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
From the Founder
Bar Olo x Southern Social Mott 32 x Southern Social
Why 2025 Is the Year of Video Featured Work
from the founder
Eight years ago, I launched Southern Social with one big vision: to help brands find their voice, show up with confidence, and connect with their audiences in ways that create real impact What began in the heart of the South partnering with beauty brands, lifestyle businesses, restaurants, and creatives across Nashville and beyond has grown into a full-scale social media agency trusted by over 200+ brands nationwide
Now, it’s time for the next chapter Southern Social is officially expanding into Vancouver We’re going global
Why Vancouver? Because it’s vibrant. It’s growing. And it’s a city full of ambitious entrepreneurs, culture-shapers, and dreamers who deserve the same level of expertise and creative execution we’ve delivered to our clients in the US
Here’s the truth: social media is no longer optional It’s not a “maybe next year” line item or an afterthought it’s the storefront of your brand. It’s the first impression your customers experience before they ever step foot into your business or add an item to their cart Done well, social media builds trust, fuels engagement, and drives revenue Done poorly or not at all and your business is invisible
And let’s be honest: there’s no room anymore for excuses.
No social media? You’re invisible Bad, half-hearted content? It’s costing you more than you think Your cousin’s best friend’s sister who “knows Instagram”? Cute, but not the strategy that will scale your brand.
At Southern Social, we combine southern charm with powerhouse strategy We don’t just post pretty pictures we craft content that works Photo, video, influencer marketing, storytelling it all matters And when it’s done right, it pays off.
So as we bring our expertise to Vancouver, we couldn’t be more excited to connect with you local businesses, entrepreneurs, and visionaries who are ready to elevate their brand Because here’s what I know for sure: when you invest in your story, your brand wins.
Cheers to the next chapter South meets West
keisha
Keisha Olds CEO & Founder, Southern Social Editor, The Social Scoop
bar olo x southern social
PHOTOGRAPHY
WHY 2025 year of IS THE
VANCOUVER BRANDS: video
(AND HOW TO STOP FALLING BEHIND)
By Keisha Olds EDITOR & FOUNDER OF SOUTHERN SOCIAL
Southern Social was born in the South of the US, built on a mix of southern charm, hustle, and a whole lot of caffeine Over eight years, we’ve grown into a creative force trusted by more than 200 brands Now, I couldn’t be more excited to announce that we’re planting roots in Vancouver one of the most visually stunning, trend-forward cities in the world
But here’s the truth: while Vancouver businesses are rich in culture, design, and story, too many are missing the mark on social media In 2025, there’s no excuse for having no social media presence or worse letting your cousin’s best friend “who kinda knows Instagram” run your brand online.
Your social feed is your storefront, your business card, your handshake And if it’s not photo- and video-first? You’re already behind
“branded photo and video aren’t luxuries anymore. They’re your digital storefront and the difference between being seen or scrolled past.”
the vancouver gap
Despite a thriving business scene, local brands often fall into the same traps:
Relying on stock imagery or dark, grainy iPhone photos that don’t do their product justice.
Neglecting short-form video TikToks, Reels, and Shorts where customers actually live and shop
Overlooking micro-influencers, who drive higher engagement at a fraction of big-name costs
Struggling with ROI clarity, because unpolished content doesn’t convert and isn’t tracked to sales.
The result? Feeds that look like afterthoughts instead of brand experiences
why photo & video are non-negotiable in 2025
how southern social can help
This is where we come in At Southern Social, we don’t just “manage” social media We create experiences that stop the scroll and start conversations
Cinematic Short-Form Video
Think Reels, TikToks, Shorts with lifestyle storytelling that clicks with Vancouver’s culture
Branded Photo Assets
Polished, on-brand imagery that elevates perception the second someone lands on your profile.
Influencer Strategy
Local, authentic creators who can amplify your brand story without blowing your budget
ROI Dashboards
Clear analytics linking content views, engagement, and conversions
Storytelling Studio Approach
We help brands act like mini-studios, producing episodic narratives that build loyalty.
why now?
