In business, strategy is everything. It’s the difference between running in circles and running ahead of the competition. But here’s the catch, building and executing a winning strategy requires more than just a good idea. It takes time, expertise, and the right team to bring it to life.
That’s where a creative all-services agency steps in.
You don’t have to do it alone.
Running a business can sometimes feel like spinning a dozen plates at once- marketing, branding, sales, customer service, product development… and the list goes on. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re trying to master skills outside your zone of expertise.
Partnering with an all-services agency means you don’t have to carry the weight on your own. You gain a dedicated team of strategists, designers, marketers, copywriters, and digital specialists who work together to move your business forward.
Tap into a team of experts (without hiring them all yourself)
The beauty of working with a full-service agency is that you instantly access a deep pool of talent—without having to hire, train, and manage each person yourself.
Whether you need:
A standout brand identity
A smart, data-driven marketing strategy
Social media campaigns that connect with your audience
Email marketing automation that actually works
A website that converts
You have a team of experts who already know the tools, trends, and techniques to make it happen.
Collaboration breeds better results
One of the biggest advantages of an all-services agency is collaboration. Instead of juggling separate freelancers, contractors, or vendors (and hoping their work aligns), you have a single, cohesive team working together toward the same vision.
Designers work with marketers to ensure visuals align with messaging. Strategists collaborate with content creators to make sure campaigns support your bigger business goals. Every project benefits from multiple perspectives—without the chaos.
Strategy + execution, all under one roof.
An agency doesn’t just help you create a strategy; they help you execute it. That means you get:
A plan that aligns with your goals
The creative assets to bring it to life
Ongoing adjustments based on results
It’s a streamlined approach that keeps your business moving forward without bottlenecks.
How Creative Little Soul can help you own the festive season
At Creative Little Soul, we work with businesses 6–12 months in advance to craft campaigns that sell out events and drive seasonal revenue.
From strategy to execution, we can help with:
Social media campaigns that create buzz
Email marketing to warm up your audience
Ticketing strategies that sell out events early
Seasonal graphics, menus, and promotional content
Don’t wait until December
By the time the Christmas carols hit the shopping centres, it’s too late to build a campaign that works.
The venues that sell out NYE, the brands that crush their Christmas sales—they’re locking things in now.
It might feel like you only just packed away the tinsel and party poppers, but here’s the truth: Christmas and New Year’s Eve marketing waits for no one.
The venues that sell out, the brands that crush their sales targets, and the businesses that make the most of the festive season all have one thing in common…they start planning early.
If you haven’t started yet, now is the time.
Why early planning matters for festive campaigns
1. Prime Dates Book Out—Fast
From DJ bookings to corporate functions to community events, the best talent and venues lock in months ahead. If your marketing isn’t live early, you’re already behind competitors who have secured the spotlight (and the customers).
2. Your audiences are already planning
Consumers are more organised than ever, especially around the holidays. Office managers are booking Christmas parties, families are organising catch-ups, and friends are choosing their NYE plans right now. If your offer isn’t front and centre yet, you risk missing out.
3. Marketing channels need lead time
It’s not just about creating an ad or a post. Successful seasonal marketing involves:
Building anticipation through social media
Running early-bird campaigns
Setting up targeted email marketing
Booking ad placements while costs are still competitive
Leave it too late, and you’ll be rushing—competing in a crowded space with higher ad costs and less visibility.
The advantage of getting in early
Early planning gives you:
Better Creative – No rushed graphics or last-minute messaging.
Stronger Campaign Flow – A chance to build hype with teaser campaigns and early bird offers.
Bigger Results – More time to sell tickets, fill bookings, and sell products.
How Creative Little Soul Can Help You Own the Festive Season
At Creative Little Soul, we work with businesses 6–12 months in advance to craft campaigns that sell out events and drive seasonal revenue.
From strategy to execution, we can help with:
Social media campaigns that create buzz
Email marketing to warm up your audience
Ticketing strategies that sell out events early
Seasonal graphics, menus, and promotional content
Don’t Wait Until December
By the time the Christmas carols hit the shopping centres, it’s too late to build a campaign that works.
The venues that sell out NYE, the brands that crush their Christmas sales—they’re locking things in now. Make sure you’re ahead of the game this year and give your business the best chance of soaring through the festive season.
Ready to make this festive season your best yet? Let’s get your campaign locked in before the competition does.Book in a quick chat now and let’s see how we can help you pull off your best event yet!
As CLS continues to expand, so does our incredible team — and we’re thrilled to introduce our newest addition, Liv! Joining us as our Marketing and Events Assistant, Liv brings a fresh wave of skill, creativity, and energy to the crew. Keep reading to get to know Liv, her journey so far, and what she’s bringing to the team here at Creative Little Soul.
What is your role at Creative Little Soul?
Marketing and Events Assistant
What was your first paying job, and what did it teach you?
