When you’re running an event, timing is everything. A beautifully designed email or a clever social media post is great, but what if your audience doesn’t see it in time?
That’s where SMS marketing can save the day. With sky-high open rates and near-instant delivery, a simple text message can make the difference between a packed house and empty seats.
From boosting registrations to sending timely reminders and even keeping attendees engaged during the event, SMS is one of the most underrated tools in an event marketer’s toolkit.
The best part? You don’t need to start from scratch. With the right templates, you can save time, stay consistent, and communicate with your audience exactly when it matters most.
In this guide, we’ll explore why SMS is so effective for events, the key touchpoints where it adds value, and share ready-to-use SMS templates you can plug into your campaigns today.
Why SMS Still Matters in Event Marketing?
With endless notifications competing for your audience’s attention, it’s easy for your event updates to get buried in crowded inboxes or lost in the noise of social media feeds. SMS, however, cuts straight through the clutter.
- Unmatched Visibility: Text messages boast open rates as high as 98%, compared to 20-30% for emails. Most are read within minutes.
- Speed & Immediacy: Need to remind attendees an hour before a keynote or alert them about a last-minute schedule change? SMS ensures your message is seen almost instantly.
- Direct & Personal: Unlike ads or posts, SMS feels like a one-to-one conversation, building stronger engagement and trust.
- High ROI: With low costs and high conversion potential, SMS often outperforms other channels when driving attendance and participation.
Be it a corporate event or brand activation, this means fewer no-shows, smoother communication, and a more connected attendee experience. SMS doesn’t replace email or social. It complements them, acting as the real-time channel that ensures no critical update is missed.
Here’s a quick look at how SMS marketing compares to email and social media.
|
Channel |
Open Rate / Reach | Speed of Delivery | Personalization |
Best Use Case |
| SMS | ~98% open rate, most read within minutes | Instant | High (first names, custom links) | Reminders, urgent updates, confirmations |
| 20-30% open rate on average | Minutes to hours (depending on inbox) | High (detailed content, branding) | Invitations, detailed agendas, follow-ups | |
| Social Media | Reach depends on algorithms, often <10% organically | Real-time but easy to miss | Moderate (depends on platform tools) | Event buzz, broad awareness, community engagement |
How Events Can Leverage SMS?
Events are built on moments: moments of anticipation before the big day, excitement during the sessions, and connection long after the event ends. SMS fits perfectly into this journey because it delivers the right message at the right time, directly to your attendees’ pockets.
Here are the key touchpoints where SMS makes a measurable impact:
1. Pre-Event: Build Anticipation & Drive Registrations
- Send exclusive invites to VIPs or loyal attendees.
- Share early-bird ticket offers and limited-time discounts.
- Confirm registrations instantly with personalized thank-you texts.
- Tease the event with speaker highlights, agenda previews, or countdowns.
2. During the Event: Keep Attendees Informed & Engaged
- Share check-in reminders with QR codes or directions to the venue.
- Send real-time agenda updates if sessions change or new speakers are added.
- Nudge attendees with session reminders so they don’t miss key talks.
- Spark engagement through polls, contests, or hashtags to build community buzz.
3. Post-Event: Extend the Experience & Strengthen Relationships
- Thank attendees with a personal note of appreciation.
- Share surveys or feedback forms to capture insights while the event is fresh.
- Offer exclusive access to session recordings, slides, or resources.
- Promote the next event or early registration offers to keep the momentum going.
The beauty of SMS is its versatility. It’s not just a channel for sending reminders. It can help you create a seamless attendee journey where your audience feels guided, valued, and connected at every stage.
SMS Marketing Basics: What You Need to Know
Before you start sending SMS messages for your event, it’s important to understand the key principles and structural details that make your texts effective.
1. Character Limit
- A standard SMS has a 160-character limit.
- Longer messages may be split into multiple texts, which can affect readability and cost.
- Keep your messages concise, clear, and focused on a single action.
2. Call-to-Action (CTA)
- Every SMS should guide the reader toward the next step: register, confirm, check-in, or participate.
- Examples: “Register now: [Link]”, “Vote here: [Link]”, “Watch replay: [Link]”.
3. Personalization
- Use the recipient’s name, ticket type, or session interest to make messages feel one-to-one.
- Personalized messages have higher engagement and click-through rates.
4. Timing & Frequency
- Send reminders strategically, not excessively.
- Pre-event: 1-2 reminders (24 hours and 1-2 hours before).
- During the event: session updates and engagement prompts as needed.
- Post-event: thank-you notes and follow-ups within 24-48 hours.
5. Compliance & Consent
- Only send SMS to recipients who have opted in.
- Include opt-out instructions when necessary to stay compliant with regulations like GDPR, CAN-SPAM, or TCPA.
6. Links & Short URLs
- Use shortened URLs to save characters and track clicks.
- Avoid overloading messages with multiple links; focus on one primary action per SMS.
7. Tone & Clarity
- SMS should be friendly, clear, and actionable.
- Avoid jargon or long sentences. Readers should understand the message in a few seconds.
Let’s now give you ready-to-use SMS marketing templates you can adapt for your event campaigns.
SMS Templates for Marketing Events
Having a solid strategy is only half the battle. Knowing what to say and when is just as important. That’s where these SMS templates can help you. With these pre-crafted messages tailored to each stage of your event, you can save time, stay consistent, and ensure your audience gets the right information at the right moment.
