners, marketers, or creatives. You’d be surprised what you can learn just by sharing ideas!

Learning is at the heart of everything we do. It fuels our creativity, keeps us motivated, and ensures we’re always ready to tackle new challenges. But here’s the best part—it’s not just about us; it’s about sharing that knowledge to help you grow, too! If you’re ready to level up your skills and strategy, book a call with Chrissy today. Whether you’re looking for business and personal growth or want to brainstorm ideas on how we can help your business thrive, we’ve got your back. Reach out to Chrissy at chrissy@creativelittlesoul.com.au and let’s get started!

Pinterest Predicts 2025: The Trends Shaping Your Marketing Strategy

Written by Olivia Modellino on 8 April 2025. Posted in Articles, Resources.

Have you ever thought about how Pinterest could be a game-changer for your marketing strategy? We recently tuned into the 2025 Pinterest Predicts webinar to get the inside scoop on trends set to shape social media this year. Some of them are surprising, but they’re all backed by data—and they offer a huge opportunity to connect with your audience in fresh, creative ways. Keep reading to find out how you can use Pinterest Predicts 2025 to elevate your brand and stay ahead of the competition.

The Power of Pinterest

In today’s fast-moving digital world, keeping up with trends isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Pinterest Predicts 2025 gives businesses a powerful advantage by highlighting emerging consumer interests before they explode into the mainstream. Using billions of data points and visual search technology, Pinterest identifies trends with remarkable accuracy. And unlike fleeting social media fads, Pinterest trends have serious staying power—eight out of ten trends predicted for 2024 continued growing in searches, saves, and shopping throughout the year. That means brands can confidently integrate these trends into their marketing strategies, knowing they’re investing in ideas with real influence.

By tapping into Pinterest Predicts 2025, your business can create content, products, and branding that align with what people are actively searching for—giving you a head start on what’s next.

The Trends

Here are the 2025 trends to watch—and how you can incorporate them into your marketing and brand activations:

Cherry Coded – Dark, sweet, and bold—cherry-inspired aesthetics will be everywhere in beauty, fashion, and food. Think cherry-infused cocktails, deep red colour palettes, and rich, moody branding.

Castle Core – Medieval grandeur is back in a big way, from gothic fashion to castle-inspired home decor. Think Victorian silhouettes, lace fabrics, gothic designs, and history-themed activations.

Terra Futerra – Sustainability meets style as Gen Z and Boomers embrace eco-conscious living. Think upcycled collections, sustainable fashion, green-thumb gardening aesthetics, and immersive outdoor experiences.

Sea Witchery – Moody, mystical, and mermaid-inspired aesthetics are making waves. Think siren-inspired beauty and fashion, beachside retreats, and enchanting, otherworldly visual campaigns.

Mix & Maximalist – More is more in 2025! Layering bold patterns, textures, and colours takes center stage. Think eclectic interior styling, vibrant table settings, and energetic, playful aesthetics tailored to your brand.

Fisherman Aesthetic – A relaxed, maritime vibe is influencing fashion, home decor, and lifestyle choices. Think nautical stripes, oceanic motifs, and seafaring-inspired designs.

Rococo Revival – Opulence and elegance return with Rococo-inspired aesthetics in fashion, beauty, and dining. Think soft, feminine tones, extravagant event styling, and period-inspired immersive experiences.

Nesting Parties – The modern baby shower is evolving into a celebration of new parents. Think practical gifting (like gift cards and registries), relatable parenthood content, and community-driven events.

Peak Travel – Adventure seekers are heading for the mountains instead of the cities. Think winter getaways, high-altitude escapes, adventure-focused travel incentives, and outdoor brand experiences.

How to Activate Pinterest Trends for Your Business

Pinterest trends aren’t just about inspiration—they’re about action. Here’s how you can integrate them into your marketing strategy:

Choose the Right Trends: Not every trend will fit your brand, so focus on the ones that align with your audience and products.
Put Your Own Spin on It: Adapt a trend to your brand’s unique voice and offerings.
Target Smartly: Use Pinterest’s ad tools to connect with the right consumers at the right time.
Bring Trends into the Real World: Incorporate trending aesthetics into your packaging, physical spaces, and events.
Align Product Launches with Trends: Use trends as inspiration for new product drops and seasonal campaigns.
Own a Trend: Brands can become official trend sponsors, unlocking exclusive marketing perks and Pinterest-backed co-marketing opportunities.