My first paid job was as a checkout team member at Woolworths when I was 14. It was a valuable introduction to customer service, and the skills I developed there have stayed with me throughout many roles since. I quickly learned that while some customers can be challenging, many others are genuinely kind and a pleasure to serve.
What tertiary/vocational education have you completed?
I am on the tail end of completing a Bachelor of Entertainment Business Management at JMC. Before obtaining this degree, I completed a Certificate 3 in Health Service Assistance to work as an Assistant Nurse, which I held for a year.
Where did you work before landing your job at CLS?
I currently work at JB Hi-Fi as a senior merchandise team member. I have been there for 4 and a half years now.
What do you do to stay motivated at work? Do you have a productivity hack you can share with us?
I often struggle with finding motivation to start tasks, especially large ones, and can feel overwhelmed when I’m unsure where to begin. The Pomodoro method helps me overcome that by breaking the work into manageable, timed chunks, making the task feel less daunting and easier to start.
What is your favourite social media platform and why?
Instagram has become my go-to platform for just about everything—entertainment (usually the viral TikToks that make their way to Reels a few months later), news (from pop culture to global events), and even marketing (targeted ads or creative photo posts). It was also the first social media app I ever downloaded, so it carries a bit of nostalgia for me too.
What are some of your favourite things to do outside of work?
I might be a slow reader, but I genuinely love reading! I’m still making my way through the latest Hunger Games book, and my friends are eagerly waiting to talk about it with me. I also enjoy discovering new music—whether it’s through online forums or by attending live events. I am also a bit of a homebody, so staying home and watching a comfort show or movie is my way of relaxing.
Where do you go looking for inspiration?
I find inspiration from scouring Pinterest and putting together mood boards—it’s one of my favourite ways to get inspired, especially when I have a new project idea. I also turn to Instagram for visual inspiration, and sometimes TikTok, though it’s easy to get sidetracked there. Another thing I often do is talk to a friend who’s passionate or knowledgeable about the topic I’m working on. Their perspective not only helps me see things differently but often brings fresh ideas I hadn’t considered.
What kind of music do you enjoy?
Honestly, I need music playing all the time—it’s a constant in my life. My taste is pretty diverse. I grew up on R&B, especially groups like Destiny’s Child, so I’m really into the British trio FLO right now. I’m also loving the current pop queens like Sabrina, Chappell, and KATSEYE. On the Aussie side, I’m a big fan of Spacey Jane, Grent Perez, 1300, and The Rions.
What’s one place on your bucket list that you’d love to travel to and why?
I know I might be a bit late to the trend, but Japan is high on my travel list. I’d love to visit an onsen for the full traditional experience, but I’m also really interested in the Daikoku car meet. It’s a bit of a wildcard since it’s not an official event and sometimes gets patrolled by the police depending on the day and time. Still, there are some tours that offer a “Fast & Furious: Tokyo Drift” experience, taking you to Daikoku and around Tokyo in modified cars, which sounds like an unforgettable way to see the city.
At CLS we are very focused on self-care. Can you share with us some of the things you do to look after yourself that keep you in a good place to take on the challenges of daily life?
When using the Pomodoro method, I like to spend my 5-minute breaks outside getting some sun and fresh air—it’s a quick reset before diving back into work. And who doesn’t love a little treat? On tougher days, I’ll grab a matcha or bubble tea as a pick-me-up or a small reward for pushing through. I’m also a big fan of self-care rituals, like a spa-style shower with face masks, hair treatments, and warm towels. It’s my way of unwinding and preventing burnout.
What are you most excited about for your new role at CLS?
I’m genuinely excited to be joining the CLS team—they’re a wonderful group of people whom I’m ready to learn so much from. I look forward to applying my marketing and event planning skills while also challenging myself in this new environment and exploring different areas for growth.
We’re so excited to have Liv on board, and we know you’ll love working with her just as much as we do. You might see her name pop up in your inbox or find her working on some of our entertainment clients’ exciting upcoming events — so be sure to say hi and give her a warm welcome!
So, you’ve decided to team up with a marketing agency—exciting stuff! Whether you’re launching a new brand, want to scale your business, or are finally ready to hand over the social media reins, working with a marketing agency can be one of the smartest investments you’ll make. But what actually happens after that first “let’s work together” conversation? And how do you ensure you’re getting the most bang for your marketing buck?
Now, we can only speak for ourselves, but here at Creative Little Soul, we believe great partnerships are built on clarity, collaboration, and creative magic. Here’s what you can expect when working with a professional marketing agency—say, “ours.” Plus, here are some insider tips to help you get the most out of it and so you know what to expect.
What to Expect When You Sign On
1. A Deep Dive Into Your Brand
First, we want to know everything. The more we understand your business, values, audience, competitors, and goals, the more we can create marketing strategies that feel aligned and impactful. Expect questions—lots of them.
Tip: Be open and honest during this discovery phase. Share your wins, challenges, and wish list for where you want to go. Onboard us like you would a new employee. We want all the details and dirt.
