This week’s Wednesday Wisdom comes from Haze Carver of the Norfolk Chambers of Commerce – an organisation dedicated to empowering local businesses and strengthening our county’s economy.
We spoke to Haze about how the Chambers can best support local events and businesses, the common challenges faced by event organisers across Norfolk, and the marketing tactics that truly make a difference when promoting local events. She also shared her top advice for those planning their first event in the region – offering practical insights and encouragement drawn from her experience supporting Norfolk’s vibrant business community.
1. How can the Norfolk Chambers of Commerce support local events and businesses?
We’re here to connect people, amplify what’s happening locally, and give voice to every business in Norfolk – helping them to thrive – including through events. Some of the ways we can support:
- Getting the word out – We can help raise visibility through our member updates, social channels and events calendar, so your event reaches the right people.
- Offering space and support – Whether that’s co-hosting, offering a venue, or simply helping make connections, we’re always happy to explore ways to collaborate.
- Logistics and local know-how – We often advise on things like sponsorship, exhibitor stands, and what works well at Norfolk shows and pop-ups — it’s about making your event as business-friendly as possible.
- Sharing useful content – Through our soon-to-be-launched knowledge Hub and member resources, we will offer tips, templates, and real-world advice to make planning smoother.
- Connecting into wider networks – We link organisers to communities like Co.next, our young professionals network, or growth-minded SMEs — so events can lead to long-term opportunities, not just one-off interactions.
2. What are common challenges you’ve seen or experienced for Norfolk event organisers?
My fabulous colleague, Shelley Rudling – our incredible Events Manager, says there are a few things we hear time and again:
- Getting the right people to attend – Reaching your target audience and cutting through the noise is often harder than expected.
- Sponsorship and funding – It’s tricky balancing ambition with budget, and partnerships often take longer to firm up than people think.
- Logistics slipping under the radar – Things like venue access, signage, timings, refreshments, and even parking can catch people out if not planned early.
- Standing out in a busy calendar – There’s no shortage of events in Norfolk, so making yours feel different (and worth the time) can be a challenge.
- Keeping momentum going afterwards – A great event is just the start — but without a clear follow-up plan, all that energy can fizzle out.
3. Which marketing tactics have you found work best for promoting local events?
It really depends on your audience, but a few things consistently work well:
- Get in early with a ‘save the date’ – And pair it with strong, shareable visuals. It helps people plan and gives you more lead time.
- Tap into your existing networks – Ask partners, speakers, and sponsors to share it — word of mouth and peer recommendations go a long way locally – Norfolk has a fantastic business community.
- Use a mix of channels – LinkedIn for business, Instagram and Facebook for general community, and email newsletters to land directly in inboxes. Countdown posts and behind-the-scenes content help build interest.
- Lead with value, not just invites – Tell people why they should come – what they’ll take away, who they’ll meet, how it’ll help them. A little storytelling goes a long way – and we love a story!
- Involve local press and partners – Community radio, regional magazines, or even shared posts from other local orgs can expand your reach. It really is all about your network.
- Don’t forget the follow-up – A post-event thank you (with a few great photos or quotes) keeps the good feeling going and sets the tone for your next event.Great for your socials too!
4. What’s your top advice for first-time event organisers in Norfolk?
If I had to pick three key bits of advice:
- Know what success looks like for you – Whether it’s 30 brilliant conversations or 300 attendees, be clear on your goal from the start. It’ll help you shape everything else.
- Bring people in early – The more you involve local businesses, the Chamber, community groups, and potential sponsors up front, the more momentum you’ll build.
- Plan for what happens next – Think beyond the day itself: How will you stay in touch with attendees? Can you share content afterwards? What’s the next step in the conversation?
To learn more about the Norfolk Chambers of Commerce and the fantastic Co.Next serve, visit Norfolk Chambers of Commerce or Co.Next – look out for the fantastic Co.nextalks at The Playhouse taking place in January Co.nextalks at The Playhouse – Norfolk Chambers of Commerce
