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But here’s the truth: It’s better when you don’t go alone.

Learning Together Leads to Faster Results

Research shows that teams who learn together move faster. When multiple people attend the same training, they’re more likely to take action within 30 days—and retain up to 35% more of what they learned.

That’s why bringing at least one teammate to Orange Conference isn’t just helpful—it’s strategic.

You’ll leave more aligned, you’ll act more quickly, and you’ll build momentum that lasts long after the conference ends.

Whether it’s your ministry teammate, lead pastor, or small group coordinator, inviting someone with you changes the experience—and the impact.

Shared Experience = Shared Action

You can recap a session. You can summarize notes. But you can’t recreate a moment.

When you and a teammate attend the same workshop, you leave with the same urgency, clarity, and language. There’s no need to convince someone why it matters—they were there too.

You both heard the strategy, you both saw the vision, and you both felt the momentum.

That shared moment turns into shared action. You start speaking the same language. You recognize the same problems. You’re ready to lead in sync.

Picture this:

You’re in a breakout about building faith habits. Your teammate is nodding beside you. By the time the session ends, you both know you’re ready to launch a monthly family experience.

Or you hear a speaker talk about partnering with parents. Your teammate turns and says, “We’ve never really done this well—let’s fix that.”

That kind of clarity and motivation is hard to generate solo—but it happens all the time when leaders learn together.

Orange Strategy Clicks Faster When You See It Together

Orange is a biblical, discipleship-first strategy rooted in two truths:

1. Faith develops over time.
2. The church is strongest when it partners with parents.

That strategy becomes even clearer when more than one person experiences it.

Each phase of Orange curriculum builds on the last:

• Preschoolers discover God through wonder, play, and truth.
• Elementary kids learn how knowing Jesus shapes everyday choices.
• Middle and high school students explore what faith looks like in real life.

And every step includes resources to help families disciple at home.

When you attend with a teammate, you start to see how all the pieces fit. You recognize where your own ministry is out of sync. And you leave knowing how to realign your team with purpose.

More Buy-In. Faster Implementation.

Let’s be honest—when one person goes to a conference, inspiration can get stuck in a notebook. It’s hard to recreate the energy when no one else was in the room.

But when two people attend? The conversation changes.

You both know what needs to happen, you both believe in why it matters, and you both feel the urgency to act.

Instead of explaining everything later, you’re already building a plan together.

One of you mentions a new tool—you both know what it is.
One of you references a big idea—you both heard the same talk.
You don’t have to start from scratch—you’re already moving forward.

Two People = Twice the Learning

You can’t be in two places at once—but if you bring a teammate, you don’t have to be.

While you’re in a session on elementary strategy, your teammate can dive into student mental health. You double your insights, double your notes, and double the value of every session.

Then you compare takeaways over coffee or during a break.

With sessions covering leadership, small groups, communication, technology, curriculum, and more, dividing and conquering helps your team collect more solutions—and come back with more momentum.

Real-Time Processing is a Game-Changer

Orange Conference moves fast. Ideas come quickly. That’s why breaks and downtime are built in—to breathe, reflect, and talk it out.

When you bring a teammate, those conversations can happen in real time:

• “What did you think about that idea?”
• “How would this work at our church?”
• “What do we need to change when we get home?”

You’re not just taking in content—you’re processing it together. And when you leave, you’ll already have next steps forming in your notes and your mindset.

Stronger Team Culture Starts at Orange Conference

Yes, Orange Conference is full of content—but the true impact often comes from connection.

Being away from your routine, worshiping together, reflecting together, and dreaming together—this builds trust. It strengthens communication. It shifts how you lead.

Sometimes, being together outside the church changes how you lead inside the church.

You’ll Network More (and Smarter)

Orange Conference brings together thousands of ministry leaders. You’ll hear what’s working in other churches and discover new approaches to the same challenges.

With multiple team members, you’ll meet more people, visit more booths, attend more sessions, and gather more insight. You multiply your community—on purpose.