2. Strategy Before Action
A good agency won’t just dive into posting on Instagram or tweaking your website without a game plan. We’ll create a strategy tailored to your goals—whether that’s building brand awareness, increasing leads, boosting engagement, or all of the above. Also, we don’t want to start posting on your account until you’ve approved the content, agreed that it suits your tone of voice, and used the written and agreed images and captions. You are in control; we are just here to support you.
Tip: Trust the process. Building a strong foundation might take time, but this is what sets you up for long-term success. Also, in the beginning, while we’re getting to know you, expect us to be annoying and ask more questions than might be normal, but know it’s because we want to get things right 100%, as it’s representing you and your brand.
3. Consistent Communication
We’re big on keeping the lines open. You’ll likely have regular check-ins (weekly or monthly, sometimes even daily!), reports to review, and a dedicated point of contact who knows your business inside out.
Tip: Be responsive and transparent in your feedback. We want your input—it’s how we make sure what we’re doing is working for you. Don’t worry about “hurting our feelings.” We need you to speak up. Tell us if you hate something or if it’s not “you.” We’re still getting to know each other, and we understand it will take time to get things right. We want you to speak up now so we can nail it for you.
4. Creative That Stands Out
From social media graphics to email newsletters, blog posts to ad campaigns—your brand is about to look and sound better than ever. Expect original, on-brand content that speaks directly to your audience.
Tip: Share your brand assets (logos, fonts, photos), tone of voice, and examples of what you love. This helps us create work that feels uniquely yours. Also, expect some things to not sound like “you” but rather that we’re talking to your intended or current audiences. Trust the process, let us hold your hand, and take you outside your comfort zone. It truly is where the magic happens.
5. Data, Testing & Tuning
Marketing isn’t set-and-forget. We look at the numbers, test what works, and adapt the strategy as we go. If something flops, we pivot. If something flies, we double down. We guarantee one of our team members is monitoring things in real time to fine-tune them.
Tip: Don’t panic if results aren’t instant—consistency is key. The data gives us insight, and insight fuels better decisions. Remember, we’re looking at the big picture, and this is all part of the course.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Marketing Agency
Be a partner, not just a client. The more involved you are, the better the outcome.
Set clear goals. What does success look like for you? Let us know so we can aim for it together.
Trust us. We get that it’s your baby, and handing over the keys is a big thing. We get that, and it’s huge that you’ve taken the big step to let someone in on something you’ve worked so hard to build and grow. We’re on your team, here to support you and help you grow. We get that trust is earned, but please go in with an open mind and heart that we’re going to guide you to greatness.
Give us access. To your website, socials, branding—whatever we need to do our job well.
Stay open to new ideas. Sometimes, the best results come from thinking outside the box.
Final Thoughts
Working with a marketing agency should feel like having a team of creative experts in your corner. At Creative Little Soul, we bring strategy, passion, and a whole lot of heart to everything we do. We love working with businesses that want to grow, stand out, and connect with their audience in meaningful ways.
If you’re ready to take your marketing to the next level, let’s chat. We’re here to help you shine—soul first, strategy always.
We hear it all the time: “You just need to stay active on socials.” And look, we get it, but that’s not all there is to it. Social media is fast-paced, and it can feel like if you’re not constantly posting, you’re falling behind. But here’s the truth: posting just to post is like throwing darts blindfolded and hoping you hit the bullseye. Spoiler alert: it usually doesn’t.
At Creative Little Soul, we believe your content should work smarter, not harder. Every post, story or reel should have a purpose, whether that’s building awareness, driving traffic to your website, boosting engagement or converting followers into paying customers. Staying active is important to maintain momentum and stay front-of-mind, but being intentional is where the magic happens. It’s about striking the right balance: staying consistent enough to build trust and recognition while ensuring every post is meaningful and aligned with your goals.
Busting the “just be active” myth
Somewhere along the line, small business owners were sold the idea that showing up every single day online was the secret to social media success. But let’s be real: posting daily with no clear strategy is like shouting into the void.
Here’s what often happens instead: you’re rushing to post because you feel like you have to, not because you have something valuable to share. The content feels disconnected from your goals. And your audience? They notice. They scroll past because it doesn’t speak to them, and over time, they tune out.
Instead, we help businesses balance consistency with intentionality. That means staying visible enough to keep your audience engaged and aware of your brand, but never sacrificing quality or purpose just to stay on the feed. Every piece of content should pull its weight — reinforcing your message, building connection and driving action.
How we create strategic content
When we create a content strategy for our clients, we don’t start with “what should we post this week?” Instead, we zoom out and ask:
What are your business goals this month?
What offers or products do you want to promote?
What’s been working and what do we need to readjust?
What actions do you want people to take after seeing your content?
Then, we use that info to map out content calendars and campaigns that support those goals. From there, we craft individual posts that tie back to the big picture.
