The Social Scoop is your go-to guide for the latest in social media and digital marketing, designed by Southern Social Packed with trends, strategies, and expert insights, this report helps local businesses boost their online presence and grow their brand Inside, find must-know updates, success stories, and a breakdown of our 2025 services and pricing. Stay ahead Stay social Stay successful
contents
From the Founder
Stop Hiring for Marketing. Start Building a Marketing Department.
The Cost of Waiting
What We're Seeing Across Hospitality & Lifestyle Brands
By The Numbers: What Every Hospitality & Lifestyle Brand Should Know
The Southern (Social) Standard
Marketing Myths We'd Like to Retire in 2026
The Creator Economy: It's Not Dead. It's Finally Growing Up.
Client Case Studies
What Our Clients Had To Say
Social Media Management Packages for 2026
The Team Behind The Brands
Featured Work Hallson Hospitality Co x Southern Social Feature
Frequently Asked Questions
Nobody Really Talks About Year Nine
from the founder
THE NEW RULES OF BUSINESS IN 2026
Today's businesses need photographers who understand storytelling Videographers who understand algorithms Editors who understand attention spans Designers who understand branding Strategists who understand business goals Community managers who understand customer service Media buyers who understand ROI One person simply can't master every discipline at the level modern brands deserve
That's why the agency model continues to outperform hiring a single in-house social media manager When you hire an experienced agency, you're gaining an entire marketing department, creative minds, specialists, strategists, editors, photographers, videographers, and account managers, all working together toward one goal: growing your business
Our clients don't hire us because they need Instagram They hire us because they need more customers More reservations More qualified leads More investors More awareness More growth
As Southern Social continues expanding across the United States and Canada, we've been fortunate to partner with brands that trust us not only to create beautiful content but to become an extension of their leadership team That responsibility isn't something we take lightly
The platforms will continue changing
Algorithms will evolve
AI will become even smarter
But one thing will always remain true:
Businesses that consistently show up, tell their story well, and invest in their brand will continue to outperform those waiting for the "right time" to market themselves The brands winning in 2026 are leaning into creator partnerships, consistent content, community building, and founder-led storytelling, not sporadic campaigns
Thank you for being part of this journey with us
Whether you're a client, a fellow entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to build something meaningful, I hope this edition of The Social Scoop leaves you inspired, informed, and excited about what's possible
Here's to building brands that people remember
Ten years ago, businesses asked, "Should we be on social media?" Today, the better question is: "Can our business survive without it?"
As I write this, our team is creating content across the United States and Canada, working with hospitality groups, luxury beauty brands, real estate investment firms,
restaurants, healthcare companies, coffee brands, and lifestyle businesses that all have one thing in common: They've realized social media isn't a marketing department anymore
It's the front door to their business
Whether someone discovers you through Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Google, AI search, or a friend sharing your Reel, the first impression almost always happens digitally Before someone walks into your restaurant, books your service, invests with your company, or buys your product, they've already made a decision based on what they found online
And in 2026? They're making that decision faster than ever
AI has changed how people search Consumers are finding businesses through social platforms, creator content, and conversational search instead of simply typing keywords into Google That means your photos, videos, reviews, founder stories, and educational content are now influencing buying decisions long before a sales call ever happens
Here's what hasn't changed People still buy from people In fact, the rise of AI has made authenticity more valuable not less Brands with a recognizable face, a clear voice, and genuine storytelling consistently outperform businesses hiding behind polished graphics and corporate jargon AI can help us move faster, but it can't replace trust, personality, or human connection
That's exactly why Southern Social has never believed in "just posting" We believe in building brands
We create photography, video, strategy, social media, creator partnerships, paid campaigns, community management, event cove and content that actually reflects who our clients are, not what an algorithm tells them to become Because marketing has become far too complex for one employee wearing twelve different hats
keisha
Keisha Olds CEO & Founder Southern Social Editor The Social Scoop
stop hiring for marketing.
Start Building a Marketing Department.
Why the businesses growing the fastest aren't hiring one social media manager, they're investing in teams.
BY SOUTHERN SOCIAL
There was a time when hiring "someone to do social media" actually made sense
An iPhone A few photos A Facebook post Maybe an Instagram caption.
