Here's what to do next
In episode 2 of 'Marketing the Murder Barn,' hosts Meredith and Mary Claire introduce the STAR Framework to help Sarah identify her venue's superpowers despite its dark history. They explore how to turn the barn's murder backstory into a unique selling proposition, focusing on Strengths, Timing/Trends, Areas for Growth, and client Requests. The episode teaches venue owners to craft compelling brand stories that transform challenges into marketing assets, positioning unconventional features as desirable selling points for adventurous couples.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN WHEN YOU DIVE INTO THIS MODULE:
EP. 2: Lean into the Story + a Focus on Superpowers
EP. 2: Lean into the Story + a Focus on Superpowers
Refer to the time-stamped show notes below when you want to revisit any particular portions of the episode.
listen to the podcast
SHOW NOTES:
0:15 Welcome to episode 2!
2:01 The backstory of our business fable
3:29 An intro to unique selling propositions and venue superpowers
3:59 what are venue superpowers and why we really need them
5:06 The dreaded “spaghetti method”
5:30 How to begin identifying a venue’s superpowers
5:40 Introducing the STAR format
6:18 Breaking down what STAR stands for
7:16 How to find a different point of view and identify your superpowers
9:32 Considering what your competitors can’t do
11:30 Incorporating quick wins and long term investments for your venue
12:20 How to deal with requests from couples
14:18 Check out our STAR worksheet!
14:53 How to define your unique selling proposition
17:01 How venues can leverage their superpowers in their marketing
19:20 The key is leaning into what makes your venue special
19:33 Check out the Venue Story Blueprint!
19:52 What is next for Sarah? A look into the next episode
20:48 Thanks for listening!
Identify your venue's Strengths, Timing, Areas for Growth, and Client Requests to find what makes you unique.
Even challenging features can become selling points when positioned for the right couples.
Craft a concise pitch that captures what makes your venue special and use it everywhere.
The Venue Story Blueprint
The Venue Story Brand Blueprint helps venues create compelling narratives connecting with ideal couples. It structures your brand through Core Story (origin, values, mission), Value Proposition (unique features, differentiators), and Emotional Connection (personality, experience). Examples show how different venues - historic barns, rooftop spaces, hotel ballrooms - can craft distinct stories that resonate with their target couples.
FRAMEWORK
The STAR Framework Worksheet helps venues systematically evaluate their business through four key areas: Strengths & Superpowers (unique features, client praise, wow factors), Timing & Trends (peak seasons, market alignment), Areas for Growth (quick wins vs long-term investments), and client Requests (addressing gaps). It includes space to list top features, identify improvement opportunities, and create actionable next steps.
The STAR Framework
WORKSHEET
YOUR TOOLS FOR THIS MODULE
This worksheet guides venues through creating their brand story in four steps: Core Story Elements (origin, values, vision), Value Proposition (unique features and exclusives), Target Audience (ideal couple profile and priorities), and Story Creation (fill-in-the-blank template). The final output is a cohesive narrative connecting venue history, features, and couple desires into compelling marketing copy.
The Venue Story Blueprint
WORKSHEET
You know those people who can instantly pull you out of a funk with a one-liner that has you literally LOL'ing? That's Mary Claire: witty, sharp, and comfortable in her own skin. Since joining our team, we can't imagine functioning without her. When she's not chatting with clients and brightening their day, she's outdoors with her family or designing jewelry. She's the ultimate gem.
MARY CLAIRE NEWCOMB
Meredith Monday Schwartz started at Here Comes The Guide in 1997 (we didn't even have a website back then—there might also have been dinosaurs running around!) and was a wedding venue specialist for 10 years before taking over as Chief Bossypants in 2007. In the years since she joined HCTG, she's learned a lot about wedding couples, wedding venues, and running a company profitably—and well.
MEREDITH MONDAY SCHWARTZ
