When I joined ReTreet in the summer of 2023, a small, startup vacation rental resort tucked away in Northeast Alabama, nobody was betting on us to make waves. We were the definition of an underdog—modest budget, no big-name recognition, and no fancy marketing tools. Competing against the well-established southeastern resorts with their deep pockets and flashy PPC ads felt like trying to climb a mountain barefoot.
But that’s the thing about being underestimated: it gives you room to get creative.
In just one year, ReTreet grew from $200K in revenue to $800K—a staggering 276% increase—without spending a single penny on PPC ads. And let me tell you, nobody saw us coming. This wasn’t just growth; it was a statement.
Here’s how we gave the competition a run for their money and proved that creativity and strategy can beat big budgets any day.
Step 1: Betting on Connection, Not Clicks
When you’re the little guy, you don’t win by playing the same game as the big players—you change the game entirely. For us, that meant leaning into influencer marketing, not PPC ads, and rethinking how we connect with potential guests.
Since the fall of 2023, we’ve welcomed nearly 100 creators, making their stay more than just a visit—it’s a story in itself. Our collaborations focus on the creators’ unique experiences rather than directly showcasing ReTreet. From features in print ads, such as placements alongside the Miss Alabama announcement in Alabama Living Magazine, to authentic social content, we’ve prioritized creators whose values and audiences align perfectly with our ideal guests. These micro-influencers specialize in capturing the magic of a weekend escape, the wonder of a starlit evening, and the joy of a family adventure, letting their experiences speak for themselves.
By focusing on micro-influencers, we’ve tapped into authentic, niche communities: couples planning romantic escapes, families searching for one-of-a-kind experiences, and nature lovers craving a luxurious glamping retreat. These creators share genuine moments from our property with audiences who trust them, making their recommendations far more impactful than generic ads.
The goal wasn’t reach—it was relevance. We didn’t need millions of eyes; we needed the right eyes. By collaborating with influencers who genuinely resonate with our audience, we’ve created a marketing strategy that feels personal, not promotional. Every post, story, and reel becomes a conversation, sparking curiosity and driving bookings from people who can picture themselves here, making memories of their own.
Step 2: Crafting Unforgettable Partnerships
With every influencer partnership, we approached it like a collaboration, not a transaction. We invited influencers to experience ReTreet in a way that felt personal, meaningful, and tailored to their audience’s interests.
We curated stays that were as Instagram-worthy as they were authentic—think stargazing events in a luxurious glass dome, kayaking on serene lakes, and cozy evenings by the firepit. These weren’t just moments for content; they were stories that resonated.
When influencers shared their experiences, it didn’t feel like ads—it felt like genuine recommendations. And that’s the kind of trust money can’t buy.
Step 3: Building Buzz That Wouldn’t Quit
Most marketing campaigns come and go like fireworks—bright for a moment, then gone. We wanted something that would keep sparkling long after the first post.
So, instead of a quick influencer blitz, we built long-term relationships. Influencers became advocates, sharing ReTreet not just once but consistently throughout the year. Seasonal campaigns, special events, and follow-up content kept the momentum going, creating a drumbeat of excitement that never died down.
The numbers speak for themselves: in just 12 months, we cut our ad budget in half and achieved a 236% increase in income through our influencer marketing efforts. Our partnerships with micro-influencers generated over 2,400 new leads per quarter and hundreds of bookings, driving both awareness and direct revenue. By focusing on authentic connections and sustained storytelling, we turned influencer marketing into a cornerstone of our success.
Step 4: Turning Engagement Into Revenue
Attention is great, but we all know it doesn’t pay the bills. What mattered most was converting that attention into bookings.
We crafted irresistible offers and used storytelling to highlight what made ReTreet special—pet-friendly stays, breathtaking natural settings, and the magic of reconnecting with loved ones.
The result?
- 2,400 new leads per quarter.
- A 40% conversion rate.
- $800K in revenue in just 12 months.
The Impact: A Community, Not Just Customers
What started as a campaign to drive revenue became something much bigger. We built a community of loyal guests who weren’t just visitors—they were advocates. They shared their experiences, left glowing reviews, and came back for more.
And in an industry where loyalty is everything, this was our secret weapon.
The Recognition: Featured in Audacious by Mark Schaefer
Our underdog success didn’t just shake up the competition—it caught the attention of one of marketing’s most influential voices. Mark Schaefer, a Top Voice in Personal Branding and the bestselling author of Marketing Rebellion and KNOWN, features ReTreet’s success story in his upcoming book, Audacious launching in February 2025.
Being recognized by someone of Mark’s caliber is a testament to what’s possible when you think outside the box, trust your instincts, and refuse to let a small budget limit your vision.
The Underdog Playbook
ReTreet’s success wasn’t about flashy ads or massive spend. It was about betting on connection, creativity, and the power of authenticity.
For every small business or startup out there feeling overshadowed by bigger competitors, let this be your reminder: You don’t need the biggest budget to make the biggest impact. You just need a strategy that speaks to people’s hearts—and keeps them coming back for more.
