The Social Scoop December 2024 by SouthernSocialMedia

from the ceo

After seven years of running Southern Social, I can confidently say that business ownership is not for the faint of heart. This year has taught me that, despite successes and all the years of experience, the challenges only grow— and so must we. It’s an everyday “roll up your sleeves” kind of life that takes commitment, grit, and a willingness to tackle tough conversations, sleepless nights, and that ever-present whisper of imposter syndrome. Yes, even after all this time, I still feel it.

In fact, 2024 has been my worst year for imposter syndrome yet. I went through what I can only describe as a “mid-life business branding crisis”—honestly, I even tried rebranding the agency, thinking that maybe what I needed was a completely fresh start. Who was I kidding? No, Keisha. This year reminded me that it wasn’t about starting over; it was about going deeper, trusting the foundation we’ve built, and strengthening our purpose. All jokes aside, these three lessons have become essential to me this year.

1. RESILIENCE ISN’T JUST A BUZZWORD—IT’S A MUSCLE

This year put resilience to the ultimate test. Between unexpected financial setbacks and personal struggles, I learned that resilience is less about the ability to “bounce back” and more about pushing through, even when it feels impossible. Every hurdle has made me dig deeper, reminding me that every challenge brings me closer to a sharper vision of where we’re headed.

2. ADAPTATION IS THE LIFEBLOOD OF LEADERSHIP

Staying adaptable in this ever-evolving landscape has been essential. There’s nothing predictable about running a business, and being ready to pivot at any moment is just part of the deal. I’ve come to see adaptability as the key to staying grounded in our mission while also being flexible enough to meet our clients’ changing needs and embrace new opportunities. Adaptation keeps us engaged and open to growth.

3.

COMMUNITY AND

SUPPORT ARE ESSENTIAL FOR SUCCESS

Lastly, I’m learning that building a strong support system is everything. This year, more than ever, the power of community—both within our team and our client relationships—has kept me grounded. Being surrounded by people who support, challenge, and inspire us fuels our creativity and pushes us to be the best we can be.

As we head into 2025, I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who has been part of this journey, through all the highs and lows. Here’s to resilience, adaptability, and the strength we find in each other.

Keisha Olds CEO & Founder, Southern Social Editor, The Social Scoop

‘There’s nothing predictable about running a business...’

WHY 2025 IS THE YEAR TO HIRE THIRD-PARTY CONTENT AND SOCIAL MEDIA TEAMS

As businesses map out their budgets for the new year, many are realizing they’re already behind in creating and securing their Q1 plans. In a digital landscape that thrives on content and social engagement, social media management and content creation are two investments that can no longer be sidelined. Here are the top three reasons brands need to prioritize third-party content development and social media expertise as they head into 2025—and some tips on how to reallocate existing budgets to make it happen.

expertise and efficiency: LET THE PROS HANDLE THE WORK

Social media and content creation are ever-evolving, demanding attention to trends, analytics, and timing that few business owners have time to manage alone. By hiring a specialized team, you’re not only bringing on experts who live and breathe digital marketing, but you’re also securing more efficient processes, freeing up time to focus on core business functions.

BUDGET TIP:

Trim spending in underperforming areas like less effective print ads or traditional mailers, and reallocate those funds toward digital content strategies. Also, consider reducing expenses on in-house administrative tasks that can be outsourced to virtual assistants, freeing up budget to bring in a professional team that will generate visible growth.

consistent brand voice and high-quality content

A consistent and appealing brand voice has become essential for businesses aiming to cultivate trust and loyalty. Skilled content creators bring a unique ability to elevate brand messaging, producing polished, engaging posts that align with your brand values. From visuals that wow to captions that captivate, thirdparty agencies are equipped to deliver content that feels cohesive and professional across all platforms.

BUDGET TIP:

Cut back on unnecessary office expenses or large single-purchase items, and instead put that budget toward a content team that delivers ongoing value. If your business uses internal marketing teams for miscellaneous tasks, narrowing their focus will create room for a specialized social media budget.