Exhibit Booths Are Better with Backup

Don’t sleep on the exhibit hall—it’s packed with curriculum samples, volunteer tools, and creative ideas.

When you walk through with a teammate, you:

• Ask better questions.
• Spot more useful resources.
• Enter more giveaways (and boost your chances to win!).

Plus, you can divide and conquer here too—and cover more ground.

Group Pricing Makes It Work

We get it—budget matters. Orange Conference offers special pricing for groups of eight or more. That lowers the per-person cost and stretches your training investment further.

But even if you’re not bringing eight? Start with two.

You’ll still walk away with clarity, momentum, and a clear plan for what’s next. And next year, you might be ready to bring more.

Bottom Line: It’s Just Better Together

You’ll learn more.
Grow faster.
Take action sooner.
Feel more supported.

If you’ve never brought someone with you to Orange Conference, this is your year.

Mini Team Planning Guide

You don’t need a big group to make a big impact. Just two people can come home with real change. Here’s how:

Before the Conference

• Choose your workshops and split them up.
• Make a short list of problems you want to solve.
• Set one shared goal for your ministry.
• Talk through expectations: When will you debrief? What tools do you want to bring back?

During the Conference

• Meet at lunch or breaks to compare notes.
• Walk the exhibit hall together.
• Use downtime to sketch out ideas.
• Capture quotes, strategies, and next steps.

After the Conference

• Week 1: Debrief with your full team.
• Week 2: Pick one action to try immediately.
• Week 3: Check in—what’s working?
• Week 4: Decide what to keep and scale.

Bringing a teammate doesn’t just improve your conference experience—it improves your ministry.

👉 Register now for Orange Conference 2025.

The post Why Orange Conference is Better When You Bring Someone With You appeared first on Think Orange.

Since its inception, over 78,000 leaders have attended. They come from different churches, backgrounds, and ministry roles, but they share a common goal: to grow in their calling and impact the next generation.

Some are new to ministry. Others have been in it for decades. Some bring their entire team. Others come alone.

But all leave with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a clear plan for what’s next.

Why Orange Conference Is a Must-Attend Event

1. Strategic, High-Quality Training

Orange Conference offers more than inspiration—it delivers practical, focused training. Every main session, workshop, and experience is designed to help leaders move their ministries forward.

What to expect:

• 50+ workshops across preschool, kids, youth, and family ministry.
• Specialized content for communicators, small group leaders, and senior leaders.
• Trending topics like building faith habits, storytelling, mental health, and partnering with parents.
• Fresh insights into Gen Alpha and Gen Z.
• Focus on leadership, strategy, and navigating change.

This is high-impact training that respects your time and equips you to take action.

2. A Community That Energizes

While the training is excellent, the true magic of Orange Conference is the community. Thousands of leaders gather in one place—people who understand the weight of ministry and the questions you wrestle with daily.

You’ll feel it in the main sessions, hear it in hallway conversations, and see it in workshop discussions. The energy that comes from being “in it” together is transformative. And those connections don’t fade when the conference ends—they become relationships that carry you forward all year long.

Whether you attend with your team or come solo, you’ll leave connected to something bigger than yourself.

3. An Experience That Lasts

Orange Conference isn’t just another event—it’s an experience. It’s engaging, intentional, and designed to refresh your mind, heart, and spirit.

What makes it unique?

• Dynamic main sessions filled with worship, real stories, and unforgettable moments.
• Creative stage design and interactive experiences that keep you engaged.
• Workshops that are both practical and personal, tackling real issues ministry leaders face.

Nick Blevins, an Orange Blogger and longtime attendee, says: “What I love most about Orange, other than the people, is how they are constantly innovating. They’re always looking to improve, tweak, and create in order to help churches win with families.”

That creative spirit makes every session impactful, ensuring you leave with actionable insights and a renewed sense of purpose.