If you’re serious about taking your marketing to the next level, Pinterest Predicts 2025 is full of opportunities waiting to be tapped. Whether you’re a fashion brand embracing Rococo Revival, a restaurant experimenting with maximalist menus, or a travel company promoting off-the-grid adventures, getting ahead of these trends can set you up for long-term success.

Let’s Make Pinterest Work for You

Want to make the most of Pinterest trends? Whether you’re looking to refine your Pinterest strategy or start fresh on the platform, our team at CLS is here to help. Book a chat with Chrissy today at chrissy@creativelittlesoul.com.au and let’s get started!

90 Days on Threads: What I’ve Learned (And Why You Should Be Using It Too)

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 27 March 2025. Posted in Resources, Social Media.

It’s been 90 days since I decided to test drive Threads as part of my personal entrepreneur brand, linked to my Instagram. What started as curiosity has turned into a consistent content strategy — and honestly, I’m impressed. Threads may be the new kid on the block, but it’s already proving to be a powerful tool for connection, conversation, and visibility.

Here’s what I’ve learned from 3 months of consistent posting, experimenting, and engaging.

What Works on Threads

1. Ask Questions — and Don’t Be Afraid of the Spicy Ones

Threads loves a good question. The more open-ended, thought-provoking, or even controversial it is, the better it performs. People want to weigh in, and Threads’ layout makes it easy to join the conversation.

2. Engagement > Everything

The engagement rate on Threads is wildly high. The algorithm is clearly built to amplify active users — the more you reply, repost, and engage with others, the more you’re seen. It’s one of the few platforms right now where organic reach still thrives.

3. Treat Your Threads Like SEO

Think of Threads like mini blog posts — use keywords the way you would in SEO. It helps people discover your content, and ensures you’re part of conversations that matter. Also we don’t do hashtags on threads it’s a no go. In fact you look silly using them.

4. Find Your Tribe

The vibe on Threads is still fresh and authentic. There’s a strong sense of community building, especially among creatives, founders, and small biz owners. If you’re consistent and show up genuinely, you’ll quickly find your people. I have a discovery call with a lady on Friday who’s just starting out in agency land and I’ve also connected with other amazing women in PR and marketing across the globe and the chronic illness and disability community are very active and are on threads. Love this for me.

5. Conversations Over Performances

Unlike other platforms where curated content rules, Threads feels more like a group chat with value. People are here to talk, not just broadcast. The conversations I’ve had here have led to real connections, DMs, and even business opportunities.

My 90-Day Stats on Threads

Now for the juicy bit — here’s what 90 days on the platform has delivered:

366 followers (this may seem low, but just wait)
59.7k total views
1,621 interactions
- 715 replies
- 899 likes
- 4 reposts
- 3 quotes

To compare, I currently have 2,297 followers on Instagram, and yet in the past 30 days Threads alone has brought in 9.3k views. That’s huge organic reach from a brand-new app.

Final Thoughts: Should You Be Using Threads?

If you’re a business owner, creator, coach, or founder — the answer is yes. Threads has quickly become one of the most genuine and growth-friendly platforms I’ve used in a long time. It’s low-lift, high-impact, and driven by conversation rather than curation.

The best part? You don’t need a massive following to get seen. You just need to show up, ask great questions, share your thoughts, and engage like a real human.

Thinking of jumping on Threads but not sure where to start?
Let’s chat. I love helping entrepreneurs and brands craft bold, engaging content strategies across emerging platforms.

3 Email Design Trends to Elevate Your Email Marketing in 2025

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 25 March 2025. Posted in Email Marketing.

Email marketing continues to be one of the most powerful tools for brands to engage their audience, drive sales, and nurture relationships. But as inboxes get more crowded, standing out requires more than just a compelling subject line—it demands innovative email design. In 2025, we’re seeing exciting new trends that blend creativity with functionality to maximise engagement. Let’s dive into three of the biggest email design trends shaping the future of email marketing.

1. Dark Mode Optimisation

Dark mode has been around for a while, but in 2025, it’s a must-have for email marketers. With more users preferring dark mode on their devices, emails that aren’t optimised can appear distorted, making them difficult to read or visually unappealing.

