In Nigeria’s fast-paced event scene from high-class weddings in Lagos, star-studded concerts in Abuja, to lavish owambes in Port Harcourt one truth stands tall: Your success is tied to the strength of your connections. As an event planner, your caterers, DJs, photographers, decorators, MCs, and even security teams are more than just service providers they are powerful allies in building your brand. When you work with them for cross-promotion, you’re not just delivering a great event… you’re also boosting your publicity and visibility. If you want to dominate the Nigerian event industry, here’s how to partner with vendors for mutual growth the Shows.ng way.

1. See Vendors as Marketing Partners Not Just Contractors

Every vendor you hire comes with their own following. Some have thousands of Instagram fans, loyal clients, or a strong WhatsApp broadcast list. When you combine your audiences, the exposure multiplies.

Example: Planning a wedding? If your decorator posts the stunning venue setup, ensure they tag your event brand. If the makeup artist shares a behind-the-scenes video, your handle should be there too. Each post becomes free advertising for you.

2. Use Social Media for Joint Promotions

Platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp are goldmines for visibility. Create a strategy with your vendors for joint posts that show you’re working together. Nigerians love seeing that “teamwork spirit,” and it positions you as a professional who works with the best.

Pro Tip: Create a private WhatsApp group for all vendors on an event. Coordinate who posts what, and when. This way, your content rollout feels organized, not random.

3. Credit is Currency Always Give and Get It

Whenever you post event photos or videos, tag every vendor involved. Most will repost your content to their own followers, expanding your reach instantly. Likewise, ask them to credit you when sharing their own shots.

Example Caption:

“Shoutout to @cakesbynkechi and @sammysounds for making this Lagos wedding unforgettable! Event magic powered by us at @planit_events 💃🔥”

4. Collaborate on Giveaways & Discounts

If there’s one thing Nigerians love, it’s awoof (freebies). Team up with your vendors to run giveaways or special joint discounts.

Example: A contest where the winner gets a free makeup session from your MUA partner plus a discount on your event planning services. It attracts new clients and builds excitement around your brand.

5. Show the Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Magic

People love seeing the hard work that happens before the lights come on. Share BTS clips or photos showing the setup process from the DJ testing sound to the decorator arranging centerpieces. Tag all vendors so everyone’s audience gets a peek.

Example Post:

“Lagos surprise party loading… Big love to our dream team making it happen! 🔥”

6. Build Relationships Beyond the Event Day

Don’t only contact vendors a week before the event. Build genuine relationships year-round. Recommend them to your clients, and they’ll return the favor. Many referrals in the Nigerian event industry happen through vendor-to-vendor connections.

In Nigeria’s competitive event space, collaboration is your secret weapon. When you join forces with vendors, you multiply your reach, boost your credibility, and attract bigger clients. If you’re an event planner, vendor, or brand looking to stay ahead, make Shows.ng your go-to platform to connect, collaborate, and showcase your work. The more your name pops up across different events and vendors’ pages, the faster your brand becomes a household name.

Remember: Cross-promotion is not just a strategy… it’s a hustle that pays.