4. A Ripple Effect That Lasts All Year

The three days of Orange Conference are just the beginning. The impact continues long after leaders return home.

How the ripple effect works:

• Leaders return with shared language for ministry.
• Teams align around a clear strategy.
• Volunteers feel more invested because leaders feel more equipped.
• Families benefit because ministries work together.
• Churches start asking better questions and getting better results.

This isn’t just about a great event—it’s about long-term ministry impact.

What’s New for Orange Conference 2025?

The 2025 theme, The Art of We, is all about working together. In a divided world, the Church has the opportunity to model unity, collaboration, and shared purpose.

This year’s speakers include:

• Lecrae
• Erwin McManus
• Rita Springer
• Jon Acuff
• Chris Heaslip
• And many more!

Every speaker brings a unique perspective, pointing leaders toward what’s possible when we stop working in silos.

Orange Conference is always evolving. While the topics and speakers change, the energy and impact remain the same. This year’s event will reflect new leadership, new technology, and a fresh vision for the future.

First-Time Attendee? Here’s What to Know

If this is your first Orange Conference, here’s what to expect:

• You don’t need to know anyone—connection happens fast.
• You won’t feel lost—everything is clearly organized and well-paced.
• You’ll want to take notes—because the ideas keep coming!
• You’ll laugh, reflect, and probably cry at least once.
• You’ll leave tired—but in the best way possible.

Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Experience:

• Bring a notebook or open a fresh doc on your phone to capture ideas.
• Write down action steps to take in your ministry immediately.
• Be intentional about meeting new people—exchange contact info!
• Don’t skip the exhibit hall—it’s packed with valuable tools and resources.

Karyn Petric, a 2023 attendee, shared: “I highly recommend Orange Conference to anyone in church leadership, not just youth and children’s ministry. The conference helped me stop, think, and reflect on what God had to say to each of us.”

Why It Still Matters

Ministry is challenging. Leading people, building strategy, and investing in the next generation takes a toll. Orange Conference is a chance to step back, refocus, and reignite your passion for ministry.

You’ll walk away encouraged, equipped, and clear on where you’re going next. That’s why leaders keep coming back.

👉 Register now for Orange Conference 2025!

The post Why Ministry Leaders Keep Coming Back to Orange Conference appeared first on Think Orange.

Are you trying to get approval for the budget or time away to attend The Orange Conference?

Let’s be honest—attending a conference is a significant investment. Tickets, travel, and lodging can add up quickly. And with Sunday always around the corner, every day out of the office feels like a challenge.

So, why should you invest in a conference?

In one word: Momentum.

For kids’ ministry and youth ministry leaders, The Orange Conference is the annual spark that drives momentum. Yes, you’ll leave with practical strategies, fresh ideas, and new connections. But the true impact comes from the encouragement, inspiration, and renewed sense of purpose that propels attendees forward for the year ahead.

With so many great conferences to choose from, here’s what makes The Orange Conference truly unique:

Why Choose The Orange Conference?

👥 A Conference for Your Entire Team
Bring your whole team—kids’ ministry, youth ministry, next-generation staff, and even senior leadership. It’s a shared experience with specialized learning for each role. The conference offers the perfect balance of tailored training and big-picture ideas for ministry alignment.

⚓ Future-Focused, Grounded in Today’s Challenges
Orange is known for its innovative strategies to help leaders build resilient faith in the next generation. At The Orange Conference, you’ll discover new methods to tackle timeless challenges with relevance and creativity.

💡 Curated Workshops to Answer Your Questions
With over 50 workshops, you can build a personalized agenda that addresses the exact challenges your ministry faces. Leave equipped with answers to the questions that matter most.

🥳 Fun is Serious Business Here
From sessions designed just for fun to moments of joy woven throughout the programming, you’ll rediscover the excitement and community that make ministry so fulfilling.

⚡ It’s More Than Just Content—It’s an Experience
This isn’t your average conference. The Orange Conference blends talks, meetups, community, resources, and even free coffee into an electric environment that recharges your team and ministry.

