The Ultimate Guide to Using Print and Direct Mail for VBS Promotion

Vacation Bible School (VBS) is not just any other event; it’s a critical fixture in the church calendar, known for its ability to unite communities and instill lasting values in children. But for VBS to truly shine, it must be communicated effectively. 

This article draws a comprehensive plan to help you leverage the power of print and direct mail to make your VBS message resonate with your congregation and community.

1. The Art of Crafting a Compelling Message

Your message is the quintessential soul of VBS promotion. It must be engaging and concise while reflecting the core values of your event. Highlighting the unique aspects of your VBS, such as a novel curriculum or a special theme, can be a point of differentiation in a crowded promotion landscape.

Why It Matters

In a world of fleeting attention spans, a strong message is the magnet that draws in your audience. It also sets the tone for your VBS, creating anticipation and excitement.

How to Do It Right

• Start with a tagline that encapsulates the essence of your VBS.
• Use vibrant, fun colors and fonts that appeal to children and parents alike.
• Incorporate storytelling elements that make your message memorable.

2. Designing Eye-Catching Outdoor Banners & Yard Signs

Outdoor banners and yard signs are the first point of contact between your VBS and the community at large. They need to be eye-catching and informative from a distance.

Key Considerations

• Durable Material: Ensure your banners can withstand the elements for the duration of the promotion.
• Clear Contact and Venue Information: Make it easy for people to find and join the VBS.
• Bright Colors & Themed Branding: Include bright colors that reflect the exciting nature of VBS and include the VBS theme branding to differentiate your church.
• Order your VBS Banners & Yard Signs from Us! We can design them, too!

3. The Power of the Handheld Invite

A tangible, hand-delivered invitation adds a personal touch to your VBS promotion. They are not just a means to an end; they are the start of a conversation that can build community.

Getting Personal

• Encourage members to distribute invites to friends and neighbors personally.
• Share stories of past VBS experiences to show the impact and warmth the event offers.
• Ensure your invites are fun and kid-friendly, doubling as keepsakes and mementos.
• Order your VBS Invite Cards from Us! We can design them, too!

4. Direct Mail Services: Your Efficient Delivery System

Direct mail might seem old-school, but it delivers a personal and tangible message directly into the hands of your congregation and desired audience.

Making the Most of Direct Mail

• Segment Your Audience: Tailor your mailings to different groups within your church and the broader community.
• Invest in Professional Mailing Services: Ensure your materials are delivered promptly and in a condition that reflects the quality of the VBS.
• Enclose a Personal Note: A simple handwritten note or a signature from the church leader can make a significant impact on the receiver.
• Let us handle your VBS Direct Mail campaign, including design, printing, list rental, postage and mailing services.

5. Maximizing Digital Platforms for a Holistic Strategy

Print is potent, but its power is further amplified by the use of digital platforms. Social media and email provide interactive and shareable avenues to engage potential VBS attendees.

Synergizing the Campaign

• Create a unified VBS hashtag for social media to track engagement and encourage sharing.
• Send out digital reminders and teasers about the VBS that complement your print materials.
• Host live Q&A sessions or share preparatory materials digitally to involve participants before the event.

6. Bringing It All Together

From the initial steps of crafting your message to the final distribution of materials, every effort you make should align with your church’s mission and the goals of VBS. An integrated approach involves staying consistent across all channels, ensuring that your printed materials reflect the same voice and content as your digital assets.

The Final Message

• Consistency is key to building recognition for your VBS brand.
• Track and analyze results from both print and digital efforts to understand what works best for your audience.
• Always be prepared to adapt and refine your strategies for the best possible outcome.

In conclusion, VBS is a voyage—one where the power of effective, engaging communication can chart the course for a memorable and impactful experience for all involved. By weaving print and direct mail into your promotional foundation, you infuse your VBS story with the intimacy and personal connection that makes the church such a vital community hub. Remember to stay on message, infuse your materials with vibrancy, and always seek to engage your audience in ways that are as unique and special as the event itself.