Church Mailer Ideas
In a way, a church is a business. Churches often want to bring in new "patrons" and speak to them about their product - God. Just like any other business, marketing materials like mailers are a great way for potential congregation members to learn more about your services, activities and mission. Even clubs and non-profit organizations send out mailers and newsletters to get buzz going. When done well, a mailer is an excellent way for your church to spread the word.
Other People Are Reading
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Print vs. Email
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If the majority of your congregation is elderly, consider if they can access emailers. Decide whether to send a print mailer or an eblast. Consider cost, age of your target market and interest level of your congregation. According to David Gruttadaurio of Duct Tape Marketing, print newsletters are not just a thing of the past. They get delivered (no need to worry if they'll go to spam), they offer comfortable reading and they have a higher perceived value. He also noted that a 2006 Nielsen Norman Group Report showed that a standard email newsletter gets only 51 seconds of attention from its reader. If, however, your congregation has decided on or requested mailers, an email blast will likely work because readers will be expecting to receive such mail. Email mailers are much cheaper and allow for flexibility and creativity. Creating the eblasts will require computer skills, as will reading them.
Marketing Content
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If you want your mailers designed to bring in new members and encourage participation or request donations, your mailers should have a marketing spin. Use creative language that will evoke a desire to participate. Consider using inspirational quotes and Bible quotes or consider having a theme for each mailer you send out.
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Scheduling Content
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If you want to announce upcoming events, sermon subjects and church-related activities, consider using your mailer as an "upcoming events" announcement. Some email blasts may even include a calendar or a link to an online calendar where congregation members can view and RSVP to upcoming activities. Such mailers can be created using programs like Constant Contact and MailChimp.
Discounts
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Sure, your church probably isn't charging an admission fee to the main event - the sermons - but perhaps you do have other events where you can offer discounts. For example, does your church have a weekly Wednesday night meal where each family pays a small fee to dine? If so, consider a buy-one-get-one-free to encourage bring-a-friend participation. People generally respond to free and discounted deals so that could be a suitable approach for a church. Use eye-catching logos, images and colors for an added effect.
Giveaways
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Get creative by sending mailers that aren't just paper. Companies such as Kaeser Best Buys and True Summit Promotions allow you to purchase a variety of items like coffee mugs, pens, key chains, bookmarks and T-shirts with custom designed logos and text. For example, you can send your congregation a customized calendar with all the sermons already written in it or a bookmark with Bible quotes.
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References
Resources
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