3 data-driven strategies to maximize growth

Third-party agencies bring data-driven insights that can take your brand’s growth to new levels. By analyzing your audience’s engagement, agencies can optimize content, refine targeting, and implement strategies with the potential to generate impressive ROI. Social media is no longer a simple add-on; it’s a robust tool that, when guided by analytics, can unlock growth faster than traditional advertising.

BUDGET TIP:

Evaluate past campaigns or initiatives that may not have yielded the desired ROI and redirect those funds toward social media and content services. Streamline tools and software that might be duplicating efforts, or renegotiate contracts with vendors to find savings that can be reinvested into a more impactful digital strategy.

As we approach 2025, there’s no better time to reassess and realign budgets to make room for effective social media management and content development. Don’t let Q1 slip by without positioning your brand to succeed in an online world—make a plan to bring in the right expertise and elevate your brand’s digital presence for the new year.

a glimpse

southern social SMAM into the LIFE of a

By Lila Bishop

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT MANAGER AT SOUTHERN SOCIAL

As we wrap up another bustling year, I’m reflecting on what it’s like to live a day, week, or month in the life of a Southern Social Social Media Account Manager (SMAM). While each day brings unique tasks, at its heart, my role is about fostering meaningful connections between our clients and their audiences. Here’s an inside look into my routine, plus a few tips that have helped me grow and find success in this role.

a typical day:

MULTITASKING WITH PURPOSE

My day usually kicks off early with a check-in on each client’s channels—answering comments, responding to DMs, and scanning the latest engagement insights to see which posts resonated. From there, I jump into content creation mode, coordinating with our graphic designer, photographer, or videographer to finalize content for upcoming campaigns. Our coffee brand, for example, has been particularly active with new flavor launches and holiday promotions. This involves finetuning visuals, writing captions that fit the brand voice, and scheduling posts to maximize reach.

Tip #1: Develop a System and Stick to It

A solid workflow keeps me focused and productive. I rely on a detailed content calendar and project management tools like Asana to track each step. Staying organized frees me up to be creative without losing sight of deadlines.

a weekly rhythm:

STRATEGY AND FLEXIBILITY

Each week, I review the analytics reports for my clients— Lifeboost, PennePazze, Buttermilk Ranch, and more. It’s a moment to evaluate what’s working and where we need to pivot. Then, I meet with our Media Buying team to discuss ad performance and ensure our paid strategies align with the organic content. We also schedule brainstorming sessions, especially for seasonal campaigns like our “12 Days of Christmas” series.

Tip #2: Build Relationships with Your Team

I’ve found that teamwork is crucial for success in social media management. Leaning on our talented designers, photographers, and media buyers makes me feel confident and supported in my role. Plus, it’s a great way to learn from others and stay inspired.

a monthly recap:

REFLECT, ADJUST, AND PLAN AHEAD

At the end of each month, I sit down with my team for a strategy call where we evaluate our goals and set new ones. It’s also a time to share any content successes or areas for improvement. For example, if a specific video format drove high engagement, we brainstorm ways to incorporate it more often.

Tip #3: Use Data to Guide Your Creativity

Data is empowering—it shows us what content really matters to our audiences. Analyzing metrics at the end of the month gives me clarity on where we’re hitting the mark and where there’s room for growth. This reflection fuels new ideas and helps me feel more intentional in my work.

Final Thoughts for Fellow SMMs

This year has taught me that social media is constantly evolving. As SMMs, our roles are about much more than just posting content. We’re brand builders, storytellers, and community connectors. If I could offer one last tip, it’s to embrace the creative freedom that comes with the role and trust the process—each post, each comment, each like is part of a bigger story that we’re helping to tell.

Here’s to another year of growth, creativity, and connection!

featured work

25 trending video and carousel ideas

Behind-the-Scenes Videos

Show the process of how products are made or services are offered to create transparency and build trust.

User-Generated Content (UGC) Features

Showcase customer testimonials or repost user content to build social proof and community.

Product Demos and Tutorials

Short, practical videos showcasing how to use products or services, with step-by-step instructions.

Before-and-After Transformations

This works great for industries like beauty, fitness, home décor, and design.

New Year Resolutions & Goals

Encourage your audience to set goals, and align your offerings to help them achieve them.