Why We Do This

We create this conference because we see ministry leaders struggling—burned out, feeling isolated, and questioning what’s next. At The Orange Conference, we hope to remind you: you’re not alone in what you do.

We want every leader to leave energized, equipped with practical next steps, and confident in their mission to lead the next generation toward faith.

Need Help Getting Approval?

We’ve made it easy to explain the value of The Orange Conference to your leadership team. Below, you’ll find a template you can adapt to outline why this conference is worth the investment.

Additional Resources for Ministry Leaders

• The Orange Conference Website
• 10 Hacks for a Friendly Orange Conference
• What is the Orange Strategy?
• How My Kids’ Ministry Leader Convinced Me to Say “Yes” to a Conference

Letter Template for Leadership

Subject: Request to Attend The Orange Conference

Hi [Leader’s Name],

I’d love to discuss the opportunity to attend The Orange Conference this April—a highly practical and engaging event designed to support and grow our family ministry.

Here’s why I believe this conference is worth the investment:

• It’s built for entire teams, offering specialized tracks for kids’ ministry, youth ministry, and even senior leaders.
• It provides 50+ workshops tailored to real challenges, from recruiting volunteers to addressing mental health in kids and teens.
• It’s a source of encouragement and inspiration, ensuring we return with actionable solutions and a renewed sense of purpose.

If we register by [insert date], here’s a cost estimate for our team:

• Tickets: [Ticket Price] x [# of Attendees]
• Travel: [Estimate]
• Lodging: [Estimate]

Total: [Insert Total]

For groups of 8 or more, we’d qualify for special pricing—and it would be incredible if you joined us! The conference even offers a parallel Senior Leadership Experience to align vision across ministry roles.

When I return, I’ll be ready to share key takeaways and actionable insights we can implement immediately. I believe this experience will help us better serve families in our church and grow our ministry impact.

Could we set up a time to discuss this further?

Thank you,
[Your Name]

We hope to see you in April!

The post How To Get Leadership Approval To Attend Orange Conference appeared first on Think Orange.

Worse yet, a poorly attended event could create a domino effect, leading to declining participation in future events.

We understand this struggle. Over the last 30+ years, we’ve connected nearly a million teenagers to mission trips. Based on that experience, we’ve compiled practical ideas to help spark your imagination and rally your group.

How to Get Youth On Board for Summer Events

In an ideal world, you’d announce an event, post about it on Instagram, and immediately have a full sign-up sheet. Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple. The following strategies can help you generate excitement and encourage students to commit to your events.

1. Start Early

Students’ summer calendars fill up fast with sports, camps, and other commitments. Share information about your event as soon as possible to ensure it’s on their radar.

2. Persuade Parents

Parents have a huge influence on their teens’ decisions. Communicate directly with parents about the event, emphasizing its purpose, safety, and leadership. Don’t assume students will relay the details—reach out to parents with clear, compelling messages.

3. Promote Creatively

• Incorporate Throughout the Year: Use Bible studies or small group discussions to introduce themes tied to the event. For example, if it’s a mission trip, focus on the value of serving others.
• Share Stories: Highlight impactful stories from past events. Invite students who have participated before to share their experiences.
• Cast Vision: Look ahead and paint a compelling picture of what the event could achieve for the group and individuals.
• Use Visuals: Incorporate photos, videos, or promotional materials to make your advertising stand out.
• Go In-Person: Face-to-face invitations are powerful. Personally invite students and give them something tangible, like a flyer or digital reminder.
• Leverage Peer Relationships: Recruit student leaders to help promote the event and encourage their peers to join.

Tricks of the Trade for Recruiting for Summer Events

1. Set Deadlines

Deadlines encourage timely sign-ups. While you can keep a flexible internal deadline, a firm public deadline provides accountability and urgency.

