In-store events are one of the most powerful ways to turn casual shoppers into loyal fans. They bring your brand to life, create memorable experiences, and give people a reason to walk through your doors right now. The secret to a great turnout? A compelling theme.

Here are 10 creative, traffic-driving in-store event ideas that blend fun, strategy, and on-brand engagement:

In today’s creator-driven economy, brands are constantly looking for new ways to reach customers authentically and cost-effectively. Two strategies at the forefront of digital marketing are influencer marketing and affiliate marketing—and while they often overlap, they’re not the same thing. So, is affiliate marketing the new influencer marketing? Not exactly. But depending on your brand’s goals, one might be a better fit than the other—or you might benefit from using both.

Let’s break it down.

In a world dominated by digital ads and social media, the value of real-life, face-to-face marketing is more powerful than ever. Hosting an in-store event isn't just a fun idea—it’s a strategic move that can generate foot traffic, build loyalty, and create lasting impressions. Whether you're launching a new product or celebrating a seasonal sale, in-store events can be a game-changer for retail brands.

Here are five key benefits of hosting an in-store event:

What’s it really like to lead experience marketing at a billion-dollar retail brand? Spoiler: it’s a crash course in data, storytelling, and brand experience at scale. From hosting high-impact events to building influencer partnerships that convert, here are 10 real-world lessons I learned about what actually moves the needle—and how small brands can apply them, too.