So, you’re thinking about influencer marketing, eh? Let’s dive into why it’s the hottest tool for local businesses around South Eastern Ontario and the Bay of Quinte. Spoiler: It’s not just for TikTok stars and YouTube celebs in L.A. We’ve got our own influencer gems right here in Belleville, Trenton, The County, Picton, Stirling, Napanee, Brighton, and the other hidden treasures of this beautiful region.
Why Influencers? Because Word of Mouth Still Works (Just on Steroids)
Back in the day, word of mouth was everything—what Michelle said about your business in the schoolyard or at the grocery store was worth gold. Well, fast forward to now, and influencers are basically the Michelles of Instagram and YouTube, but cooler. They spread the word like wildfire about your products or services, and their audience? They trust them. Like… “If Sandra said this café in Wellington serves the best coffee, I’m already on my way there” kind of trust.
Quinte Wests’ Influencers – Not Just For The ‘Gram
Don’t sleep on Quinte Wests’ rising social stars. You don’t need a million followers to make a difference. In fact, micro and nano-influencers (folks with smaller but super loyal audiences) can be the sweet spot for a local business. They know the community, the hot spots (Tomasso’s anyone?), and they can drive traffic your way like a Quinte Transit bus on a busy day.
Picton’s influencers? Yeah, they’re all about that artsy lifestyle. Get them talking about your pottery store or vintage boutique, and watch as people flood your shop, making your business the next must-stop on their way to Sandbanks Beach.
The Bay of Quinte is More Than Just Beautiful Views
If you’re not tapping into influencer marketing in the Bay of Quinte, you’re basically leaving money on the table. Like, seriously. This place is not just for sunsets and boat rides (although, chef’s kiss on the views). It’s full of creative influencers who are ready to showcase your café, your consignment store, or your bed-and-breakfast in ways that make people go, “OMG, we HAVE to visit.”
And let’s talk about Stirling. You might not think this small town has much of an influencer scene, but plot twist, there’s a growing niche of foodies and adventurers who are showcasing its charm. So, if you’ve got a bakery or a cozy restaurant tucked away, find your local influencer and let them work their magic.
But Isn’t Influencer Marketing Just for the Big Cities?
NOPE. Toronto might have Drake, but we’ve got… well, we’ve got folks who are way more relatable. That’s the thing—your local audience wants to see content from people who live and breathe the same air as them. They want to know the cool spots from people they could bump into at the farmer’s market. A shoutout from a local in Napanee or a fitness influencer in Belleville might have more pull than some big-name star who’s never set foot in your store.
Get Started—It’s Easier Than You Think
So, where do you start? Honestly, just DM someone who’s already talking about things similar to your business or reach out to us and we’ll get you in touch with a few. And no, you don’t need to spend thousands. A free product or an exclusive experience can be worth more than cold, hard cash to a local influencer who’s excited about supporting businesses in their own backyard.
Final Thoughts (AKA the Call to Action You Totally Saw Coming)
If you’re a business in South Eastern Ontario, particularly in areas like Belleville, Trenton, Napanee, Picton, Stirling, and beyond, influencer marketing is your secret weapon. Let your local stars do the heavy lifting while you sit back, relax, and watch the traffic flow in (both the online kind and the foot kind—though preferably not both at the same time).
Alright, time to stop reading and start sliding into some DMs. Your next local marketing superstar is probably right around the corner—or, y’know, just a few taps away on your phone.