Seasonal or Holiday-Themed Content

Align your messaging with current holidays or seasons, with creative content like product bundles or festive offers.

Influencer or Partner Collaborations

Partner with influencers or other brands for joint campaigns, increasing your reach.

Customer “Shout-Out” Videos

Create videos where you thank customers or feature their stories to build relationships.

Q&A or AMA (Ask Me Anything) Sessions

Engage with your audience directly by answering their questions about your products, services, or industry.

How-to Guides/Pro Tips

Share expert tips related to your niche that provide value to your audience.

Product Unboxing and Reviews

These videos resonate with customers, showcasing new or featured products in real-time.

Client Case Studies

Create carousel posts or video case studies showing the impact of your product or service on real clients.

Time-Lapse Videos

Capture long processes (like building a product or setting up a service) in a quick, engaging way.

Trendy Sound Challenges/Content

Participate in popular social media trends or challenges, giving your brand a fun and relatable edge.

Day-in-the-Life

Show a day in the life of an employee, business owner, or customer to humanize your brand.

Product Comparisons

If you sell multiple products, compare them to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.

Community Impact Stories

Share how your business gives back to the community, whether through charitable donations or local partnerships.

Social Responsibility or Sustainability Initiatives

Highlight any eco-friendly or sustainability practices your business follows, as consumers are increasingly drawn to ethical brands.

Customer Reviews & Testimonials

Reels or carousels that feature happy customers and their feedback are very effective for trust-building.

Service Spotlights

Highlight specific services in more depth, showing what makes them unique.

2024 year in review

By Keisha Olds CEO & FOUNDER OF SOUTHERN SOCIAL

LOOKING BACK ON 2024: PIVOTING, LEARNING, AND GROWING

As 2024 winds down, I find myself reflecting on a year that has been nothing short of transformative. This industry— and my life—never fails to keep me on my toes. Social media continues to evolve at lightning speed, and Southern Social has kept pace by pivoting, innovating, and expanding in ways I couldn’t have imagined a year ago.

This year marked a new chapter for our agency. We’ve worked hard to ensure that no matter what our clients need, we have the resources and expertise to deliver with a white-glove touch. Whether it's reimagining campaigns or refining strategies, Southern Social is positioned to handle it all—and do it with intention and heart.

The best part? We’re not just growing in what we offer but in the relationships we’re building. The clients we work with now reflect our values and vision for quality partnerships. As we step into 2025, our focus remains on creating meaningful connections and curating strategies that inspire and deliver results.

THE CHAOS AND CHARM OF FAMILY LIFE

If my business kept me busy this year, my family kept me on my toes—and sometimes flat on the floor laughing (or crying, depending on the day). My teenage daughter totaled her car, a milestone I hope never to revisit. She’s fine, thankfully, but let’s just say my blood pressure hasn’t been the same since.

Meanwhile, my 15-year-old son, in all his glorious, block-headedboy nonsense, gave me a run for my money—figuratively and literally. Have kids, they said! They’re expensive little monsters, aren’t they? But, despite the chaos, they’re my heart. Every crazy moment is a reminder that parenthood, like business, is an unpredictable adventure, but one I wouldn’t trade for the world.

STARTING FRESH IN LOVE AND LEADERSHIP

On a personal level, 2024 was a year of new beginnings. I found love again—my person. It’s been a beautiful reminder that after the storms, the sun truly does shine. Starting fresh has given me a renewed sense of gratitude and a deeper understanding of what matters most.

This sense of renewal also shaped how I approached Southern Social. After facing some challenging years, I decided it was time to rebuild in a way that honors our roots while embracing a clearer vision for the future. Our focus now is on quality—quality clients, quality work, and quality relationships.

And through it all, I’m learning to give myself grace. Grace as a business owner navigating the ups and downs. Grace as a leader striving to inspire my team. Grace as a mom juggling the beautiful mess that is family life. And grace as a human being who is constantly learning, evolving, and trying to find joy in every moment.

RESPECTING THE HUSTLE, EMBRACING THE NOW

Social media is both my career and my creative outlet, but it’s also something I’m learning to respect and manage. While I love the work I do, I’m setting boundaries—stepping away from the endless scrolling and prioritizing what really matters.