2. Offer Incentives

Motivate early sign-ups with fun rewards like picking their seat on the van, controlling the playlist, or getting a free t-shirt. Tailor incentives to what will excite your group.

3. Avoid Blank Sign-Up Sheets

Students are less likely to sign up if no one else has. Ask a few students to commit before making the sign-up sheet public. Better yet, use an online form to streamline the process.

Recruiting Adult Leaders

Adult leaders are crucial for the success of your events. Here’s how to recruit quality leaders who will enhance your students’ experience.

What to Look For

Seek leaders who are:

• Safe: Non-negotiable. Trustworthy leaders prioritize safety above all else.
• An Example: Adults who model Christ-like behavior and are worth following.
• Responsible: Leaders who can stay organized, keep track of students, and follow directions.
• Relational: Adults who naturally connect with students and foster community.
• Known: People already involved in students’ lives.
• Flexible: Adaptable to the surprises that come with youth ministry.
• Committed: Leaders who align with your vision and are willing to follow through.

Where to Look

• Current youth staff and volunteers
• Church staff, parents, and congregation members
• Former students (over age 20)
• Students’ recommendations

How to Ask

• Invite Personally: Individual invitations are more effective than general announcements.
• Give Deadlines: Allow time for leaders to consider the opportunity but provide a follow-up date.
• Cover Costs: Paying for leaders communicates their value and shows appreciation for their time.

Trust the Process

Despite your best efforts, some factors—like unexpected illnesses or schedule changes—are out of your control. Pray for guidance and trust that God will work through your events, no matter the turnout.

With these strategies, you can inspire excitement, build momentum, and create meaningful summer experiences for your students and leaders.

Looking for a summer experience for your youth ministry? Check out a trip with YouthWorks.

The post How to Get More Students & Adults to Sign Up for Summer Events    appeared first on Think Orange.

Inspiration to Reignite Your Passion

Ministry can be demanding, often leaving leaders feeling drained or stuck in routines. The Orange Conference is designed to rejuvenate your spirit and reignite your passion for your work. Through dynamic main stage presentations and breakout sessions, you’ll hear from some of the most influential voices in ministry and culture. These thought leaders share stories, strategies, and insights that challenge you to think differently and dream bigger.

For many, ministry is more than a job; it’s a calling. Yet, even the most devoted leaders need moments of inspiration to reconnect with their purpose. The Orange Conference provides these moments in abundance, offering fresh perspectives that can breathe new life into your vision and mission.

Practical Tools for Real-World Impact

While inspiration is essential, practical application is equally important. The Orange Conference ensures that attendees leave with actionable strategies tailored to real-world challenges. This year, Orange Conference features over 50 sessions and workshops covering a wide array of topics, including:

• Team Building: Learn how to foster collaboration and unity within your ministry team.
• Orange Strategy Essentials: Dive into the core principles that connect church and home to influence the next generation.
• Leadership Development: Gain insights into cultivating leadership skills that empower your team and community.

A Community of Like-Minded Leaders

Ministry can often feel isolating, especially when navigating complex issues or attempting to innovate. The Orange Conference brings together thousands of leaders from around the globe, creating an environment ripe for connection and collaboration. Networking opportunities abound, from casual conversations in the hallways to structured meetups and workshops.

One of the standout aspects of this year’s conference is the Senior Leaders Experience, a dedicated track for senior pastors and church leaders. This unique gathering focuses on investing in the faith of the next generation while addressing the distinct challenges senior leaders face. By engaging with peers who share your role and responsibilities, you’ll gain valuable insights and form relationships that can provide long-term support and encouragement.

Discovering Joy in Ministry

Let’s face it: ministry is serious work, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. The Orange Conference recognizes the power of joy in creating impactful experiences, both for leaders and their communities. From moments of worship to comedy and entertainment, the event strikes a balance between profound inspiration and lighthearted enjoyment.