Here’s the urgency: algorithms are prioritizing video more aggressively than ever, consumer attention spans are shrinking, and competitors are already embracing cinematic storytelling
If Vancouver brands don’t invest in photo + video now, they’ll be left playing catch-up while others dominate the digital conversation
local lense
Vancouver has all the ingredients: stunning backdrops, innovative businesses, and audiences hungry for authentic content What’s missing is the bridge between brand and customer and that bridge is high-quality, branded visual storytelling
Southern Social is here to help build it
2025 is the year Vancouver brands stop treating social media as an afterthought and start treating it like the powerful business driver it is Because whether you’re serving lattes, launching a new skincare line, or running a boutique in Gastown if it’s not on social, it’s not happening
The 2025 Video Marketing Stats You Can’t Ignore
of brands say video increases brand awareness 96% of consumers buy after watching a video 87% of marketers see positive ROI 88% of customers trust a brand more after video 72%
FEATURED
work
ACTION camera, cocktails
Why Your Restaurant Needs Us On Your Content Team
By The Social Scoop
SOUTHERN SOCIAL’S MEDIA MAGAZINE
Let’s taco ‘bout something serious: if your restaurant’s social feed is spicier than a plain baked potato, we’ve got beef (And we know just how to shoot it slow motion fork pull and all)
Welcome to the world of restaurant content creation where your menu doesn’t just need to taste good it needs to look scroll-stopping, droolworthy, and trend-savvy That’s where we come in cameras a’blazing, TikTok trends in tow, and a full content production plan so juicy it could be plated next to a medium-rare filet
WHY CONSISTENT CONTENT SHOOTS ARE THE SECRET SAUCE
You can’t post a blurry burger photo from 2019 and expect your reservations to be full Today’s diner scrolls before they stroll your Instagram feed is your storefront If it’s not engaging, consistent, and optimized for conversion (hello, non-follower reach), you’re leaving money and mouthwatering moments on the table
Our secret weapon? Monthly or bi-monthly shoots that stack your social shelves with fresh, vibrant content We’re talking:
Branded photos that bring your food to life
Short-form video content designed to trend on Reels & TikTok
Trending audios synced to your vibe and your vibe only
Signature cocktails that clink in all the right ways
Pinsa moments that prove asking for ranch is a criminal offense (… looking at you, PennePazze Nashville fans)
We’re Not Like the Other Agencies…
We’re not here to hand you a vague list of what you need to do. We’re your CMO sidekick, production team, hype squad, and restaurant whisperers all rolled into one. Here’s what sets Southern Social apart:
We plan every shoot like it’s opening night. From mapping out shot lists to planning model bookings, influencer invites, and trend research we obsess over the details.
You show up. Your chef shows up. That’s it We handle everything else
No dancing required. (Unless you want to Then we’ve got the ring light ready)
Real conversions. We don’t just chase views We create content that engages, entertains, and sells.
Your chef’s got the flavor. We’ve got the flair. Let’s make your restaurant famous..
From luxury date-night dining to grab-and-go smoothie bowls, we work with restaurants all over Nashville and we’ve seen it all. We’ve turned empty patios into packed happy hours, new menu items into viral videos, and sleepy Instagram pages into marketing machines
The Bottom Line?
If you're not investing in regular content, you're not just falling behind you're missing out. Your food deserves more than a few iPhone snaps and a blurry Story share
We bring the strategy. The style. The social sparkle.
So, if you’re ready for your Pinsa to go viral (sans ranch, please), your cocktails to clink across feeds, and your tables to stay full it’s time to call in the pros
hiddencost of BAD Social Media
We all know the old saying: “You get what you pay for” Nowhere is that more true than in the world of social media marketing.
Here in Vancouver, I see ambitious businesses with incredible products and services, but their social feeds tell a different story: blurry photos, random posts, inconsistent branding, or worse no posts at all On the surface, it might look like these brands are “saving money” by doing social in-house But in reality? They’re paying a much higher price
Let’s talk about the hidden cost of bad social media.
1. LOST CREDIBILITY
First impressions happen online long before someone steps into your store, books an appointment, or orders your product A feed that looks sloppy or outdated makes customers wonder:
Is this business even open?
Do they take quality seriously? Can I trust them with my money?
Bad social media is like handing out a wrinkled business card with a coffee stain on it Instead of building trust, it plants doubt And doubt doesn’t buy
2. MISSED SALES
The numbers are undeniable:
87% of consumers say they made a purchase after watching a brand’s video
72% say they trust a brand more after seeing high-quality visual content
When your social media is weak, you’re not just missing likes you’re missing revenue. Every time a potential customer scrolls past your feed without stopping, that’s money walking straight into a competitor’s pocket
By Keisha Olds EDITOR & FOUNDER OF SOUTHERN SOCIAL
3. WASTED TIME (YOUR MOST EXPENSIVE ASSET)
Let’s be honest Your cousin’s roommate who “likes Instagram” isn’t a social media strategist When you assign social media to someone untrained, you’re not only getting poor results you’re wasting their time and yours.
Hours are spent brainstorming, posting, and scrambling for content with little to show for it That’s time you could be investing in your actual business
4. THE EMOTIONAL TOLL
Business owners don’t always talk about it, but managing social media badly takes a mental toll The frustration of seeing low engagement, the embarrassment of being outshined by competitors, the exhaustion of keeping up with trends it all adds up
Social media should be a tool that builds energy for your brand, not drains it
5. FALLING BEHIND IN A VIDEO-FIRST WORLD
In 2025, social media is video-first Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts prioritize short-form video in their algorithms If you’re not showing up with polished photo + video content, you’re invisible Period
Bad or nonexistent video isn’t neutral it actively pushes you further down the feed. And if you’re not seen, you’re not selling.