My goal for 2025 is simple: spend more time with my family, travel more, and be present. I want to focus on life’s little moments—the kind you can’t capture in a reel or a post. Social media will always be a part of my life, but I’m learning to let it be a part, not the whole.

LOOKING AHEAD

As we head into the new year, I’m filled with hope and excitement for what’s next. Southern Social is ready to take on new challenges, create incredible campaigns, and continue building meaningful relationships.

To our clients, thank you for trusting us with your stories. To my team, thank you for your creativity and commitment. And to everyone who’s been a part of this journey, thank you for believing in the dream that is Southern Social. Here’s to a year of growth, grace, and being fully present in the moment.

PennePazze Growth Overview

By The Numbers

Our collaboration's impact is best understood through the lens of data, which illustrates the growth trajectory Lifeboost has experienced: WEBSITE TRAFFIC

10K

Over 10,000 new clicks to the Lifeboost website, guiding coffee enthusiasts to their next best cup.

1.5M

Approximately 1.5 million unique accounts reached, spanning a diverse demographic of coffee lovers.

10M ACCOUNT REACH

SOCIAL MEDIA IMPRESSIONS

An astonishing 10 million impressions, making Lifeboost a ubiquitous name in premium coffee circles.

10K

FOLLOWER GROWTH

An increase of over 10,000 new organic followers on Instagram, cultivated through authentic and engaging content.

42.4%

ENGAGEMENT AND ACTIVITY

A 42.4% increase in overall profile activity and engagement, indicating a thriving community of interactive followers.

lifeRegen x southern social

PHOTOGRAPHY

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT PACKAGES FOR 2025

At Southern Social, we know that social media isn’t just a trend—it’s the heartbeat of your brand’s online presence. That’s why we’ve designed our 2025 social media management packages to be as dynamic and flexible as your business. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, our team is here to help you turn your social media dreams into a reality.

If you’re ready to outsource your social media management and content creation in 2025, here’s a fun and easy breakdown of what you can expect to budget and the services we offer:

THE ESSENTIALS PACKAGE

Perfect for small businesses or brands just beginning their social media journey, the Essentials Package gives you everything you need to build a consistent presence with minimal fuss.

INCLUDES:

Platform Management: 1-2 platforms (Instagram, Facebook, etc.)

Content Creation: 8-10 posts per month, including static posts and carousels

$1,500 -

Monthly Content Creation: X hours of video/photo content creation (TBD based on client needs and brand)

Captions and Hashtags: Engaging, optimized copy to connect with your audience

Scheduling and Posting: We make sure your posts go live at peak times

Weekly Analytics and Reporting: Performance insights straight to your inbox

Assigned Account Manager: Your go-to person for all things social

WHO’S IT FOR?

This package is perfect for businesses that want to start strong with the basics—content creation, posting, and consistent brand engagement—without the need for heavy video production.

THE GROWTH PACKAGE

Ready to take your social media to the next level? The Growth Package offers a mix of dynamic content and engagement strategies to increase visibility and strengthen connections with your audience.

INCLUDES:

Platform Management: Up to 3 platforms (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, etc.)

Content Creation: 15-20 posts per month, including video reels, carousels, and branded graphics

Monthly Content Creation: X hours of video/photo content creation (TBD based on client needs and brand)

Community Engagement: Building relationships with your followers through thoughtful responses

Weekly Analytics and Reporting: Easy-to-understand performance reports

Assigned Account Manager: Your personal strategy guru

Marketing Emails and Strategy Calls: Weekly calls and email updates to keep your campaigns on track

WHO’S IT FOR?

Perfect for businesses looking to grow their audience with more engaging content, increased community interaction, and a smarter social strategy.

Disclaimer: These pricing ranges are estimates and may vary based on your brand’s unique needs. Media buying, influencer marketing, and extra photoshoot hours are billed separately. We’re always happy to chat with you to give you a tailored quote that suits your specific goals.

