What They Promise vs. What Actually Deliver AI-led marketing platforms like Zeely, AdCreative tools, auto-funnel builders, and “AI ad managers” are everywhere right now. They’re sweet looking, highly polished, and deliver messaging that’s extremely confident in what they claim they can do. They promise: Faster content Lower ad spend Automated sales Growth without strategy, staff, or friction These promises are powerful because they speak directly to exhaustion. Business owner

In 2026, more people are intentionally spending less time online, and the data shows it’s improving focus, wellbeing, and clarity. This shift is not hurting marketing. It’s changing what effective marketing looks like. Today’s platforms reward relevance, usefulness, and meaningful engagement, not constant posting or endless scrolling. That means small businesses can step back personally and professionally to live more “analog,” while still maintaining a strong online presence

Every year, marketing conversations tend to swing between extremes. Either social media is everything, or it’s “dying.” Either urgency works, or people are burned out. The reality is, the messaging our brand puts out into the world is significant, and we get to choose how it impacts our community, city, country, and world. As we head into 2026, this isn’t about abandoning social media or reacting to fear-based headlines. It’s about continuing to lead with integrity while expa

It's time to face the facts...artificial intelligence is dramatically changing how small businesses approach marketing. When used effectively, AI can save time, improve consistency, and enhance effectiveness. Used quickly, and without strategy, insight, or intention, Chat GPT and the like create generic content that erodes trust and adds unnecessary digital noise in an already chaotic digital world. At Bowerbird, we believe AI belongs in marketing and see it as bringing treme

Marketing can feel like a guessing game for small business owners. You’re told to post more, email more, spend more, but how much is actually enough  to make a measurable impact? At The Bowerbird Agency, we believe data should guide every marketing move. Here’s a look at what businesses can realistically expect from different levels of marketing effort—based on current benchmarks, not wishful thinking. 1. No Marketing Reality: You’re invisible unless someone already knows you

Building a thriving community is essential for any brand, organization, or group aiming to foster loyalty, increase engagement, and...

The holidays are make-or-break for many small retailers. With shipping delays, inflation, and cautious shoppers, you need a plan that...

As a small business owner or marketing manager, staying ahead of ever-changing algorithms and tactics can feel like a full-time job. But...

As artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and others become more common in consumer search, small businesses are...

At The Bowerbird Agency, we don’t treat inclusivity as a checkbox or a seasonal strategy. It’s part of who we are. Not because it makes...

You’ve posted. Boosted. Reposted...But despite all that effort… your inbox is quiet, your sales are flat, and you’re left wondering:...

For years, Meta (formerly Facebook) has dominated the digital marketing landscape, offering businesses powerful tools to reach their...

Heads up, entrepreneurs! Instagram has officially ditched the square and embraced a new 4:5 vertical format for its photo grid. While...

You've built a thriving business. You're an expert in your field, you understand your customers, and you're passionate about what you do....

Feeling overwhelmed by the ever-changing world of digital marketing? You're not alone. Many small business owners find themselves jumping...

Remember when you could post something on Facebook and your entire audience would see it? Those days are long gone. While organic social...

Are you tired of feeling like you're constantly creating content, but not seeing the results you want? Do you wish there was a way to get...

Small Business Saturday is a fantastic opportunity for service-based businesses to shine! Here's how you can leverage the day to attract...

We applaud the entrepreneurial spirit! Tackling your marketing in-house is a great way to get started, but there comes a point where DIY...

As the year winds down and Q4 approaches, hyper-local retail and service-based businesses are at a critical juncture to maximize their...