A truly effective content strategy looks at the whole business year. We plan content around key dates like holidays, seasonal trends, major retail events like Black Friday or EOFY sales, industry-specific awareness days and your own milestones or launches. By looking at the year as a whole, we can plan ahead for big campaigns, work content around peak sales periods and make sure you’re never caught off guard. This also helps balance organic content with paid social campaigns so we’re not just posting to your audience, but actively growing it with targeted ads that showcase your business.
When we work with a client, we take the time to understand their goals and build a strategy that weaves together organic content, paid ads, key promotions and evergreen messaging. Maybe it’s a mix of reels to share behind-the-scenes stories, carousel posts to educate and showcase products, and a targeted ad campaign to drive traffic to a landing page or event. Every piece of content works together as part of a bigger plan, balancing frequency with intention so your audience hears from you consistently, but always with a clear message and purpose.
The role of data, insights and continuous refinement
Another big piece of the puzzle? We look at the data. Instead of guessing what your audience wants, we dig into analytics to see what’s actually resonating. Are people saving your offers? Are reels getting more reach than static posts? Which call-to-action led to the most clicks?
These insights help us refine your strategy over time so you’re not just active, but effective. We also use this data to inform ad targeting, creative decisions and budget allocation so your investment stretches further. And because we’re always reviewing performance, we can adjust the balance of content types, frequency and messaging to keep things fresh and results-driven.
Quality matters (and consistency too)
If you’ve been feeling stuck in the “I have to post every day” hamster wheel, here’s the thing: frequent posting is fantastic if every piece of content is genuinely valuable, on-brand and engaging. It’s not about choosing between quality or quantity; it’s about ensuring every post meets your quality standards while supporting your strategy. If you can maintain that high quality daily, amazing! But for most small businesses, it’s more sustainable (and effective) to focus on creating standout content a few times a week rather than churning out meaningless posts every day.
Consistency is still key, but consistency doesn’t have to mean showing up with filler posts just to stay visible. It means consistently delivering content that’s true to your brand, speaks to your audience and moves you closer to your business goals. Different businesses also have different ways of engaging their audience. For some, it’s daily Instagram Stories sharing behind-the-scenes moments. For others, it’s a weekly deep-dive post or monthly campaign that sparks conversation. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach; what matters is finding the right rhythm and style that aligns with your audience, your capacity and your goals.
At Creative Little Soul, we’re all about helping small businesses find that balance — staying consistently visible to build momentum and engagement, while avoiding the trap of posting for the sake of it. We help you create content that doesn’t just fill a feed; it fuels growth, builds connection and supports your business objectives.
Need help building a strategy and content plan that actually converts? Book in a chat with our team today. We’d love to help you turn your social media into a powerful marketing tool (and take “what should I post?” off your daily to-do list).
Let’s be real for a second. If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’ve been duct-taping your marketing together with late-night Canva sessions, picking from three-month-old social media drafts, and relying on a dusty customer database you swear you’ll “get to next week.”
You’re not alone. But you are exhausted. And guess what? You don’t have to do it all.
Here’s what actually happens when you finally let a marketing agency (like us) take the wheel—and no, it’s not just endless Zoom calls and jargon about “synergy.” It’s a full-blown transformation.
1. You Start Sleeping Again No more 2 a.m. Google spirals trying to figure out what “CTR” stands for. (It’s click-through rate, by the way, and yes, we track that for you.)
Instead of staring at a blank screen trying to write a caption that doesn’t make you cringe, you’re waking up to a done-for-you content calendar—filled with posts, emails and campaigns that actually sound like your brandand don’t feel like a second job.
2. You Realise Marketing Is More Than Just Posting on Instagram
Marketing isn’t just “make it look pretty and hope it works.” It’s a machine—with moving parts that can seriously increase your income. We bring the whole package:
Strategy (so you’re not winging it)
Accountability Sessions (because, we get it—you’re pulled in many directions)
Graphic Design (goodbye, Canva chaos)
Campaign Planning (hello, actual and decent ROI—(return on investment)
Content Creation (words and visuals that convert)
In other words: it’s not just one thing. It’s everything. And it finally starts working like it’s supposed to.
3. Your Brand Stops Sounding Like a Robot (or Four Different People)
When you’re stretched thin, your brand voice tends to shapeshift depending on who’s writing that day—or how much coffee they’ve had. One day you’re cheeky, the next you’re corporate, the next you sound like an inspirational quote poster.
We fix that. We build your brand voice, document it, and make it consistent. So every post, email, and campaign sounds unmistakably you—on your best day.
4. Strategy Replaces Stress
Throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing what sticks? Fun in theory. Costly and messy in real life.
We stop the guesswork. You get a data-driven marketing plan aligned with your goals—complete with realistic timelines, measurable targets, and a team that’s actually accountable and driven to see your business succeed.
No more chasing trends just to “keep up.” You get strategy with purpose.