THE PREMIUM PACKAGE

For those who want it all—premium content, extensive strategy, and fullservice social media management—our Premium Package is a one-stopshop for social media domination

INCLUDES:

$5,000 + PER MONTH

Platform Management: Unlimited platforms (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, etc.)

Content Creation: 25+ posts per month, including high-quality video shoots, professional photos, and all the bells and whistles

Monthly Content Creation: X hours of video/photo content creation (TBD based on client needs and brand)

Media Buying: Separate media buying services, billed separately

Influencer Marketing: Outreach and partnerships with influencers and bloggers

Weekly Analytics and Reporting: Advanced reports with insights that drive your next move

Assigned Account Manager: Your dedicated partner in success

Marketing Emails and Strategy Calls: We’ll meet with you weekly to discuss performance and opportunities

WHO’S IT FOR?

This package is ideal for businesses with big goals and big visions, looking for a tailored, all-in-one approach to social media that includes content, strategy, and influencer collaborations.

A LA CARTE SERVICES

We get it—sometimes you need a little extra! Here’s a list of additional services we offer to elevate your brand:

Media Buying: Separate pricing for media buying, including the agency fee plus your ad spend Influencer Marketing: Reach outs, collaborations, and management of blogger/influencer relationships

Additional Photoshoot Hours: If you need more shoot time than what’s included in your monthly retainer

Email Marketing: Content creation, campaign setup, and ongoing management to nurture your email list and keep your audience engaged

Website Design & Maintenance: Custom website design or ongoing maintenance to ensure your site is optimized, functional, and looking fresh

What to Expect When Outsourcing to Southern Social

TIMESAVING

We handle the content creation, scheduling, engagement, and strategy, so you can focus on what you do best.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand?

CREATIVE CONTENT

From professionally produced videos to creative graphics, we’ve got your brand covered.

TAILORED STRATEGY

We align our efforts with your business goals to deliver content that resonates with your target audience.

HANDS-ON SUPPORT

Each client gets an assigned Account Manager, ensuring you always have the guidance and support you need to succeed.

CONSISTENT COMMUNICATION

Weekly calls and marketing emails to keep you updated and in the loop about your social media performance.

If you’re ready to transform your social media and take your brand to new heights in 2025, Southern Social is here to help! Let’s collaborate on a strategy that brings your brand’s vision to life.

Understanding the True Cost of Creating an Instagram Reel:

THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES WORK THAT POWERS YOUR CONTENT

Ever wonder why a 15-second Instagram reel costs as much as a fancy dinner? Here's the secret sauce behind that quick scroll-worthy content!

In the world of social media, we often see the end product—the finished Instagram Reel—quickly scrolling past us, yet few people understand the extensive work behind each piece of content. If you've ever wondered, "It’s just one reel; why does it cost so much?" this article breaks down the steps, resources, and people involved in creating just one Instagram video, offering a clearer picture of why pricing in the social media industry can seem high but is, in fact, well-justified.

pre-production planning

Once the concept is agreed upon, the pre-production phase takes place. This includes selecting locations, props, and talent (if applicable) for the shoot. This step is critical in ensuring that the vision for the reel is executed flawlessly. The videographer, along with the SMM, will assist with this planning, which often involves coordination with models, securing locations, and sometimes even managing permits if shooting in specific locations.

the concept & strategy phase:

Every video starts with a clear strategy. At Southern Social, we begin by collaborating with the client to understand their goals and audience. This phase involves the Social Media Manager (SMM), who will work closely with the client to ensure the content aligns with their branding, marketing objectives, and campaign direction. Research into trending formats, hashtags, and styles also happens here, ensuring the content stands out and reaches

why the cost?

post-production: editing

After the footage is captured, the editor steps in. This is a crucial stage where the video is carefully pieced together, music or voiceovers are added, and graphics are designed to match the brand’s aesthetic. At Southern Social, the editor ensures that the video is optimized for Instagram’s specifications and delivers the highest quality possible. This includes color correction, sound design, transitions, and adjustments to pacing—all aimed at creating a video that holds viewers' attention and drives engagement. 4

final review & delivery

Once editing is completed, the video undergoes a review process. The SMM, client, and editor often collaborate to make final tweaks. After receiving approval, the video is then uploaded to Instagram, optimized with captions, hashtags, and engagement strategies in mind. 5

The cost of creating a single Instagram reel encompasses the combined efforts of multiple skilled professionals. It’s not just the time spent shooting, but the hours dedicated to conceptualizing, co and refining the final piece. At Southern Social, every video is a result of the work put in by:

The Social Media Manager (SMM): Who ensures the content aligns with the brand’s strategy, audience, and goals.

