Like it or not, social media has become an intrinsic part of our culture. And the brands that embrace this reality have learned that the medium can be a valuable tool in reaching potential customers, staying engaged in their communities and sharing the stories behind their businesses.
For our Best in Casual Awards, sponsored by Snap Finance and presented in partnership with the International Casual Furnishings Association and Andmore, we received nominations for brands and retailers who engage, entertain and educate through their social media channels. Here, we share the finalists. Join us on July 15 at the Casual Market Atlanta Kickoff Party to celebrate the winners.
Porch + Patio
Porch + Patio approaches social media as a tool not only to showcase the products in their stores in Kingsland and St. Simon’s Island, Georgia, but also as a vehicle for connecting with customers and the industry at large.
On their Instagram accounts, in particular, the team at Porch + Patio post beautiful product and project photography that inspires and illustrates all that’s possible in outdoor living. Mood board-style images show viewers how colors, fabrics and textures can create a cohesive look. And educational posts inform on everything from squirrel-proof birdseed to protecting your furnishings from the elements.
But ultimately, Porch + Patio sets its social media apart via one major factor: Fun. From posting photos of coasters with cheeky sayings to sharing behind-the-scenes videos from events such as Casual Market Atlanta and the ICFA Elevate Educational Conference, Porch + Patio owner Sissy Blanchard uses social media to have a good time and show viewers the people behind the brand.
Uttermost
When full-line furniture brand Uttermost officially entered the casual category earlier this year, they knew how important it would be to strike the right chord, not only with the products they introduced, but also the way they marketed the launch. And social media played a major role in that introduction.
Uttermost’s social channels incorporate images and video that takes viewers on showroom tours, into factories to see artisans hand-weaving products, and behind the scenes to get to know the people behind the 50-year-old brand.
Uttermost’s social media immerses viewers in not only product, but the lifestyle of the brand, giving a richer, fuller picture of the company’s outdoor ethos.
Sunnyland
Sunnyland Outdoor Furniture in Dallas invites viewers into its showroom through the eyes of Deborah Holt, who manages their social media on-site.
Sunnyland posts photos and videos that not only highlight the store’s products, but also offer inspiration and education about those pieces. Themed gift guides, posts highlighting different price point categories, service-oriented posts such as high-wind warnings and customer photos of their outdoor spaces give viewers a wide range of informative and engaging content. And Holt takes viewers behind the scenes of the store with video tours and posts of employees engaging with the community.
“Deborah does an amazing job with our social media campaigns,” said Brad Schweig, VP of operations, Sunnyland. “She is in-store and always creating great content with the goal of not just selling furniture but also sharing our company, lifestyle, values and our team members to the world.”