Fast forward to today, and that same role has quietly evolved into one of the most demanding positions inside any company
Now imagine asking one employee to photograph your business, film cinematic video, edit Reels, write captions, understand SEO, build creator partnerships, respond to customer messages, design graphics, manage advertising, analyze reporting, keep up with artificial intelligence, stay ahead of ever-changing algorithms, and somehow still find time to be creative
When you put it that way, it sounds impossible Because it is
THE BIGGEST HIRING MISTAKE WE SEE
After working with more than 250 brands across the United States and Canada over nearly a decade, we've noticed something interesting
Business owners aren't hiring the wrong people They're hiring for the wrong position They're looking for one person When what they actually need
...is an entire marketing department.
what does one "social media manager" actually cost?
Salary: $65,000–$90,000+
Benefits & Payroll Taxes
Vacation Coverage
Equipment & Software
Training & Professional
Development
Recruitment & Turnover Costs
And after all of that... You're still relying on one person's strengths
If they're an incredible photographer, they may not be an exceptional copywriter
If they're amazing on camera, they might not understand analytics.
If they're a strategist, they may struggle with editing video
No one becomes an expert in every creative discipline. Nor should they have to.
THE NEW MARKETING DEPARTMENT
Today's strongest brands aren't relying on one creative person They're building collaborative teams
At Southern Social, every client benefits from specialists who each bring something different to the table
One day it's photography
The next it's strategy
Then short-form video.
Graphic design.
Copywriting
Influencer outreach
Paid advertising
Reporting
Creative direction
Instead of expecting one employee to wear twelve hats our clients gain an experienced team already wearing them
YOUR MARKETING SHOULDN'T STOP BECAUSE SOMEONE IS ON VACATION." "
BUYING BACK YOUR TIME
The biggest return on investment isn't another Reel
It's time
Time your leadership team gets back. Time your managers spend running the business instead of filming content between meetings Time your restaurant manager spends with guests instead of editing videos in the office Time your founder spends growing the company instead of wondering what to post tomorrow
Marketing should support your business. Not become another full-time job
WHY OUTSIDE PERSPECTIVE WINS
One of the biggest advantages of working with an agency isn't simply the creative work.
It's perspective
Our team spends every week inside restaurants, luxury beauty brands, investment firms, hospitality groups, coffee companies, retail businesses, healthcare clinics, tourism organizations, and lifestyle brands.
We see what works across industriesWe recognize trends before they become mainstream We understand how consumers are interacting with content because we're creating it every single day
That outside perspective is difficult to replicate from inside four office walls
NEARLY TEN YEARS LATER...
Southern Social was built on one belief: Relationships still matter.
Nearly ten years later, we've partnered with more than 250 brands, expanded throughout the United States and Canada, and watched the marketing industry change faster than anyone imagined
Algorithms have changed.
Platforms have changed
Artificial intelligence has changed
But one thing hasn't.
People still connect with people
The businesses investing in authentic storytelling, professional content, consistent strategy, and experienced creative partners are the businesses customers remember.
And remembered brands become trusted brands
THE SOUTHERN SOCIAL DIFFERENCE
You're not hiring...
✕ A freelancer juggling multiple clients
✕ A contractor trying to do everything
✕ One employee wearing every hat
You're gaining...
✓ Strategists
✓ Photographers
✓ Videographers
✓ Editors
✓ Designers
✓ Copywriters
✓ Community Managers
✓ Creative Directors
✓ Account Managers
✓ A team that becomes an extension of yours
Marketing has never been more important. It has also never been more specialized. The businesses leading their industries aren't asking, "Who can post on Instagram?" They're asking, “Who's helping us build a brand?"
And those are two very different conversations
THE COST OF WAITING
Every few weeks, someone asks me the same question "Why does Southern Social require a minimum annual commitment?"
It's a fair question. And the answer has very little to do with contracts. It has everything to do with how brands are built
After nearly ten years, more than 250 brands, thousands of content shoots, and partnerships stretching across the United States and Canada, I've learned that the businesses growing the fastest rarely view marketing as a monthly expense They view it as part of their infrastructure
BY KEISHA OLDS
WHY THE SMARTEST BRANDS INVEST IN MARKETING BEFORE THEY NEED IT.
Just like payroll Operations Technology
Marketing isn't something they turn on when sales slow down It's something they've already committed to long before they need it.
That's because visibility compounds
A single Instagram Reel probably won't change your business A beautifully photographed campaign may generate excitement for a week But a year of strategic storytelling showing your audience who you are, what you believe in, and why your business exists creates something much more valuable
Trust
Today's consumers don't buy from businesses they discover once. They buy from brands they've seen consistently, brands that educate them, entertain them, answer questions before they're asked, and remain visible long after competitors have stopped posting
That consistency is where many businesses begin to underestimate the true investment required
For years, companies hired "a social media manager" and expected that role to encompass photography, videography, editing, copywriting, strategy, graphic design, analytics, community management, paid advertising, influencer partnerships, and now artificial intelligence
Somewhere along the way, one job quietly became ten. It's not a reflection of the employee. It's a reflection of how dramatically marketing has evolved
The strongest brands today aren't relying on one exceptionally talented individual They're building creative departments.Or, increasingly, partnering with agencies that already have one.