This intentional infusion of fun isn’t just about having a good time; it’s a reminder that laughter and connection are vital components of a healthy ministry. By embracing these moments, you’ll return to your team and congregation with a renewed sense of energy and purpose.

Innovative Scheduling for Maximum Engagement

The 2025 Orange Conference introduces a remixed schedule designed to enhance the experience for attendees. By balancing main sessions, workshops, meetups, and team time, the event ensures that every moment is impactful. This structure allows leaders to dive deep into critical topics while still having the space to reflect, connect, and strategize.

The Exhibit Hall is another highlight of the conference’s innovative approach. This space showcases a variety of organizations and partners offering tools and resources to help you enhance your ministry. The Exhibit Hall serves as a one-stop shop for discovering new ways to elevate your impact.

Investing in the Next Generation

At its core, The Orange Conference is about changing the faith and futures of the next generation. By emphasizing the partnership between church and home, the conference equips leaders with the strategies needed to create a cohesive approach to spiritual development.

This year’s theme places a special focus on empowering families and communities to take active roles in shaping the faith journeys of kids and teenagers. Through innovative workshops and discussions, you’ll learn how to:

• Equip parents to be spiritual leaders in their homes.
• Foster meaningful relationships between kids, teenagers, and adult mentors.
• Develop programs that resonate with the unique needs of the next generation.

These insights are more than theoretical; they’re practical steps you can implement to create lasting change.

What’s New in 2025

The Orange Conference 2025 is packed with exciting additions that make this year’s event especially impactful:

• Remixed Schedule: A thoughtfully redesigned agenda ensures a seamless balance between learning, connecting, and strategizing.
• PreConference Intensives: Four-hour sessions offer deep dives into specific topics, providing an intensive learning experience.
• Senior Leaders Experience: A dedicated track tailored for senior pastors and church leaders.
• Exhibit Hall: A dynamic space featuring partners and organizations offering resources for effective ministry.
• A Timely Theme: We’ll explore one simple thing every church can do to change everything for the next generation. 

These enhancements are designed to meet the evolving needs of ministry leaders, ensuring that every attendee finds value in their experience.

Why You Can’t Afford to Miss It

The Orange Conference isn’t just another event; it’s a catalyst for transformation. By attending, you’ll gain:

1. Renewed Vision: Rediscover why you do what you do and how to do it more effectively.
2. Practical Strategies: Learn actionable steps to address challenges and seize opportunities in your ministry.
3. A Supportive Network: Connect with like-minded leaders who share your passion and challenges.
4. Spiritual Rejuvenation: Return to your community recharged and ready to lead with purpose and joy.

The demands of ministry are great, but so are the rewards. The Orange Conference 2025 offers the inspiration, tools, and connections needed to ensure that your efforts not only meet the moment but shape the future.

Register Today

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself, your team, and your ministry. Registration for The Orange Conference 2025 is now open. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or new to ministry, this event promises to provide the insights and encouragement you need to make a lasting impact this year. Visit The Orange Conference website to learn more and secure your spot.

This year, let The Orange Conference be the catalyst that transforms your ministry. Together, we can create a brighter future for the next generation.

The post How The Orange Conference Can Shape Your Ministry This Year appeared first on Think Orange.

Why Marketing Your VBS Matters

Marketing your Vacation Bible School isn’t just about getting the word out; it’s about creating a bridge that connects your church to families, kids, and your broader community. When done right, an effective marketing strategy can:

1. Increase Participation

A well-marketed VBS ensures that your event reaches its full potential. When people know what to expect and how much fun their kids will have, they’re more likely to sign up. Research shows that parents are more likely to enroll their kids in a program when they see consistent and compelling promotion. Highlighting your VBS theme, sharing engaging visuals, and emphasizing key details like dates and activities can create excitement and encourage registrations.

2. Reach New Families

Your VBS is arguably one of the best outreach opportunities your church has each year. Strategic marketing allows you to extend your reach beyond your regular attendees to families in the community who may not currently have a church home. People are more likely to consider attending a church event if they hear about it through social media or a personal invite. By utilizing multiple marketing channels—from social media to local partnerships—you can connect with families who might not otherwise step foot in a church.