How to Optimise for Dark Mode:

Use transparent images instead of ones with white backgrounds to ensure they blend seamlessly.
Opt for high-contrast colours that work well in both light and dark modes.
Test your emails in different email clients to ensure readability and consistency and devices.

By designing with dark mode in mind, you’re creating an improved experience for users, increasing readability, and making your emails feel modern and up-to-date.

2. Interactive & Gamified Elements

People love interactive content, and email is no exception. Adding gamification and interactive elements increases engagement and encourages recipients to spend more time with your content.

Ideas for Interactive Emails:

Spin-to-win discounts or scratch-off promotions for special deals. Think Temu when they want you to engage and who doesn’t love spinning that wheel. Instant dopamine hit, hello!
Polls or quizzes that allow users to interact directly within the email.
Accordion menus or clickable tabs to reduce email length and keep content organized.

These elements create a mini user experience within the email itself, making it more engaging and fun while also driving conversions.

3. Minimalist, Visual-First Designs

In 2025, less is more when it comes to email design. With inboxes flooded with promotional content, clean and visually appealing emails grab attention faster and improve readability.

Key Aspects of Minimalist Email Design:

Short, impactful copy with a clear and concise message.
High-quality images or GIFs that convey the message without too much text.
Whitespace and clean layouts to improve scannability and avoid clutter.

This trend ensures emails are easy to digest, visually appealing, and optimized for mobile devices, where users tend to skim rather than read lengthy content.

Final Thoughts

Email marketing in 2025 is all about enhancing user experience, making emails more engaging, accessible, and visually captivating. By embracing dark mode optimization, interactive elements, and minimalist designs, brands can stay ahead of the curve and create emails that truly stand out in the inbox.

Ready to level up your email marketing strategy? Start implementing these trends today and watch your engagement soar!

Need help crafting high-performing emails? Get in touch with us!

5 Reasons Your Social Media Engagement is Dropping (And How to Fix It!)

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 12 March 2025. Posted in Marketing, Social Media.

Social media used to be booming for your business—likes, shares, comments… but now Crickets? If your engagement is dropping, don’t panic. It’s happening to a lot of brands, but the good news? It’s fixable.

Let’s dive into the top five reasons your engagement might be declining—and how you can turn things around fast.

1. You’re Posting the Same Old Content
The Problem: If you’ve been using the same type of posts for months (or years!), your audience is bored. The algorithm favours fresh, engaging content, and if you’re not evolving, your reach will shrink.

The Fix:? Mix it up! Rotate between reels, carousels, behind-the-scenes, polls, UGC (user-generated content), and interactive stories. Leverage video—Reels and TikToks get way more engagement than static posts. Stop just promoting—start educating, entertaining, or inspiring your audience.

Need help with fresh content ideas? Let’s build a content plan that actually gets results!

2. You’re Ignoring Engagement (or Only Focusing on Vanity Metrics)
The Problem: Social media isn’t just a broadcast—it’s a conversation. If you’re only posting and not interacting, your audience will lose interest fast.

The Fix:? Respond to EVERY comment and DM—the more engagement you spark, the more the algorithm boosts your post. Ask open-ended questions to get your audience talking. Jump into trending topics and collaborate with influencers or partners.

Don’t have time to manage engagement? Our team can handle your social media interactions and keep your audience engaged!

3. The Algorithm Has Changed (And You Haven’t Adjusted)
The Problem: Social media platforms constantly update their algorithms, and what worked last year won’t cut it today. If your engagement is dropping, you might be playing by old rules.

The Fix:? Post at optimal times (when your audience is most active). Use hashtags strategically—not just the most popular ones, but niche-specific hashtags. Encourage saves & shares—these signals tell the algorithm your content is valuable. Test new formats—Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook push new features (like Reels, Threads, and Notes). Be an early adopter to gain extra reach!

Not sure how to keep up? Let us track the latest trends and optimize your content for you!

4. You’re Not Posting Consistently (or You’re Overposting)
The Problem: If you ghost your audience for weeks, they forget about you. But posting too much? That can overwhelm them.

The Fix:? Find your sweet spot—for most businesses, 3-5 quality posts per week is ideal. Use a content calendar to plan and stay consistent. Automate where possible—but keep engagement authentic.