At Southern Social, our annual partnerships begin at $30,000, not because it's an arbitrary benchmark, but because meaningful marketing requires meaningful commitment That investment supports strategists, photographers, videographers, editors, designers, copywriters, account managers, and creative leadership working together with one objective: growing your business
MARKETING ISN'T EXPENSIVE. BEING FORGOTTEN IS.
Viewed independently, those services represent significant investments on their own.
Professionally edited short-form videos regularly command $150 to $250 per finished piece
Commercial brand photography often begins around $1,500 per hour, with editing queues that can delay delivery for weeks
We've intentionally built our business differently.
Our creative team works in-house, allowing photography, video, editing, strategy, and publishing to move together instead of through separate vendors Because in today's digital landscape, timing matters almost as much as creativity. A perfectly edited video delivered three weeks too late has already missed its moment
That's why we don't sell posts
We don't sell photo shoots.
We don't sell Reels
We build momentum
As Southern Social approaches its tenth year in business, that's the lesson we've watched play out again and again.
The brands that continue to grow aren't necessarily the ones spending the most
They're the ones committing to showing up consistently, intentionally, and professionally long before their competitors realize they should have done the same
what we're seeing across hospitality & lifestyle brands
Observations from nearly 10 years, 250+ brands, and thousands of hours spent behind the camera.
Every January, someone asks us what the next big social media trend will be
The truth?
We're usually watching something much bigger than trends. We're watching people.
At Southern Social, we spend more time inside our clients' businesses than we do sitting behind a desk One morning we're photographing brunch service before sunrise. The next we're documenting a luxury facial treatment, touring a new development with a real estate client, or capturing the energy of a packed Friday night restaurant
That's intentional We've always believed the best marketing starts face-to-face You can't tell a brand's story if you've never walked through its front door. You can't create authentic content if you've never met the people behind the business
And you certainly can't build long-term trust from behind a computer screen
Technology has changed almost everything about marketing over the last decade
Our philosophy hasn't changed at all
Relationships still come first
Ironically, that's becoming one of the biggest competitive advantages in today's digital world
As artificial intelligence makes it easier for everyone to create content, consumers are becoming much better at recognizing what feels real and what doesn't Perfect graphics, polished captions, and automated videos are everywhere They're impressive for a moment, but they rarely create connection.
People still connect with people The restaurant owner greeting guests at the front door The esthetician explaining a treatment The chef plating dinner on a busy Friday night The founder talking about why they started the business in the first place. Those moments aren't manufactured. They're documented And that's the difference
One of the biggest shifts we've noticed across hospitality and lifestyle brands isn't the algorithm it's the consumer People aren't scrolling social media looking to be sold to anymore. They're looking to feel something.
They want to know where they're spending their money Who's behind the business What the atmosphere feels like Whether the experience matches the promise
Before someone books the reservation, schedules the consultation, buys the membership, or signs the contract, they've already spent time with your brand online
In many ways, social media has become your first handshake. That's why we don't believe in creating content for the sake of filling a calendar
Every photo should build trust Every video should answer a question Every caption should sound like your business not someone else's Every campaign should make someone feel like they've already met you before they ever walk through your doors
Looking ahead to 2027, we don't believe brands need more content We believe they need better stories. They need faster execution without sacrificing quality. They need strategy instead of guesswork
Most importantly, they need partners willing to show up not just on Zoom, but in person Partners who understand that the best content often comes from conversations happening in your dining room, your treatment room, your showroom, or your lobby
That's how Southern Social has always worked
It's how we've built relationships with more than 250 brands across the United States and Canada. And if the last decade has taught us anything, it's this:
Marketing will continue to evolve Platforms will come and go.
Artificial intelligence will keep getting smarter
But businesses built on genuine relationships, exceptional experiences, and consistent storytelling will always have something technology can never replace.
A human connection
BY THE NUMBERS
THE STATE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN 2026
What Every Hospitality & Lifestyle Brand Should Know
5.6
BILLION
10
SECONDS
$150–$250
People around the world now use social media, making it one of the largest communication platforms in history Your customers aren't asking whether your business is on social they're deciding whether your brand is worth their attention
That's often all the time you have to convince someone to stop scrolling and start paying attention. Your first impression is no longer your storefront it's your content.
