If you’re running a small business in Kitsap County, you already know the hustle hits different here.

One day you’re meeting customers from across the ferry. The next, you’re chatting with a local who’s known your shop since it opened. Kitsap isn’t just a market, it’s a tight-knit community. And that means your marketing? It needs to fit the vibe.

So instead of some big-city strategy that doesn’t speak your language, here’s a marketing checklist built just for Kitsap County small businesses. Simple. Local. Doable.

Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Know Who You’re Talking To

Before you post another ad or print another flyer, pause for a sec. Ask yourself, who are your people?

In Kitsap, that might be:

• Navy families stationed in Bremerton
• Retirees in Port Orchard
• Artists and entrepreneurs in Poulsbo
• Commuters catching that 7:20 AM ferry to Seattle

Get specific. The more you understand your audience, the easier everything else gets.
👉 Pro tip: Hang out in local Facebook groups or check TheKitsap.com for stories that resonate with your crowd.

Step 2: Set Goals That Actually Mean Something

“More sales” is nice. But how will you know you’re getting there?

Let’s set a few clear goals like:

• 20 new Google reviews in 30 days
• 50% more clicks from your social posts
• 15 new signups for your weekly newsletter

And here’s the kicker, make those goals local. For example:
“Boost my visibility during Silverdale’s summer market” or
“Get 5 referrals from local salons by next month.”

Kitsap’s business rhythm has its own pace, respecting that can make your marketing more effective.

Step 3: Build a Brand That Feels Local

You don’t need a fancy agency. But you do need consistency.

Think:

• A simple logo (that shows up clearly on signs and socials)
• A color palette that feels like you
• A voice that speaks how you speak

And if you can tie it to something, Kitsap, even better. Whether that’s ferry sails, the Olympic mountains, or the salty breeze off Liberty Bay, it creates instant connection.

Step 4: Own Your Online Space

We’ve seen it again and again: businesses with solid Google profiles show up more, get more clicks, and book more customers.

Here’s what to double-check:

• ✅ Your Google Business Profile is claimed and complete
• ✅ Business hours are accurate (especially during holidays!)
• ✅ Photos of your space, products, or team are recent and high-quality
• ✅ You’ve added services or menus if needed

Also, if your website takes forever to load or doesn’t work on phones? You’re losing people before they even meet you. Seriously.

Step 5: Be Social, But With Purpose

You don’t have to be on every platform. But pick one or two (like Facebook and Instagram) and show up consistently.

Things that work well in Kitsap:

• Shoutouts to other local businesses
• Behind-the-scenes of your process or shop
• Sharing upcoming events or markets
• Ferry delays or “morning coffee vibes from Bainbridge” posts

Talk like a neighbor, not a brand. That’s what gets engagement here.

Step 6: Don’t Sleep on Email and Text

Even if social media vanishes tomorrow (hello, algorithm drama), your email list is yours forever.

Start building a simple list with:

• In-store signups
• Website pop-ups
• Freebies like checklists or local guides

You can also try text updates for limited promos, flash sales, or appointment reminders, especially if your business relies on bookings (like salons or spas).

Step 7: Plug into the Community

Here’s the best part of Kitsap marketing: you’re not doing this alone.

Look for ways to collaborate:

• Cross-promote with nearby businesses
• Sponsor a local school event or kids’ sports team
• Offer a small prize for a community raffle or fundraiser
• Get featured on TheKitsap.com or local blogs
• Join a local BNI group or Chamber mixer

Community = credibility here.

Step 8: Work With What You’ve Got (Even If It’s Free)

Marketing doesn’t have to break your budget.

Here are a few no-cost or low-cost tools to help you level up:

• Canva – design flyers, posts, and banners
• Google Workspace – manage emails, docs, and files
• Linktree – organize your links for Instagram bios
• AnswerThePublic – find blog or video topics

Plus, you can always list your business on free directories like Google, Bing, Yelp, TheKitsap.com, and Facebook.

Step 9: Print This Checklist, Use It Every Week

Here’s your local-first marketing checklist. Print it. Stick it on your fridge. Build habits around it.

Weekly:

• Post 1–2 times on socials
• Check your Google reviews
• Join a local conversation online

Monthly:

• Send 1 email to your list
• Collaborate with 1 other Kitsap business
• Update your website photos or content

Quarterly:

• Run a local promotion
• Attend a community event or vendor fair
• Refresh your marketing goals

Step 10: Track What’s Working (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

You don’t need fancy analytics. Just peek at:

• Which posts got the most comments or shares
• Where your website traffic came from
• What people search before landing on your site

If you see something working, double down on it.
If something’s flopping, adjust and move on. Simple.

Final Thoughts

Marketing in Kitsap isn’t about being flashy. It’s about being real, consistent, and plugged in.

If you’ve been overwhelmed or unsure where to start, this checklist gives you a place to focus. No fluff. No pressure to go viral. Just simple, grounded steps that help your Kitsap County business get noticed, loved, and supported.