Need help with a posting schedule? We create custom content calendars that drive engagement and growth!

5. You’re Not Giving People a Reason to Engage
The Problem: If your content isn’t valuable, relatable, or share-worthy, people won’t engage with it. Social media is flooded with content—so why should they stop scrolling for yours?

The Fix:? Give value first—educate, entertain, or inspire your audience. Use interactive elements—polls, Q&As, and contests work wonders. Add strong calls to action (CTAs)—”Double tap if you agree!,” “Tag a friend who needs this,” “Comment below with your thoughts.”

We specialise in crafting social content that stops the scroll. Let’s get your engagement back on track!

Let’s Fix Your Social Media Engagement!

If your engagement is dropping, don’t waste months trying to figure it out on your own. A strategic, data-driven approach can revive your brand’s presence and boost your sales.

Let’s chat! If you’re ready to reignite your social media, book a free strategy session with our team today!

Key marketing acronyms and terms blog

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 26 February 2025. Posted in Resources.

In the world of marketing, there are stacks of acronyms that are used to make life easier. But if you are someone who is not privy to their meaning, it can slow down your work day. So, I have made it easy for you and created a short list of some of the most important and widely used marketing terms!

BR – Bounce Rate: This relates to email marketing when an email never finds the recipient’s inbox. A high bounce rate means that your database is out of date.

CR—Conversion Rate: This is the percentage of people who have followed through and completed the desired action on your webpage, such as clicking a link or filling out a form. Imagine that you have converted your page viewer into a customer.

EDM—Electronic Direct Mail: A marketing campaign sent to a database via email. It is an effective way to communicate with your subscribers and supports marketing initiatives.

CTA—Call to Action: This can be a button, image, or web link that calls for your webpage/edm viewer to take action, such as making a booking or subscribing.

CTR—Clickthrough Rate: This rate relates to the percentage of your audience that moves sequentially through your marketing campaign. It is calculated as the total number of clicks ÷ number of opportunities for a click.

KPI—Key Performance Indicator: KPIs measure the performance of certain business activities. They can be used to track progress and determine the success of marketing campaigns.

SEO—Search Engine Optimisation: By utilising SEO, your business will be more visible when people are searching for your brand or the service you provide. You can improve SEO by tagging, including keywords, creating titles, and more to help search engines discover your website and content.

MTD—Month to Date: This indicates the time period from the start of the month to the current date.

YTD—Year to Date: This indicates the time period from the start of the year to the current date.

ROI – Return on Investment: This term indicates the potential profit of an investment or business action. The calculation is gain from the investment – the cost of investment ÷ cost of investment.

UX—User Experience: This relates to the customer’s experience with your brand from start to finish. It includes their experience with your website and content, as well as their following/purchase.

WOM—Word of Mouth: This refers to customers talking about your business in person. It is a great way for your brand to gain authenticity and convert people into customers.

I hope that by defining these key terms, you have learned a little more about the wonderful world of marketing!

New Year, New Goals: Why I Love the Start of the Year

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 12 February 2025. Posted in Articles, Marketing.

There’s something magical about the beginning of a new year. It’s a blank slate filled with fresh opportunities, new strategies, and ambitious goals. For me, it’s not just about moving forward—it’s also a time to reflect on the past year. I dive deep into what worked, what didn’t, and what I want to change as I plan for the future.

Every January, I map out marketing plans and business strategies for all of my brands and companies. But it’s not just about work—I also take this time to set personal goals and figure out what I want to achieve in my own life.

This year feels particularly special because, after a few challenging years with my MS treatments, things are finally looking up. If my upcoming MRI is clear, it will mean my MS is in a remitting stage. That would mean no medication for the next few years and only seeing my neurologist if something new arises.

Of course, MS doesn’t just disappear. My old symptoms, like blindness and muscle weakness, won’t return, but I’m focused on doing everything I can to help my body perform at its best. And that’s just one part of what’s making this year feel so full of promise.

Big Plans on the Horizon

This year, I’m incredibly excited to finally finish my book, Beyond the Mirror Ball. It’s so much more than just a book—it’s a project that’s been close to my heart for a long time, and I can’t wait to share it with all of you.