Southern Social Take: If your feed doesn't instantly communicate who you are, what you offer, and why someone should care, you've likely already lost them
The average market rate for one professionally edited short-form video in today's content economy.
Yet the strongest-performing brands aren't producing one video They're building content libraries every single month
$1,500+
Commercial photography commonly begins around this investment for a single branded session, often followed by multi-week editing timelines
At Southern Social, we've built our business around one belief: Great content loses value if it's delivered too late
92%
Consumers trust recommendations from real people and user-generated content more than traditional advertising
That's why founder stories, customer testimonials, behind-the-scenes moments, and creator partnerships continue to outperform overly polished brand messaging.
The average "social media manager" is now expected to be: A photographer, Videographer, Editor, Graphic designer, Copywriter Strategist, Community manager, Advertising specialist, SEO expert, Analytics expert and an AI specialist
No single person should be expected to master every discipline. That's why businesses are increasingly replacing one marketing hire with specialized agency teams
SOUTHERNthe
{social}
STANDARD
THE VALUES THAT HAVE GUIDED SOUTHERN SOCIAL FOR NEARLY A DECADE.
Every agency has a process Every agency has deliverables. Every agency has packages
What separates them are their values
At Southern Social, we've never believed marketing begins with a camera or a content calendar We believe it begins with a conversation A handshake Learning your team's names. Meeting your customers Walking through your business before we ever tell its story
Technology has changed the way people discover brands, but it hasn't changed why people choose them
Relationships still win everything
Around here, handshakes and holding babies is still the Southern way
It means we show up We attend your grand openings, celebrate your milestones, cheer on your team, support your charities, and become part of your community We believe the strongest marketing comes from businesses that genuinely care about the people they serve and agencies willing to care just as much
That's why we don't chase every trend. We don't believe in creating content simply to fill a calendar. Every photograph should create trust Every video should feel authentic Every caption should sound like your brand not ours Our job isn't to make content that gets noticed for a day It's to help build brands people remember for years
As our agency has grown across the United States and Canada, one thing has remained remarkably consistent: the businesses seeing the greatest success are rarely the loudest They're the most consistent They invest in relationships before transactions, community before competition, and long-term reputation over short-term attention
We've also learned that speed matters Great content delivered weeks after the moment has passed has already lost much of its value That's why we've built an in-house team capable of moving quickly without sacrificing quality In today's world, responsiveness isn't just good service it's part of the strategy.
We believe businesses deserve more than one person trying to wear every hat They deserve a team of specialists who care as much about their success as they do That's the model we've built over the last ten years, and it's the standard we continue to hold ourselves to every single day
The platforms will continue to change Artificial intelligence will continue to evolve New apps will come and go
But we'll keep believing in the things that built this agency in the first place:
Relationships before reach.
People before platforms
Community before competition
Showing up before showing off.
Because great marketing has never been about chasing algorithms
It's about earning trust
And trust has always started with a handshake.
marketing myths we'd like to retire in 2026
"MY NIECE HAS AN IPHONE. SHE CAN DO OUR SOCIAL MEDIA "
And your cousin once grilled burgers, but we wouldn't make him Executive Chef
Having an Instagram account and running a brand's social media are two very different things Strategy, photography, video, editing, copywriting, analytics, advertising, community management, SEO...that's an entire department. We love your niece She deserves to enjoy Thanksgiving without being asked why the engagement is down
"WE JUST NEED ONE VIRAL REEL "
Respectfully no, you don't Going viral is exciting Building a recognizable brand is profitable
A viral video might introduce someone to your business Consistently showing up is what convinces them to become a customer We'd rather help you build a business that lasts than create internet fame that disappears by next Tuesday.
"WE'LL JUST HAVE ONE EMPLOYEE HANDLE EVERYTHING "
"PEOPLE DON'T CARE ABOUT THE OWNER "
Absolutely While they're at it, have them fly the plane, serve the drinks, and fix the engine too
Today's "social media manager" is somehow expected to be a photographer, videographer, editor, designer, strategist, copywriter, ad specialist, community manager, and AI expert. That's not one job. That's an entire marketing department wearing one name tag
"WE'LL START POSTING ONCE BUSINESS PICKS UP."
Wrong People absolutely care who's behind the business They want to know who's making the pasta, pouring the coffee, treating their skin, building their home, or investing their money Logos don't build relationships People do
Turns out your customers like buying from humans. Weird, we know.
