Planning an event in New York City is exciting, and we’re being honest, a bit overwhelming, too. NYC has events and parties happening all the time, every day of the year, and event guests have seen it all. It can feel like a double-edged sword at times. It’s endless opportunities and sky-high expectations. How do you stand out and create buzz-worthy NYC events that people actually want to attend? It’s about being strategic and a little bold. Let’s dive into the NYC event marketing moves that are getting results in 2025.
Event Marketing Before the Event: Build Hype and Get People Excited
The energy you create before your event sets the tone for everything that follows. Pre-event marketing should spark curiosity and make your guests feel like your event is one they can’t miss. This is your chance to build momentum and make a strong first impression.
Share Content and Create Real Connections
Show the real faces behind your brand. Let people see what your team is up to. Share fun and engaging content to generate some buzz around your event. Give a glimpse into the planning process and use a genuine voice across your platforms. New Yorkers respond to honesty, authenticity, and personality. The more relatable you are, the more people are naturally drawn in.
Work With Local Influencers
Working with local influencers is a great way to build trust and reach specific communities. Find those with smaller but loyal followings who align with your brand. Invite them to preview the event, go live during setup, or host a behind-the-scenes tour.
Make the RSVP Process Engaging & Fun
Your marketing starts the second someone lands on your event page. Instead of a boring form, turn your RSVP into an experience. Ask a fun question, give them a personalized confirmation, or offer a small perk for responding early. The more engaging it feels, the more excited people get.
Event Marketing During the Event: Keep the Energy Alive
You’ve built up the hype around your event. The pre-event marketing has excited people, and the day is finally here. The doors are open, the guests are arriving, and now it’s all about creating a vibe they’ll want to stay in. Now, it’s time to turn anticipation into action.
Incorporate Fun Surprises
Event guests in 2025 want shareable moments. Those that give a wow-factor and are surprising. Consider incorporating unexpected performances, secret menu items, or a quick pop-up experience inside your main event. These moments create natural buzz because guests want to tell people about them.
Offer Limited Access Moments
Hidden gems within an event to make people feel special? Maybe it’s a private tasting with the chef, early access to a new product, or a specialty cocktail only a few can try. When guests feel like they’ve unlocked something others didn’t, they’re more likely to share it and come back for more.
Get Creative with Event Entertainment
Think beyond the stage. Instead of a single headliner or performance, try bringing in real-time experiences like flash giveaways, live art, or even pop-up moments that only happen once during the event. Add tools like live polls or instant photo printing to keep guests involved and on their toes. These unexpected bursts of fun keep the event upbeat and surprising.
Event Marketing After the Event: Keep the Buzz Going
Just because the event is over doesn’t mean the experience has to end. The days right after the event are perfect for reconnecting with guests while the energy is still fresh. Keep the conversation flowing so your brand stays with your event guests, and the buzz builds toward whatever you’ve planned next.
Share the Highlights & Celebrate Your Guests
Post recap videos, fun moments, and thank-yous. Tag attendees, share their photos, and show appreciation. Guests want to feel seen and celebrated. When people see themselves in your content, they’re more likely to engage, share, and show up again next time.
Stay Engaged for Your Upcoming Events
Use follow-up emails and social posts to thank guests for attending. Offer something extra or tease the next event. Don’t disappear once the event is over. You never know who will be a part of your upcoming events. Share bonus content like behind-the-scenes footage, sneak peeks of what’s next, or exclusive offers just for attendees. Guests can stay engaged in between experiences.
Find Event Marketing Ways to Stand Out at The Expo
Get inspired, make meaningful connections, and learn exactly how to build buzz before, during, and after your events at The Event Planner Expo. From new marketing ideas in 2025 and beyond to unforgettable insights, this is where NYC’s best event planners level up. We’ll see you there! Get your tickets today!