5. You Stop Whispering “WTF Am I Even Doing?” Into Your Coffee
Marketing shouldn’t make you feel like you’re drowning in a sea of ever-changing algorithms and vague advice from LinkedIn gurus. When you’ve got a team who gets your business, handles the heavy lifting, and communicates like actual humans—not AI with a thesaurus—you start feeling something wild:
Confidence.
You know what’s going out, why it matters, and how it’s helping your business grow. No more “post and pray.”
6. Stuff Actually Gets Done (and Done Well)
We’re not here to “consult” you into a coma. We do the work, knowing our end game aligns. The posts go live. The campaigns launch. The graphics look amazing. The emails convert. You retain existing clients. You find new customers. The metrics get better.
You don’t have to babysit or micromanage. We’ve got systems, we’ve got standards, and we actually deliver.
7. You’re No Longer Guessing—Experts guide you
Yes, you’re still investing—but this time, you’ve a team of seasoned marketing professionals behind you. People who live and breathe this stuff. Who are constantly upskilling, tracking what’s working right now, and staying ahead of trends—so you don’t have to.
We don’t throw darts in the dark. We bring the proven strategies and insights that get you seen, remembered, and chosen.
No more guesswork. No more “maybe this will work?”. You’ll be looking at the numbers saying “Ok—this is actually working.”
8. You Get to Focus on Your Actual Job
You know—running your business, leading your team, or having an actual life outside of work. Not Googling “how to do email automations” while reheating your coffee for the third time.
The Bottom Line?
When you stop trying to be a one-person marketing department and let an agency take over, you gain time, clarity, results —and your sanity.
We’ve seen it happen again and again. Clients walk in overwhelmed, overworked, and totally over it. A few weeks in? They’re organised. Strategic. Confident. And yes… actually breathing again.
Let’s be honest, we all love a good spring clean, right? That feeling of decluttering, tossing out what no longer serves us, and making space for fresh, vibrant energy. But when was the last time you gave your email list that same loving, decluttering attention?
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent hours, days, even weeks nurturing your beautiful community, crafting those perfectly worded emails, and dreaming of sky-high open rates. But sometimes, despite all that effort, those numbers just aren’t budging. And you know what often quietly sabotages our efforts? A dusty, cluttered email list.
Think of your email list as your beautiful garden. You wouldn’t just keep watering weeds, would you? You want to nurture those vibrant, flourishing blooms! The same goes for your subscribers. Holding onto email addresses that are no longer engaged, or worse, are invalid, isn’t just a waste of your precious time and resources – it’s actually hurting your deliverability and the overall health of your email marketing.
The Magic of Decluttering: Why a Clean List is a Happy List
So, why is regularly cleaning up your email list such a game-changer? Let’s dive in!
1. Hello, Higher Open Rates! (And Clicks Too!)
This is probably the most obvious, but also the most exciting benefit! When you remove unengaged subscribers, your open rates (and click-through rates!) naturally climb. Why? Because you’re no longer sending emails to people who aren’t opening them. It’s like only counting the votes of people who actually voted. Your percentages will instantly look healthier, giving you a much more accurate picture of how your content is truly resonating.
2. Improved Deliverability: Landing in the Inbox, Not the Spam Folder
Internet service providers (ISPs) like Gmail and Outlook are always watching. They pay close attention to your sender reputation, and a big part of that is how many of your emails are actually opened and interacted with. If you’re consistently sending to people who aren’t opening your emails, or if you’re hitting a lot of invalid addresses, it signals to ISPs that your emails might not be valuable. This can lead to your precious messages landing in the dreaded spam folder – or worse, not being delivered at all! A clean list tells ISPs you’re a reputable sender, helping your emails land exactly where you want them: in the inbox.
3. Saving Your Precious Pennies (and Time!)
Most email marketing platforms charge you based on the number of subscribers you have. Why pay for subscribers who aren’t even opening your emails? Cleaning your list means you’re only paying for the engaged audience who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer. This frees up your budget for other amazing things in your business! Plus, less time spent troubleshooting delivery issues means more time for creating incredible content.
The Power of Segmentation: Nurturing Your Niche!
Beyond just removing the inactive, a clean-up is the perfect opportunity to embrace the power of segmentation. This is where your email marketing truly sparkles!
Segmentation means dividing your email list into smaller, more specific groups based on shared characteristics or interests. Think about it: someone who just downloaded your free printable might have different needs than someone who’s been a loyal customer for years.
How does segmentation help?
Personalised Content: You can tailor your messages to resonate deeply with each specific group. This makes your emails feel less like a mass broadcast and more like a personal conversation, which in turn boosts engagement.
Stronger Relationships: By sending relevant content, you build stronger connections with your audience, fostering trust and loyalty.
Higher Conversions: When your messages speak directly to a segment’s needs, they’re much more likely to take the action you desire, whether that’s making a purchase, signing up for a workshop, or simply engaging with your content.
Ready to Roll Up Your Sleeves?