3. Build Excitement in Your Church

When your congregation sees the buzz surrounding your VBS, they’re more likely to get involved as attendees or volunteers. A well-communicated campaign inspires ownership, making VBS a unifying event for your church community. Highlighting sneak peeks, countdowns, and behind-the-scenes moments can amplify excitement among both your team and participants.

Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience is crucial for crafting messages that resonate and connect. When promoting your VBS program, it’s essential to recognize the different groups you’re targeting. Each group has unique motivations, needs, and desires. Here’s a quick breakdown of key groups and how to tailor your messaging for each:

1. Parents

Parents are focused on the long-term impact your VBS will have on their children. They want to know that their kids will not only have fun but also grow in faith, build friendships, and be safe while attending.

Messaging Tips:

• Highlight the spiritual and developmental benefits for their children.
• Emphasize how the experience will help kids understand essential life lessons.
• Offer reassurance about the safety, care, and trustworthiness of the program.

Example:
“Give your kids a summer full of fun AND faith! Our VBS program will help them grow closer to God while making lifelong friendships. Plus, it’s safe, welcoming, and designed with your child’s growth in mind!”

2. Kids

Kids are all about having fun and experiencing something exciting. They want an action-packed VBS full of games, creativity, and new adventures.

Messaging Tips:

• Focus on excitement, adventure, and the thrill of participating in activities.
• Use vibrant, playful language that sparks imagination and curiosity.
• Make it sound like something they won’t want to miss!

Example:
“Get ready for the BEST week of summer! Games, crafts, new friends, and tons of fun—VBS is the place to be!”

3. Volunteers

Volunteers are motivated by the opportunity to serve, make a difference, and be a part of something bigger than themselves. They want to know how their time will have a meaningful impact on the kids and the community.

Messaging Tips:

• Appeal to their sense of purpose, emphasizing how their involvement will change lives.
• Show appreciation for their commitment and highlight the sense of community and teamwork.
• Be clear about the role they’ll play and how they can make a direct impact.

Example:
“Want to make a real difference this summer? Join our VBS team and help kids grow in faith! It’s a chance to serve, connect, and be part of an amazing community.”

4. Community Members

Community members, whether they’re friends, neighbors, or church supporters, want to know how VBS impacts the local area. They may not have children involved, but they care about supporting meaningful initiatives.

Messaging Tips:

• Highlight the positive impact the event will have on the community.
• Focus on the outreach and relationship-building aspects of VBS.
• Invite them to participate, volunteer, or support in any way.

Example:
“VBS is more than just a fun event—it’s a chance for our community to come together and make a lasting impact on the next generation. Want to be a part of it? There’s still time to help!”

Create a Marketing Timeline

A well-organized marketing timeline is essential for building momentum and ensuring a successful VBS event. Starting early and strategically planning your communications will help you reach your target audience at just the right time. Here’s a breakdown of what to focus on in the 6-8 weeks leading up to your VBS:

3 Months Before VBS: Start with a Big Announcement

At this point, it’s all about creating awareness. Begin with a strong, attention-grabbing announcement. Use a variety of channels, including flyers that can be distributed at church events, email blasts to your ministry’s contact list, and Sunday morning stage announcements to reach parents and church members. You want to make sure that your community knows the dates, theme, and registration information early, so they have time to plan ahead. This is also a great time to spark interest with a teaser video or post on social media.

2 Months Before VBS: Launch Registration

By week four, it’s time to move beyond awareness and start driving action. Launch your online registration process (if you use one) and make sure it’s easy to find and complete. Share links on social media and in email campaigns, and highlight any early bird pricing or discounts. This is also a great time to share promotional videos on social media—showing snippets of what kids will experience, the fun activities, and the impact they’ll have. The goal is to get families excited and committed to signing up early.