But that’s just the beginning. We’re working on some amazing events this year, from small in-venue activations to the massive Yia Sou Greek Festival in Adelaide, which draws in 20,000 people a day! Our team is diving into everything from menus and cookbooks to club events and beyond. We love the variety of tasks we get to tackle, and we’re also committed to continuous learning, with lots of training on the agenda.

Why I’ll Always Preach Email Marketing

One thing I’ll never stop championing is email marketing. The results we see for our clients (and our own business) are undeniable. Over Christmas, we helped one small business generate $20K in gift voucher sales in just two weeks. For an e-commerce brand, a single email campaign brought in 100 orders in under 1. 5 hours. And for the second year in a row, we’ve had the privilege of marketing and promoting a 5,000-person boutique music festival. We’re already signed on to do it next year again too.

These are just a few examples, but they highlight why I’m so passionate about what we do. I honestly can’t imagine going back to work for someone else. After nearly 12 years of Creative Little Soul, I’ve gotten used to not commuting—and let’s be real, I’m not giving up my no-shoes lifestyle anytime soon! ?

Let’s Work Together!

We do have a few spots available for upcoming projects, but since we work months in advance to ensure maximum lead time and exposure, you’ll want to get in touch soon if you’re interested. I’m already booked for Summer 2026 and NYE events, so when I say people book us well in advance, I’m not just tooting my own horn.

And speaking of planning ahead—one of my biggest passions is travel! I’m always looking for an excuse to visit my babies in Geelong, catch up with my brother at his restaurant, or head to the Riverland (especially in winter!). I love exploring other capitals too. If you’re interested in meeting face-to-face for coaching, would like me to speak at an event, or mentor your management team, get in touch. I’ve got a passport and I’m ready to use it! ??

If you’re ready to chat about how we can support your business or work together on an upcoming project, reach out! Let’s make this year your most successful yet.

P.S. Did I mention I love my job? ?

Chrissy

Top Marketing Tools for Small Business Owners

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 11 February 2025. Posted in Marketing, Resources, Small Business Advice.

When it comes to utilising specific marketing tools, there are some that you will find come in handy more than others. Especially as a small business owner, you may not need all the fancy and expensive marketing tools, but it is always good to know you have options.

Let’s start with one of the best marketing tools, Canva, because without this guy, your visual marketing will probably suffer. Canva is a great platform, you can create visuals, logos, videos, buttons, stories, animations and much more. Essentially, you can use Canva to create images for all platforms. Now, Canva is great as they have both free and paid versions, when using the free version of Canva you have access to quite a lot of content, storage, and templates. When you are starting your marketing journey creating a solid logo and social media content is a good place to start and Canva free can help with that. However, once you have established a visual identity for your brand you may want to expand a little more and this is where the pro version of Canva comes into play. The pro version gives you access to more than double the assets that Canva free does, along with 1TB of cloud storage (compared to a sad 5GB with the free version), customer support, the ability to plan and schedule social media content and much more. Now, it may seem that the paid option is loads better (it is) but! That doesn’t mean you have to invest in that right away, see how you go with the free version and have a play before deciding to fork out some cash.

Next up we have google analytics vs google analytics 360. Not only does the price point set these two apart, but other differences lie in data sampling, limits of data, integrations, customisation and support. Google analytics is totally free and has a 14 month data retention, it tracks the traffic to your website as well as the engagement rate with your content. This info then allows you to have more data drive optimisation and user experience on your website leading to higher rates of conversion. Google analytics 360 starts off at a whopping $50,000 a year. If you’ve just started your small business, I doubt you have a spare $50,000 lying around. But just in case you do, google analytics 360 integrates offline and online data, stores data for up to 50 months, allows for advanced customisation, a higher data processing limit and also grants you access to highly skilled support specialists. As good as google analytics 360 sounds, I would once again suggest starting with the free version and assessing your need for a more robust option later down the track.