So, how do you go about this magical email list cleanse? Most email service providers (like MailerLite, ConvertKit, ActiveCampaign – you name it!) have built-in tools to help you identify unengaged subscribers.
A few tips to get you started:
Define “Unengaged”: Decide what constitutes an unengaged subscriber for your business. Is it someone who hasn’t opened an email in 3 months? 6 months? A year?
Send a Re-engagement Campaign: Before you hit that delete button, consider sending a “we miss you!” or “are you still interested?” email campaign. Give those sleepy subscribers one last chance to re-engage.
Regular Schedule: Make email list hygiene a regular part of your business routine. Whether it’s quarterly or bi-annually, schedule it in your calendar!
Cleaning up your email list might feel a little daunting at first, but trust me, the benefits are immense. You’ll have a healthier, happier, and more engaged audience who genuinely wants to hear from you. And that, my dear creative souls, is pure magic!
All sound like its way too hard to tackle alone? Get in touch now, and let us streamline the process and we’ll have you on your way to sending the best emails ever!
Marketing can feel daunting, especially when you’re already juggling the day-to-day demands of running a business. You’re not alone if you’re unsure where to start or how to make the most of your marketing budget. Many business owners find themselves in this exact spot, where a bit of strategic direction can make all the difference. So, let’s break it down into five essential steps to set you on the right path.
Step 1: Clarify Your Brand’s Core Identity
Before you dive into ads, posts, or promotions, it’s crucial to nail down who you are as a brand. This isn’t just about your logo or colour palette—it’s about understanding your brand’s voice, values, and the message you want to send to the world. Ask yourself:
What sets my business apart?
Who is my ideal customer?
What problems do I solve for my audience?
Once you’re clear on these foundational elements, you’ll have a guiding light for every piece of marketing you create. Consistency is key, and having a strong brand identity keeps your messaging cohesive and memorable.
Step 2: Understand Your Audience (Really, Really Well)
Next, take the time to get to know your audience on a deeper level. It’s not just about age and location—it’s about understanding their pain points, aspirations, and the tone and language they use. Dive into your customer data, read through reviews, and even have conversations with your clients. This insight is gold for crafting content that resonates and drives action.
Step 3: Conduct an Online Audit
Before investing time and money in new campaigns, take a moment to evaluate your current online presence. This means checking your website, social media profiles, Google Business page, and other digital touchpoints. Are your contact details up to date? Is your branding consistent across all platforms? Are you effectively communicating your unique selling points? An audit will help you identify gaps and opportunities to polish your digital footprint before scaling up.
Step 4: Build a Plan and Start Small
Once you have a clear brand identity and a deep understanding of your target audience, it’s time to develop a comprehensive marketing plan. But don’t overwhelm yourself—start small. Select one or two channels where your audience is most active and concentrate your efforts there. Whether it’s Instagram, email marketing, or in-person events, commit to showing up consistently.
Step 5: Track and Adjust
Marketing isn’t a one-and-done task. It’s an ongoing process of testing, learning, and refining. Use analytics tools to track your progress and make adjustments as needed. Whether it’s tweaking your ad copy, refining your social media strategy, or experimenting with different content formats, staying agile is the key to long-term success.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to level up your marketing, why not start with a free discovery call? At Creative Little Soul, we specialise in helping businesses find their voice, connect with their ideal clients, and build a marketing strategy that works. Click here to book your call, and let’s get your marketing off the ground!
Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once—just take the first step. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
When a new client comes to us for a brand or marketing audit, they’re often expecting me to dive straight into ad strategy or social media metrics. But here’s the truth: before we talk numbers or followers, I look at three deceptively simple things that almost always reveal missed opportunities.
These aren’t just checkboxes. These are foundational elements that shape how your audience perceives you, engages with you, and ultimately, whether or not they trust you enough to buy. Let me take you behind the scenes of what I assess first when reviewing a client’s digital presence.
1. Is All the Info on Your Socials & Website Correct and Clear? Is Your Branding Cohesive?
This might sound basic, but you’d be shocked how many businesses have incorrect bios, outdated offers, or confusing messaging across platforms. First, I look at:
Does your Instagram bio match what’s on your website?
Are your highlights, pinned posts, and featured services current?
When I land on your homepage, do I immediately understand who you serve, what you do, and what makes you different?
Then, I assess the branding itself. Fonts, colours, tone of voice, logo usage—it should all feel cohesive. If your social media feels fun and modern but your website is stiff and corporate, you’re sending mixed signals. Your future customers will pick up on this disconnect. I’m also checking when was it you last posted AND is it easy to find your opening hours or how to get in touch? These are fundamental people!
Why it matters: Consistency builds credibility. Clarity builds conversions.
2. Are Your Links Doing Their Job? Is Your Website Layout Enticing and User-Friendly?
Next, I click. Everywhere. I click every link in your bio, on your site, in your Linktree. I want to know:
Are they working? Are any links broken?
Are they leading to the most strategic destinations?