That's kind of like saying you'll start going to the gym after you get abs
Marketing isn't the reward for having a successful business it's one of the reasons successful businesses stay successful The brands staying busy are the ones who kept showing up while everyone else got quiet
THE CREATOR ECONOMY
IT'S NOT DEAD. IT'S FINALLY GROWING UP.
BY SOUTHERN SOCIAL
There was a time when brands believed bigger always meant better
The creator with a million followers got the deal The biggest audience won The prettiest feed landed the partnership For a while, it worked Then consumers caught on
Today, people can spot an inauthentic brand partnership from a mile away They know when someone has never stepped foot inside the restaurant they're promoting They know when a skincare routine has been rehearsed fifteen times before the camera started rolling They know when someone is reading talking points instead of sharing a genuine experience,
And The Tha the disa Bra follo rela We follo s bec wat som not adv Influ mo Sou billb
@pennepazzeofficial
PennePazze
The strongest partnerships happen when there's genuine alignment between the creator and the brand We encourage our clients to think beyond follower counts and instead ask better questions
Cap
Would this person actually spend their own money here? Would they recommend this business even if they weren't being compensated? Would their audience believe them?
If the answer is yes, you've probably found the right partner.
The most successful creator campaigns also look very different than they did just a few years ago
Brands are moving away from one-time sponsored posts and toward long-term ambassadors. They're licensing creator content for paid advertising. They're mixing professional photography with usergenerated content They're inviting creators to grand openings, menu tastings, charity events, product launches, and community activations because those experiences create stories not advertisements
That's where the magic happens
One of the biggest misconceptions we still hear is that influencer marketing is expensive. It can be. It can also be one of the most costeffective forms of marketing when approached strategically
Some of the strongest partnerships we've facilitated began with nothing more than a thoughtfully prepared meal, an unforgettable experience, and a business genuinely excited to welcome someone through the front door
Because that's something algorithms still can't replicate Hospitality
As we look toward 2027, we don't believe brands need more influencers We believe they need better relationships Creators who genuinely love the businesses they represent
Partnerships built on trust instead of transactions
Content that feels like a recommendation from a friend instead of another advertisement interrupting someone's day
The creator economy isn't becoming less human
It's becoming more human. And we think that's exactly where it should be
$8–10M in direct/assisted Shopify revenue from social campaigns
Seasonal campaigns went viral (Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread, Toasted Chestnut)
Strengthened brand authority as the #1 choice for healthy coffee
Southern Social’s partnership with this Coffee brand proves that consistent, high-quality branded content fuels measurable growth. By blending strategic photo/video creation with performance-driven campaigns, social media became the backbone of their DTC success accounting for nearly a quarter of total 2025 revenue.
W H AT O U R C L I E N T S H A D TO SAY
ALYSSA GANGERI
CHEF PARTNER
THE BUTTERMILK RANCH NASHVILLE
KEISHA OLDS – SOUTHERN SOCIAL
Marketing & Brand Development Reference
Keisha Olds and the team at Southern Social have been an exceptional partner to The Buttermilk Ranch for the past four years as we have grown from a new restaurant concept into a nationally recognized brand. During that time, they have helped us build a thoughtful and engaging social media presence that authentically reflects both our restaurant and the vibrant hospitality culture of Nashville
In a destination city like Nashville, where tourism and travel play a significant role in the dining landscape, social media often serves as a guest’s first introduction to a restaurant. What we do in hospitality is a craft, and translating that level of care and detail into digital content is no small task Through our partnership over the past several years, we have come to realize that many guests experience The Buttermilk Ranch for the first time through social media before ever stepping through our doors The Southern Social team has a natural ability to adapt to our brand and translate that experience digitally, helping ensure the guest experience begins long before someone walks through our doors
The Buttermilk Ranch has been recognized among the Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in America and the Top 100 Places to Eat in America. Keisha and her team’s attention to detail has played an important role in helping us reach that level of visibility and in keeping our restaurant at the forefront of the conversation with both locals and visitors to Nashville
Keisha brings creativity, professionalism, and a genuine investment in the success of her clients. I would confidently recommend Keisha Olds and Southern Social to any organization seeking a strategic partner who understands how to connect people, places, and experiences through thoughtful digital media
Alyssa Gangeri
alyssa@urbangrub.net
SCOTT MACPHERSON CO-FOUNDER AND MANAGING PARTNER
KINCROFT CAPITAL
KEISHA OLDS – SOUTHERN SOCIAL
Marketing & Brand Development Reference
Keisha Olds and the team at Southern Social have been instrumental in the development of the Kincroft Capital brand from the earliest stages of the firm’s formation From the outset, Keisha demonstrated a strong ability to translate strategic vision into a cohesive and professional brand identity that reflects the values and positioning of our platform.