1 Month Before VBS: Highlight Daily Themes & Volunteer Opportunities

As VBS draws closer, it’s important to stay top-of-mind and create a sense of urgency. Post regular reminders about registration deadlines and encourage people to sign up if they haven’t already. Each week, highlight a different day or activity from the VBS schedule. Highlight volunteer opportunities as well, especially for those looking for ways to serve. People may not realize they can help, so make sure to provide clear instructions on how to get involved. Sharing personal testimonies or stories from past volunteers can also be a great motivator.

2 Weeks Before VBS: Reminders & Last Call

As the countdown to VBS continues, focus on creating urgency and reaching a broader audience. Post reminders emphasizing limited spots to encourage last-minute registrations. Boost your event on Facebook to connect with more local families who may not have heard about VBS yet. Finally, share heartfelt testimonials, especially from first-time attendees, to inspire others and highlight the life-changing impact of your program.

1 Week Before VBS: Build Excitement

The final week is all about building excitement and creating buzz around the event. Use countdowns on social media to remind everyone that VBS is just around the corner. Share behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, like photos of decorations in progress or leaders preparing for the big day. You could also feature short video clips from volunteers or staff members expressing their enthusiasm and what they’re most excited about. The goal is to create a sense of anticipation and remind everyone that this is an event they won’t want to miss!

By following this timeline and pacing your marketing efforts, you’ll be able to generate excitement, increase registrations, and ensure that your VBS is well-attended and impactful.

Leverage Free & Easy Tools

Maximize your marketing reach with tools that are both free and easy to use! Social media is a powerful way to connect with your audience—post regularly on Facebook, Instagram, and local community groups. Don’t forget to include stories, reels, and shareable content that spreads the word fast. Email campaigns are also key—craft clear, catchy subject lines and include direct links to register or volunteer. For design needs, Canva is a game-changer—create everything from flyers to social media graphics without any design experience. If you’re using Live It Out this year, check out our Canva Template Toolkit, which is ready and available for you to use in your marketing. Lastly, make the most of church announcements, using bulletins, slides, or even videos during Sunday services to keep the buzz going. These tools are simple, cost-effective ways to get your message out and rally support!

Build Excitement Online

Building excitement online is a fun and engaging way to get your community pumped up for VBS! One great method is to launch a social media challenge, like a countdown to the big day by using themed hashtags. For example, try something like #VBSCountdown to get people involved and share the excitement as the event approaches.

Videos are also a powerful tool—post short, fun clips of your team prepping for VBS, decorating the space, or talking about the heart behind the theme. These behind-the-scenes moments help humanize the event and show the passion that goes into making VBS special.

Don’t forget to include testimonials! Share stories or quotes from kids and parents who had a blast at previous VBS events. Seeing VBS’s positive impact on others can motivate families to get involved and create anticipation for this year’s program!

Retain Momentum After VBS

The excitement doesn’t have to end when VBS does! Keep the momentum going by sending follow-up emails to all attendees featuring photos and highlights from the event. This keeps the experience fresh in their minds and shows them how much fun and impact they were a part of.

Invite families to stay connected by promoting upcoming church events or small groups. Let them know there are more opportunities for their kids to continue growing in faith and community.

Finally, share a survey to gather feedback and ideas for next year. Not only does this show you value their input, but it also helps you improve and plan an even better VBS next time around!

Set Your VBS Up for Success

Marketing your VBS is about more than just spreading the word—it’s about creating meaningful connections with families, kids, and your community. By understanding your audience, crafting a strategic timeline, and leveraging the right tools, you can ensure your VBS is impactful and well-attended.Ready to take your marketing to the next level? Check out the VBS Promotion Timeline in the VBS Planner, available on our Director’s Hub. This resource, along with the rest of our library, is designed to equip and empower VBS directors like you to plan, promote, and execute a successful event. Visit the Director’s Hub today and get started!

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