Do they load quickly and look good on mobile?
And when I land on your site, I’m not just scanning for decent graphic design and info—I’m looking at the flow. Does your layout guide me through your site? Are your calls-to-action obvious but not pushy? Is it clear where I should go next?
Why it matters: Your digital journey should feel effortless. Friction loses customers. Confusion costs clicks.
3. Is Anything Outdated? Old Offers, Images, or Irrelevant Messaging?
Finally, I zone in on what hasn’t been updated in a while. That “Coming Soon” page from 2022? That blog post about your old functions package? The team photo with someone who left a year ago? These things matter more than you think.
Your audience notices when things feel stale or abandoned. They subconsciously wonder, “Are they still in business? Are they paying attention?”
I also check for visual consistency—if your photo style has evolved but your homepage still features content from three aesthetics ago, it’s time for a refresh.
Why it matters: Up-to-date content shows you’re active, trustworthy, and on top of your game. It shows you care about the details—and your audience.
These three areas are often overlooked because they seem “simple.” But in every audit I’ve done, they reveal the root of deeper issues: unclear messaging, low engagement, or conversion plateaus. Plus we delve even deeper into your brand reputation and seek the darkest depths of the internet to see if things might come up later, we’d rather were kept dead and burried. True story.
Another reason we do this too is that when we implement a marketing plan and deploy a strategy, we want to ensure that the eyes we are sending to your online accounts are going to find everything they need when they get there, not be embarrassed by what they find. This is our first port of call to get to know you too.
If your marketing isn’t converting the way you want it to, don’t start by blowing up your whole strategy. Start with an audit. At CLS we offer in-depth marketing audits that pinpoint exactly what’s working, what’s not, and what to prioritize first.
Whether you’re a solo founder or a growing team, a fresh set of eyes can make all the difference.
What happens when a passionate small business teams up with a marketing firm that’s just as invested in their success as they are?
Spoiler alert: magic.
This is the story of Niche Fruits, a boutique local business with a big heart and an even bigger vision. When they first came to us, they were doing all the right things — growing beautiful produce, hand-packing every order with love, and pouring their soul into every drop they sent out into the world. But online? It was… quiet. Like, crickets quiet.
They weren’t alone. So many small business owners are experts at their craft — whether it’s growing fruit, baking cakes, or running events — but marketing? That’s a whole different fruit bowl.
That’s where we came in.
The Power of Consistency (and a Little Coaching)
Our first step with Niche Fruits wasn’t flashy. It was foundational. We sat down, got real, and created a plan that was realistic, achievable, and—most importantly—aligned with their brand voice.
We helped them:
Build a consistent email marketing strategy, with warm, authentic messaging that feels like a friend popping into your inbox.
Shot some new social media content that told their story and showed the heart behind the business—not just what they sell.
Set goals, stay accountable, and actually hit those goals (game changer).
Each month, we didn’t just send out a campaign and cross our fingers. We tracked what worked, celebrated the wins, tweaked what didn’t, and kept showing up.
The result? Every time Niche Fruits launches something new on their website—they get swamped. Orders flood in. Regulars stock up. New customers discover them. And best of all? The business is growing in a way that’s sustainable, joyful, and true to them.
More Than Marketing — It’s a Partnership
This isn’t just about fancy graphics or a clever caption. It’s about what happens when someone’s in your corner. When you have a team who not only gets what you’re trying to build, but knows how to amplify it. When you’re no longer guessing, spinning your wheels, or stuck in overwhelm.
We helped Niche Fruits go from wondering if anyone was out there… to wondering how they’re going to keep up with demand.
That’s the power of marketing that works with you, not just for you.
Feeling the Crickets?
If you’re reading this and thinking, “That’s where I’m at,”—we’ve got you. Whether you need strategy, content, emails, or just someone to bounce ideas off every month, we’re here to help you show up online like the pro you are.
Because your business deserves more than silence. It deserves a standing ovation.
We get it… beautiful branding makes our hearts flutter. That dreamy colour palette, those drool-worthy social tiles, the perfectly filtered flat-lays? Chef’s kiss. But here’s a spicy little truth bomb from the team at Creative Little Soul: aesthetic isn’t everything when it comes to marketing.
Now don’t get us wrong—we’re not about to throw branding under the bus. Cohesive branding and knockout visuals absolutely matter. They’re the eye candy that stops the scroll, gives your biz personality, and helps build recognition. But if your strategy ends with “looks good on the ‘gram,” it might be time to zoom out and look at the bigger picture.
Because here’s the thing: behind every truly successful brand is a whole lot of strategy. That’s where the real magic happens.
The Pretty Picture Trap
It’s easy to get wrapped up in creating the perfect grid or obsessing over font pairings. But without a plan behind it all, you’re basically throwing glitter at a wall and hoping it sticks. Pretty? Maybe. Effective? Not really.
So, what should you be focusing on beyond the aesthetic?