The Solution: Professional, Branded Social Media
The good news? The costs of bad social media are avoidable With the right strategy and high-quality branded content, your feed becomes:
A digital storefront that builds trust instantly
A sales funnel that converts followers into customers
A brand experience that sets you apart in Vancouver’s competitive market
That’s what we do at Southern Social. We bring cinematic video, branded photography, and proven strategy together so your business looks as good online as it does in real life
The next time you’re tempted to “just post something” or hand social media off to the intern, remember this: Bad social media is more expensive than no social media at all.
Your brand deserves better And so do your customers.
the of red flags “Bad Social Media”
Using stock photos no one believes
Inconsistent posting (3 times one week, silent the next)
Random captions with no strategy
Blurry photos or poor lighting
No video content
Zero connection between social posts and actual sales
$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 2024 revenue.
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
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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 its target audience
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 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
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the shoot: videography
With everything in place, it’s time to shoot the content. The videographer takes the lead in capturing high-quality footage Depending on the complexity of the video, this can involve multiple camera angles, lighting setups, and retakes to ensure the final product is polished During the shoot, the SMM is often on set to ensure the video aligns with the approved creative direction
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post-production: editing
After the footage is captured, the editor steps in 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
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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
why the cost?
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, coordinating, 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?
The cost for creating one video can range from $150 to $1,000 per reel.
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
southern social Custom Social Media Services Built for Growth
In today’s digital landscape, your social media presence isn’t optional it’s essential But for many local businesses, keeping up with content, strategy, and consistent posting feels like a full-time job. That’s where Southern Social comes in.
After 8 years of elevating brands across the southern U S , we’ve expanded into Vancouver with one clear mission: to help businesses like yours build social media strategies that actually work.
Our approach isn’t cookie-cutter. Every package is customized to your needs, but one thing remains constant: we operate on an annual partnership model with a minimum investment of $25,000/year This ensures we’re not just dabbling in your socials we’re building something sustainable, strategic, and profitable over time.
Think of us as your full creative department: part photographer, videographer, strategist, editor, and brand hype team. Whether you need done-for-you management or content only, we have flexible solutions to scale with you
why an annual investment?
Social media results don’t happen overnight True growth takes consistency, data-driven adjustments, and storytelling that evolves with your brand Our annual model ensures you have a dedicated team committed to long-term results not quick fixes.
With a yearly partnership, we’re able to plan smarter, shoot strategically, and create campaigns that drive measurable ROI.
package options & pricing
While every contract is customized, here’s a breakdown of the typical options businesses choose from when partnering with Southern Social:
FULL SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT
For the brand ready to fully outsource
4–5 posts per week across Instagram & Facebook (custom photo + video content)
Strategic reels & short-form video production
Monthly content shoot (2–3 hours, on-location or in-house)
Monthly analytics & strategy calls
Starting at $3,500–$5,000/month INVESTMENT
Daily community management (engagement + DMs)
HYBRID SUPPORT SUPPORT
CONTENT CREATION ONLY CONTENT CREATION ONLY
For the brand that has someone in-house posting but needs professional content
Monthly or quarterly content shoots (photo + video)
Fully edited galleries delivered in ready-to-post format
Branded short-form videos optimized for Reels, TikTok, & Shorts
Shot lists and creative direction included
Starting at $1,500–$2,500/month INVESTMENT
For the brand that wants us as a co-pilot
2–3 weekly posts (we post, you supplement with in-house updates)
Monthly mini content shoots (1–2 hours)
Reel editing from your in-house clips
Story strategy and templates provided
Monthly analytics review
Starting at $2,500–$3,500/month INVESTMENT
EXECUTIVE BRAND PACKAGE EXECUTIVE BRAND PACKAGE
For the business that wants it all
Daily posting across 3–4 platforms
Weekly short-form video drops
Multi-location monthly content shoots
Influencer collaborations & management
Paid ads integration (budget billed separately)
Priority strategy sessions & on-call content support
Starting at $6,000+/month INVESTMENT
Your audience decides in seconds whether to keep scrolling or stop and engage and that decision almost always comes down to content quality. That’s why Southern Social creates branded visuals that not only look incredible but also convert. From restaurant launches to e-commerce campaigns, luxury real estate to wellness studios our work is built to capture attention and drive action If your team is struggling to keep up, or you’ve been relying on “a friend with an iPhone,” it’s time to level up
ready to get started?
With our $25,000/year minimum investment, you’re not just hiring an agency you’re gaining a partner that treats your brand as their own Whether you need content creation, full social management, or a hybrid model, we’ll build a plan that fits.
Reach out today and let’s scale your social. Your audience is waiting.
FA Q5 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