Lastly, we can discuss a marketing tool to use for all things social media. We will be comparing the free option Simply measured vs Sprout social. Simply measured is free and gives very comprehensive reports and analysis for X, Facebook, and Instagram, it also provides info on social traffic as well as the source of social traffic. Furthermore, it provides customer service reports, content analysis, competitive analysis, insight reports, user reports and page reports for the aforementioned social media platforms. Sprout social pricing starts at $249 a month, and offers more extensive analysis. You can use interactive data reports to view info from a new perspective, see the difference between paid and organic performance of content, be provided profile performance reports, tag reports, post performance reports, network reports, competitor reports, essentially providing quantitative as well as contextual data to improve your overall social media marketing. Sprout social does a lot more than this too so if you are interested I would suggest further independent research as this is one I would maybe dish out the cash for. Social media is king when it comes to increasing reach, conversion and ROI, so if the free marketing tools aren’t cutting it then it’s time to reassess your finances and see what you can do to be able to pay a little more for a much bigger return.

If this blog just gave you a massive headache and left you more confused than before about which marketing tools are the best to use for your small business, we got you. Our team at Creative Little Soul can handle the reporting and analytical side of things for you! Get in touch today to see how we can help your small business expand.

My 5 favourite things about working for CLS

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 30 January 2025. Posted in CLS News, Interviews.

In this day and age it is common for people to hate their jobs, or at the very least not enjoy having to schlep to and from work each day. My friends complain of annoying coworkers, office drama, public transport cancellations, and other ever-so-irritating issues. While I can understand these issues, I simply can’t relate in my current role here at CLS. So to make you all just a little jealous, here are my 5 favourite things about working for Creative Little Soul.

It’s a work-from-home role

Working from home, for me, is a dream! I can wake up easy, and not have to instantly check my transport timetable or jump out of bed and start choosing an outfit. While wearing my comfortable clothes I can casually make a coffee and log into my emails ahead of starting work to have an idea of what I’ll be working on. I also get to spend time with my pets which is just an added bonus. Beside the creature comfort aspects of working from home, I also don’t have to deal with noisy environments or make small talk with my coworkers.

Strong team communication

Although I don’t have to make small talk with them, our team does communicate a lot throughout the day. We are never more than a phone call or dm away, and we never leave each other hanging. We are all swift repliers so we don’t often hold each other up by not responding in time. We have a group chat in which we discuss all sorts but also DM each other to see what’s being done and whether something else needs to be started. These open communication lines make it much easier to get things done without resistance.

Different work every day

While most of my work relates to the same thing, it differs daily! One day, I’m creating e-flyers, and the next, I’m writing event copy or drafting for socials; I write blogs create reports, and make events. Sometimes, all of these things get done in one day! I am super grateful that I don’t have to do the same tedious work each day. I find all the different aspects of my role exciting and have learned a lot while doing it!

The team helps each other out

Not only does our team have epic communication, but we are always there to help each other out. I always message any of the girls to give me a hand or explain something to me. If my plate looks full, I’m never worried about asking someone else to complete a task for me, which goes both ways! Chrissy is also great at giving extra advice or feedback in a positive way which can’t be said for all bosses.

Extraordinary events & working for a variety of clients

I have been able to be part of such exciting event production, promotion, and marketing in my role with CLS. I have gained behind-the-scenes perspectives on so many marketing channels and learned about so many different clients’ needs and marketing approaches. It has given me insight and experience that has proven helpful real-world scenarios. It is also fun to feel as if you have a little secret that no one knows yet, ie exciting events that must be kept a little hush-hush.

Creative Little Soul is such an excellent company, and while you might not be able to join our team (sad, I know) we would love to work with you! So reach out, and let’s see what is possible!

The Best New Year Email Subject Lines to Boost Open Rates

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 15 January 2025. Posted in Email Marketing.

The New Year is the perfect opportunity to engage with your audience! People are often their most motivated and excited for a fresh start at the beginning of the year. Crafting New Year-themed email subject lines will pique the interest of your clients and boost open rates. Let’s explore some options that we can implement into your subsequent email marketing campaigns!

Starting with some subject lines that create a sense of urgency or scarcity and will inspire your clients to take quick action –

“Last Chance for New Year Savings!”
“Start the Year Right – 50% Off Ends Tonight!”
“New Year, New Deals! ? Don’t Miss Out!”
“Final Countdown to New Year Discounts – Shop Now!”
“Kick Off 2024 with 24-Hour Flash Sales! ?”

These lines will likely encourage your clients to embrace the New Year spirit of a fresh start and self-improvement.