The Videographer: Who captures the footage, often with specialized equipment and expertise.

The Editor: Who turns raw footage into a polished, shareable video.

The Client's Involvement: Clients also contribute time and feedback during the process, which is factored into the project cost.

When you break it down, it becomes clear that the costs are not just for a few minutes of video but for hours of professional labor, high-end equipment, and thoughtful strategy. This work is essential for businesses to stand out in a crowded social media landscape, and agencies like Southern Social charge based on the time, skill, and resources involved.

At the end of the day, time is money, and each piece of content requires a blend of creative direction, technical expertise, and meticulous attention to detail. So next time you see a well-crafted Instagram reel, remember that behind it is an entire team working to ensure it drives results—and that is the value you are paying for.

So, How Much Does Each Piece of Content Cost?

Now that you have a clearer understanding of the work that goes into producing just one Instagram reel, let's break down the cost in simpler terms.

At Southern Social, a typical 10-15 second Instagram reel takes approximately 1-2 hours to create from start to finish. This includes planning, shooting, and editing, along with time spent in meetings and incorporating client feedback. The cost for creating one video can range from $150 to $1,000 per reel, depending on several factors:

Props, Models, and Location/Venue: If your reel requires a specific setting or talent, that adds to the cost.

Time and Complexity: A simple, straightforward video may take less time, while a more complex shoot with special edits or effects may take longer.

Goals of the Video: If the goal is to capture high-end content or align with a bigger campaign, it may require more detailed planning and resources.

This pricing reflects the time and expertise of the team involved—Social Media Managers, Videographers, and Editors—along with any additional resources necessary to bring your vision to life.

While this cost may vary based on your specific needs, each video is an investment in your brand’s social media presence and its ability to engage your audience. By carefully crafting each reel with attention to detail, we ensure that it delivers real value—whether it’s increased engagement, more followers, or a boost in sales.

In short, the cost of creating a high-quality reel is a reflection of the time, creativity, and resources required to produce content that works for your brand. And, when you consider the impact a well-executed video can have, the investment quickly pays for itself.

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HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL GET:

1-Minute Video Feature: Professionally shot and edited to highlight your business.

On-Site Content Session: We’ll be on location for 1 hour capturing your unique story.

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Your video will go live within 1 week, putting your brand in front of thousands in your target market. act fast!

Spots are limited, and this special pricing won’t last! Let’s spotlight your

5 Common Questions Clients Ask an Agency

How do you measure success for my social media campaigns?

SOUTHERN SOCIAL ANSWER:

Success is measured by engagement rates, reach, impressions, follower growth, and audience interaction. For advanced campaigns, we track lead generation, website clicks, and conversions.

FAQ

How much involvement is required from me?

SOUTHERN SOCIAL ANSWER:

Minimal involvement is required! We’ll handle strategy, creation, and posting. You’re welcome to review and approve content, share updates, or join content planning sessions as needed.

How long does it take to see results?

SOUTHERN SOCIAL ANSWER:

Organic social media efforts often take 3–6 months to build traction, but you’ll notice improvements in brand awareness and engagement almost immediately. Paid strategies may deliver quicker results depending on goals and budgets.

Can you guarantee follower growth or sales?

SOUTHERN SOCIAL ANSWER:

While we can’t guarantee specific numbers, our strategies focus on cultivating an engaged and loyal audience that leads to meaningful growth and sales over time.

Will I own the content created for my brand?

SOUTHERN SOCIAL ANSWER:

Yes, all content created as part of your retainer is yours to use across your organic social platforms. If you decide to use this content for media buying or paid advertisements outside of Southern Social, a fee per piece of content will apply. Southern Social also retains the right to use the content for collaboration and promotional purposes on our own social channels.