Southern Social worked closely with our team to develop the full visual identity for Kincroft Capital, including logo design, brand guidelines, and the broader creative direction that now defines our presence in the market Their work extended beyond design into the implementation of our digital and social media footprint, ensuring that the messaging, tone, and presentation of the firm were consistent and aligned with the institutional positioning we sought to achieve
What sets Keisha apart is her ability to combine creativity with strategic understanding. She took the time to understand our business model, our target audience, and the way we wanted to differentiate ourselves within the real estate investment landscape The result has been a brand platform that is both distinctive and highly professional
Since inception, Southern Social has continued to support Kincroft’s marketing initiatives and social media strategy, helping us maintain a polished and consistent presence as the firm grows Keisha is thoughtful, responsive, and highly collaborative, making her an excellent partner for organizations seeking to build or refine their brand.
I would confidently recommend Keisha Olds and Southern Social to any organization looking for thoughtful brand development, creative strategy, and marketing support delivered with professionalism and care.
Scott Macpherson smacpherson@kincroftcapitalcom
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT PRICING FOR
2026-2027
At Southern Social, we don't sell social media packages we build long-term marketing partnerships Our team becomes an extension of your business, creating strategic content, managing your online presence, and helping your brand grow with consistency, creativity, and measurable results. Whether you're a singlelocation business or a multi-location brand, every partnership is customized to your goals, industry, and growth stage
OUR PARTNERSHIPS
FOUNDATION
Perfect for businesses ready to build a consistent and professional online presence with a dedicated marketing team behind them
SERVICES MAY INCLUDE:
Social media strategy & planning
Platform management
(Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn & more)
Professional photography & video production
Graphic design
Short-form video editing
Caption writing & hashtag strategy
Community engagement
Content scheduling & publishing
Weekly analytics
Monthly reporting
Dedicated Account Manager
Monthly strategy meetings
GROWTH
For established brands looking to increase visibility, expand into new markets, and create largerscale campaigns
SERVICES MAY INCLUDE:
Multiple monthly content shoots
Multi-location management
Paid advertising strategy
Email marketing
Community growth initiatives
Campaign planning
Product launches
Brand partnerships
Executive personal branding
ENTERPRISE
Designed for organizations seeking a fully outsourced marketing department Every Enterprise partnership is custom-built around your organization's goals
SERVICES MAY INCLUDE:
Unlimited platform management
Ongoing photo & video production
Influencer marketing
Paid media management
Event coverage
PR & media outreach
Website updates
Email & SMS marketing
UGC campaigns
Recruitment marketing
Quarterly marketing planning
MINIMUM ANNUAL PARTNERSHIP: $30,000
Custom proposals are available for multi-location businesses, franchise groups, and enterprise organizations
WHAT EVERY PARTNERSHIP INCLUDES
✔ Dedicated Account Manager
✔ Customized Marketing Strategy
✔ Monthly Content Calendar
✔ Professional Copywriting
✔ Creative Direction ✔ Content Approval System ✔ Weekly Performance Reports ✔ Monthly Analytics Review
✔ Strategy Calls ✔ Trend Research ✔ Competitor Analysis
✔ Access to Our Creative Team
Southern Social partners with brands through annual marketing agreements beginning at $30,000 annually Every proposal is customized based on content needs, locations, platforms, and overall marketing objectives
YOUR MARKETING DEPARTMENT UNDER ONE ROOF
Our clients don't hire one social media manager. They gain an entire team of strategists, creators, photographers, videographers, designers, editors, and marketing professionals working together to grow their brand.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram
Facebook
TikTok
LinkedIn
Pinterest
YouTube
Google Business Profile
Community Management
Social Strategy
Content Calendars
MARKETING SERVICES
Email Marketing
SMS Marketing
Paid Advertising
Influencer Marketing
UGC Campaigns
Public Relations
Launch Campaigns
Grand Openings
Event Marketing
Website Design
Website Maintenance
Brand Consulting
Marketing Strategy
Analytics & Reporting
CONTENT CREATION
Professional Photography
Short-Form Video
Reels
TikTok Content
Product Photography
Lifestyle Photography
Drone Footage
Brand
Storytelling
Graphic Design
Creative Direction
INDUSTRIES WE SERVE
Restaurants
Hospitality
Medical
Aesthetics
Health & Wellness
Coffee Brands
Retail
Luxury Brands
Real Estate
Professional Services
Fitness
Multi-Location Businesses
WHY SOUTHERN SOCIAL?