“Your Resolution Starter Kit is Here ?”
“New Year, New You – Discover Our Top Picks for 2024!”
“2024 Goals? We’ve Got You Covered!”
“Make 2024 Your Best Year Yet with These Must-Haves!”
“Start Fresh with These Exclusive New Year Offers!”

You can also use excitement and optimism to entice your clients.

“Happy New Year! Time to Treat Yourself!”
“Happy 2024! Here’s a Gift to Kick Off the Year!”
“Celebrate the New Year with Something Special!”
“Cheers to New Beginnings – And Special Offers!”
“Hello, 2024! Exclusive Deals Just for You ?”

Emojis are an easy way to make your subject lines more visually engaging and stand out in an inbox.

“2024 Is Here – Let’s Celebrate Together! ?”
“? Ring in the New Year with a Bang! ?”
“Time to Shine in 2024 ? – Special Offers Inside!”
“New Year, New Savings ?”
“? Ready for a Fresh Start? Here’s a New Year Gift for You! ?”

Finally, utilise the post-holiday excitement with either sales or content that feels fresh and relevant.

“Didn’t Get What You Wanted? Here’s a New Year Treat!”
“Recover from the Holidays with These Deals!”
“Time to Refresh Your Routine – New Year Essentials!”
“Holiday Clearance – New Year Bargains Just for You!”
“Post-Holiday Savings You’ll Love! ?”

Incorporating these New Year-themed subject lines will help increase engagement, open rates, and click-through rates. Reach out to us and let us know if you’d like to incorporate one of these lines into your next campaign. It isn’t too early to start planning your New Year’s campaigns and sales; if you’re feeling lost, let us help you!

How to Boost Your Social Media Presence in the New Year!

Written by Chrissy Symeonakis on 5 January 2025. Posted in Social Media.

The New Year brings new opportunities, one such opportunity being positive growth in your social media channels. But how can you achieve this? Well, by revamping your social media strategy, of course! With the right approach, you will see increased engagement, growth in follower count, and improved visibility across all platforms. So, if this sounds like something your business would benefit from, keep reading and discover some tips on boosting your social media presence.

1. Set Clear Goals and KPIs

Begin by thinking about what success looks like for you. Do you want more followers, better engagement, and increased site traffic? Whatever it may be, make sure it is a SMART goal (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound)
Figure out which KPIs matter most to you. Is it likes, shares, comments, ctr, conversion or others? Whichever you decide, be sure to track them regularly.

2. Refresh Your Content Strategy

2025 will be the perfect time to analyse what worked and what didn’t in 2024. Look at your analytics and see what content yielded the most engagement.
Create/Update your content calendar and ensure it includes mixed media i.e a combination of videos, images, and user-generated content.
If you haven’t tried them already – try new content creation in the form of TikToks or LinkedIn stories.

3. Engage with Your Audience

We often need to remember that engagement goes both ways. For 2025, make it a priority to reply to comments, direct messages, and mentions. You can show extra appreciation to your loyal followers, encouraging them to share your brand with others.
Encourage engagement by posting interactive content like quizzes, polls, Q&A, and giveaways. Your audience will feel more connected with your content, and thus engagement will increase.

4. Collaborate with Influencers and like-minded brands

It is clear by now that influencer marketing is one of the most effective tools for expanding reach. Find influencers that align with your brand and values, and see how quickly their audience becomes part of yours.
A partnership with a brand like yours may seem like a bad idea, but it can expose you to new audiences that are already interested! Co-hosting a giveaway or using a share-for-share approach will bring new customers and get your social media attention.

5. Use Paid Advertising

There is only so much organic reach you can settle for, especially on platforms like Facebook & Instagram. So, it is wise to invest in paid advertising or boosting a high-quality piece of content. This will both amplify your message & allow it to reach new targeted demographics.
Use the New Year to your advantage and create seasonal ad campaigns focusing on ‘fresh starts’, ‘new goals’, ‘new beginnings’ etc. These ads draw attention to your content and will boost your engagement.

6. Schedule Regular Posting and Be Consistent

Consistency is key to building a strong social media presence. Create a content calendar that will assist you in maintaining a regular posting schedule.
META allows you to schedule content, so don’t forget to utilise it.

If this info seems a little overwhelming for you, contact us! CLS has numerous packages to help increase your brand’s visibility and take some of the work off your plate. So don’t waste another minute; reach out now!