1. Email Marketing: The Unsung Hero
Emails might not be as flashy as a trending Reel, but they’re one of the most powerful tools in your marketing arsenal. Whether it’s a welcome sequence, a monthly newsletter, or a cheeky flash sale, email marketing builds relationships, nurtures leads, and drives results. (And yes, we can help make them sound like you—not a robot.)
But here’s the real kicker: with some serious strategy behind it, your email database can grow faster—and bigger—than your social media following. Why does that matter? Because email subscribers are way more loyal than your average Instagram scroller. These are the people who actually want to know what you’ve got to offer. They’re not just passively liking your latest pic—they’re opening emails, clicking through, and going out of their way to learn more, shop more, book more.
For example, one of our clients in hospitality built a database of over 15,000 subscribers—more than double their social followers. They now sell out new product drops through email before they even hit socials. That’s the power of talking to an audience who’s already interested.
2. Strategic Planning: AKA Why Are We Doing This?
A beautiful campaign without strategy is like a Ferrari without petrol—it might look impressive, but it’s not going anywhere.
Strategic planning means knowing your goals before you post a single thing. Are you trying to build brand awareness? Increase bookings? Launch a new product? Maybe you want more foot traffic in-store, or to grow your community online. Without those goals clearly defined, you’re essentially just guessing.
We’ve worked with clients who came to us stuck in a content rut—posting cute pics but not seeing results. With a little TLC and a solid strategy (think campaign planning, goal setting, content pillars, and customer journey mapping), we turned it around. Suddenly, their content had purpose and performance.
3. Content with Purpose
A nice photo of your product is great—but what does it say? Content should always answer the question: Why does this matter to my audience?
Let’s say you’re a café with a killer brunch menu. Instead of just posting a shot of avo toast (we’ve all seen it), add a caption about how your sourdough is baked fresh daily, or how that avo comes from a local farmer. Invite people to book a table or ask their followers to vote for next week’s special. Now your post isn’t just pretty—it’s engaging, informative, and action-driven.
At CLS, we believe content should either inform, entertain, connect, or convert. Ideally, a bit of all four.
4. SEO and Analytics: The Nerdy Stuff That Actually Matters
Look, we love good creative vibes—but without the numbers, you’re flying blind.
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) helps your website and blog content appear when people are actually looking for what you do. That means using keywords your audience is Googling, structuring content properly, and making your site user-friendly. We’ve seen major improvements in search visibility just by refining things like website copy, structure, and metadata—often without spending significantly on paid ads.
Analytics help you cut through the noise and see what’s actually driving results. Maybe your emails get opened a lot but people aren’t clicking through, or your Instagram posts get plenty of likes but don’t lead to website visits. Without keeping an eye on these numbers, you’re flying blind—missing opportunities to refine your approach. The good news? Often, tiny but calculated adjustments based on data can make a huge difference.
5. Customer Engagement
Marketing is not a one-way street. It’s a conversation. And if you’re only shouting into the void with pretty posts, you’re missing out on building real connections.
Engagement is what turns casual scrollers into fans and fans into customers. Ask questions in your captions. Share behind-the-scenes moments. Respond to comments and DMs like a human. Use polls and quizzes. Show people the real personality behind your brand.
One of our favourite tricks? Sharing short, authentic snippets—like the story behind a product, a quick team moment, or something that makes your audience feel like they’re getting the inside scoop. These create connection and spark conversation, which not only builds community but also gives your content a boost in the algorithm.
6. Ongoing Optimisation: The Secret Sauce
Here’s where it gets a bit trickier—but also where the real results start to shine.
Creating a strategy is just step one. The next (and often forgotten) step? Constantly assessing and adjusting based on what the data is telling you. We’re talking content performance, platform shifts, audience behaviour—the stuff most people overlook.
Maybe your videos are getting more saves than likes—great! Let’s make more of them. Maybe your carousels are getting skipped—cool, time to switch it up. The platforms are constantly changing, and you’ve got to keep up if you want the algorithm working for you, not against you.
Lucky for you, our team is full of absolute nerds for this kind of stuff. We live for testing, tweaking, and learning what makes content stick. We stay plugged into platform updates, algorithm shifts, and new trends so you don’t have to. It’s how we ensure our clients’ marketing stays current, relevant, and has the best chance of converting it possibly can.
So… What Now?
If this has you rethinking your marketing approach, you’re not alone. So many businesses get stuck focusing on the surface-level stuff—pretty posts, trending audio, shiny logos—without the solid foundation underneath. But effective marketing goes deeper.
At Creative Little Soul, we combine creativity and strategy to build marketing that not only looks good, but actually works. From big-picture planning to daily content creation, email marketing, analytics, SEO, socials and everything in between—we’re here to make sure your brand doesn’t just show up, but shows up with purpose.
If you’re ready to ditch the fluff and back your brand with real, thoughtful strategy, we’re ready when you are.
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 graphicdesigner.
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.
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!
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 ???
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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!