STRATEGIC MARKETING
Every piece of content supports your larger business goals not just your social media
PROFESSIONAL CREATIVE
Photography, videography, design, copywriting, and editing all under one roof.
BUILT FOR GROWTH
HANDS-ON PARTNERSHIP
You'll work with a dedicated Account Manager backed by our full creative team
CONSISTENT COMMUNICATION
Weekly updates, transparent reporting, and proactive strategy keep your business moving forward
Whether you're opening your second location or your fiftieth, we create marketing systems that scale with your business.
READY TO GROW?
Southern Social partners with brands that are serious about investing in long-term growth If you're looking for more than someone to "post on Instagram" and instead want a dedicated marketing partner focused on building your business we'd love to connect.
THE TEAM BEHIND THE BRANDS
Social media isn't a one-person job anymore That's probably the biggest misconception we hear.
Today's brands need strategy, photography, videography, editing, graphic design, copywriting, community management, analytics, trend research, influencer partnerships, paid advertising, and someone keeping it all moving behind the scenes
That's where we come in
Founded in 2017, Southern Social is a full-service social media and content marketing agency serving hospitality, lifestyle, beauty, wellness, retail, real estate, and destination brands across the United States and Canada
We're proudly female-founded, relationshipdriven, and built on one simple belief:
Great marketing happens when talented people work together
Over the past nine years, we've partnered with hundreds of businesses from local favorites to national brands creating millions of views, launching new locations, building communities, producing campaigns, and helping businesses become the brand everyone talks about
Whether we're shooting content in Nashville, creating campaigns in Dallas, launching a business in Vancouver, or flying across North America for a client event, one thing never changes:
We become part of your team Because your success becomes ours
WHAT WE DO
• Social Media Management
• Photography
• Videography
• Short Form Video Editing
• Graphic Design Influencer Marketing
• Content Strategy
• Event Coverage
• Brand Launches
• Consulting
• Paid Social Campaigns Community Management
"WE'RE NOT FREELANCERS. WE'RE NOT JUST CONTENT CREATORS. WE'RE YOUR MARKETING DEPARTMENT."
meet keisha olds
CEO & FOUNDER, SOUTHERN SOCIAL
You've already met me in my Letter from the Editor, but here's a little more about the woman behind Southern Social
I started Southern Social in 2017 with one camera, a whole lot of grit, and the belief that marketing should actually move the needle, not just look pretty
Nearly a decade later, we've grown into an international agency serving brands across the US and Canada, but our mission is still the same: build genuine relationships, create content people actually want to watch, and help businesses grow
Before Southern Social, I spent over a decade in outside sales, working alongside entrepreneurs and learning what it really takes to build a business That experience shaped everything we do today because great marketing isn't just creative it's strategic, sales-driven, and built to deliver results
When I'm not on set or catching a flight to our next client, you'll find me hunting down the best coffee, exploring Nashville, Dallas, or Vancouver, planning my next adventure, or dreaming up our team's next big idea.
Favorite thing about Southern Social? Watching our clients win Every single time
ACCOUNT MANAGER
meet lila bishop
If you've ever worked with Southern Social, chances are you've met Lila
For the past two years, she's been the organizational heartbeat of our agency keeping projects moving, clients supported, content scheduled, and our team running seamlessly behind the scenes
Originally from Ohio and now officially a newlywed, Lila has a love for social media trends, an incredible eye for detail, and a gift for making every client feel supported from day one
She's also our resident TikTok expert and somehow always knows what's trending before the rest of us.
meet keely mcclure
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Another proud Ohio native, Keely brings creativity, strategy, and fresh ideas to every account she manages
From planning monthly content calendars to writing captions, tracking trends, and helping brands show up consistently online, she's passionate about creating content that feels authentic while delivering results
Whether she's behind the scenes brainstorming ideas or jumping into the latest trend, Keely helps keep our clients relevant in an ever-changing social media world.
meet the creative team
PHOTO & VIDEO georgia
Georgia specializes in creating beautiful, authentic visual content that showcases every brand's personality Her eye for storytelling helps transform everyday moments into memorable marketing
jasmine & ysa
PHOTO & GRAPHIC DESIGNER courtney
From social graphics and branding assets to magazine layouts and campaign visuals, Courtney ensures every piece of creative reflects the Southern Social brand while helping our clients stand out.
VIDEO EDITORS
Behind every scroll-stopping video at Southern Social are two incredibly talented full-time video editors: Jasmine and Ysa From transforming raw footage into compelling stories to creating engaging short-form content, they bring each brand to life through intentional editing, creative pacing, seamless transitions, motion graphics, and an eye for the details that keep audiences watching
While you've met our core team, we also partner with a trusted network of specialized contractors and creative collaborators when a project calls for additional expertise From drone pilots and photographers to web developers, copywriters, and production specialists, we believe in building the right team for every client No matter who's involved, our standard remains the same: client-first communication, efficient workflows, quick turnarounds, and creating social-first content that drives results
FEATURED WORK
FOOD & BEVERAGE
BEAUTY & WELLNESS
LIFESTYLE & E-COMMERCE
1.4
MILLION
Brand photos captured (campaigns, shoots, social content)
160
Short form videos delivered (Reels, TikToks, ads, interviews, BTS content) THOUSAND
400 (and counting) organic impressions generated across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Youtube
MILLION
250
Brands served nationwide (beauty, hospitality, lifestyle, and real estate) & COUNTING
KAREE HAYS AESTHETICS X SOUTHERN SOCIAL
FAQ5 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
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
I would've imagined more freedom.
More confidence More certainty
NOBODY REALLY TALKS ABOUT YEAR NINE
BY KEISHA OLDS
I definitely wouldn't have imagined staring at a tax bill that made me physically sick to my stomach
No one really tells you that one of the strangest feelings in entrepreneurship is finally becoming successful enough to owe more money than you ever thought possible This year, I transitioned from a sole proprietor to an LLC and now an S-Corp It's what you're supposed to do when your business grows. It's responsible. It's the right move.
It also hurts
Writing those checks feels wildly unfair until I remind myself of something I have to say out loud every now and then:
"You don't owe taxes on money you didn't make"
It's an odd thing to be grateful for
Success has a funny way of introducing you to problems you once wished you had
The same has been true at home
This year, my daughter graduated high school My son began online school as a junior. They're both still close, but somehow the house feels quieter Nobody prepares you for the emotions that come with watching your children become adults You spend years counting down to graduation, only to realize that every milestone is also a goodbye to a version of life you'll never get back.
It's beautiful It's heartbreaking Somehow, it's both
Then there's long-distance
Not just a long-distance relationship, but building an international company while constantly crossing borders. I've become exceptionally good at planning flights, blocking off weekends months in advance, and always having another trip on the calendar I've learned that having something to look forward to is sometimes just as important as the trip itself
I've also become a huge fan of what I lovingly call a "bed rot day"
DoorDash. A Sonic corn dog. A terrible reality show. No makeup. No emails. No guilt.
Nine years ago, I would've called that laziness Today, I call it maintenance Burnout is real
In our industry, creativity is the product You can't expect people to create beautiful work if they're constantly running on empty That's one of the reasons we offer unlimited paid time off at Southern Social I never wanted to build the kind of workplace where someone had to "earn" permission to attend a doctor's appointment or miss work for a friend's wedding. Life doesn't happen neatly between 8:00 and 5:00, and I don't think work should pretend it does
If my team takes care of our clients, I want Southern Social to take care of them That matters to me Maybe because I'm still figuring it out myself
The truth is, I still deal with imposter syndrome more often than I'd like to admit There are days I don't want to post on my own Instagram Days I question whether I'm leading well Days we lose proposals Days another agency wins the work Days I wonder if I'm making the right decisions for the people who trust me with their careers.
Failure didn't disappear when the business grew It just got more expensive But somewhere over the last year, I stopped chasing the idea of having it all figured out
Maybe leadership isn't about always having the answers Maybe it's about being willing to keep learning out loud I've learned to celebrate the small upgrades
An exit row seat for thirty-three dollars. Floor tickets because memories are usually worth the splurge A walk along the seawall in Vancouver Dinner with my kids Coffee with my team A client renewing for another year A quiet Sunday after church
For so long, I thought success would feel like crossing a finish line.
Instead, it feels more like learning to appreciate the view while you're still climbing
Year nine has reminded me that businesses grow
Children grow. People grow. And hopefully, so do we.
If there's one thing I'm taking with me into year ten, it's this: Life is too short to postpone joy until everything is perfect.
Order the appetizer. Upgrade the seat. Take the Friday off Go to the wedding Call your mom Hug your people Build the business Pay the taxes Take the walk
And don't forget to look around every once in a while.