Below, we’ve broken down SMS marketing templates by touchpoints, from invitations and reminders to post-event follow-ups and promotions, so you can plug them into your campaigns and start engaging attendees immediately.
Invitations & Announcements
Purpose: Capture attention and drive early interest.
Information to Include: Event name, date, location (or virtual link), registration link, and any special perks (VIP access, early-bird benefits).
Invitation SMS Templates:
- “Hi [First Name], you’re invited to [Event Name]! Join us on [Date] at [Location]. Register now: [Link]”
- “Something big is coming. Save the date: [Event Name] on [Date]. Details here: [Link]”
- “We’d love to see you at [Event Name]! Early-bird tickets available now: [Link]”
- “VIP Alert! You’re among the first to hear about [Event Name]. Register today: [Link]”
Early-Bird / Promotions
Purpose: Create urgency and incentivize registrations.
Information to Include: Promo details, deadlines, limited availability, and a clear CTA.
Promotional SMS Templates:
- “Don’t miss out! Early-bird prices for [Event Name] end [Deadline]. Secure your spot: [Link]”
- “Flash Sale! Get 20% off tickets for [Event Name] until midnight! [Link]”
- “Only a few early-bird passes left for [Event Name]. Grab yours now: [Link]”
- “Special offer for you: Register for [Event Name] today & save [Discount]. [Link]”
Registration Confirmation
Purpose: Reassure attendees and provide essential details.
Information to Include: Confirmation of registration, date/time, location, and links to agenda or check-in instructions.
Confirmation SMS Templates:
- “You’re in! Thanks for registering for [Event Name] on [Date]. Event details: [Link]”
- “Hi [First Name], your spot at [Event Name] is confirmed! Save the date: [Date/Time].”
- “Registration successful! We can’t wait to see you at [Event Name]. Agenda: [Link]”
- “Thanks for signing up for [Event Name]. Watch your inbox for more updates soon!”
Pre-Event Reminders
Purpose: Reduce no-shows by keeping the event top-of-mind.
Information to Include: Event date/time, venue or link, and highlights to excite attendees.
Reminder SMS Templates:
- “Reminder: [Event Name] is happening tomorrow! Don’t miss it: [Link]”
- “Hi [First Name], just 24 hours until [Event Name]! Details: [Link]”
- “Countdown alert! [Event Name] kicks off in 3 days. See what’s in store: [Link]”
- “[Event Name] is almost here! Be ready to [Event Value] on [Date/Time].”
Last-Minute Reminders (1-2 Hours Before)
Purpose: Prompt immediate action and guide attendees to join.
Information to Include: Start time, venue or virtual link, check-in instructions, and any urgent updates.
Reminder SMS Templates:
- “[Event Name] starts in 1 hour! Join us at [Venue/Link]. We’ll see you soon.”
- “Final call! [Event Name] begins at [Time]. Get ready to check in: [Link/Code]”
- “It’s time! Don’t miss [Session/Keynote] at [Event Name], starting soon.”
- “Hi [First Name], head over to [Event Venue/Link] now. [Event Name] is about to begin!”
During the Event
Purpose: Keep attendees informed, engaged, and active.
Information to Include: Session updates, room changes, engagement opportunities (polls, contests, hashtags).
Event SMS Templates:
- “Welcome to [Event Name], [First Name]! Check in here: [Link/QR].”
- “Update: [Session/Speaker] has moved to [Room/Time]. Full agenda: [Link]”
- “Reminder: [Workshop/Keynote] begins in 15 mins at [Location]. Don’t miss it!”
- “Snap, share, and tag us with #[EventHashtag] for a chance to be featured!”
- “Poll time! Vote for your favorite idea/session here: [Link].”
- “Enjoying the event? Tell us how it’s going: [Link to quick feedback].”
Post-Event Thank Yous
Purpose: Express gratitude and build goodwill for future events.
Information to Include: Appreciation, highlight the value of attendance, and reinforce a positive experience.
Thank You SMS Templates:
- “Thank you for joining [Event Name], [First Name]! We loved having you with us.”
- “Your presence made [Event Name] special. Thanks for being part of it!”
- “Big thanks for attending [Event Name]! Stay tuned for upcoming announcements.”
- “We appreciate you joining [Event Name]! Hope to see you again soon.”
Feedback & Surveys
Purpose: Gather insights while the experience is fresh.
Information to Include: Quick, accessible links to surveys; encourage participation with clear, concise messaging.
Feedback SMS Templates:
- “We’d love your feedback! Share your thoughts on [Event Name]: [Survey Link]”
- “Help us improve! Tell us what you enjoyed most about [Event Name]: [Link]”
- “Quick favor: 2-min survey about [Event Name]. Your opinion matters: [Link]”
- “Thanks for attending! Please rate your experience at [Event Name]: [Link]”
Post-Event Resources / Next Event Promotion
Purpose: Extend the event’s value and drive future engagement.
Information to Include: Access to recordings, slides, exclusive offers, or early registration for the next event.
Post-Event SMS Templates:
- “Missed a session? Watch the replay here: [Link] (Available until [Deadline])”
- “Resources from [Event Name] are ready! Download slides & recordings: [Link]”
- “Good news! Registration for [Next Event] is now live. Reserve your spot early: [Link]”
- “Because you attended [Event Name], enjoy exclusive access to [Next Event] pre-sale: [Link]”
Wrapping Up
SMS marketing is one of the most powerful, direct, and reliable tools in an event marketer’s arsenal. From the very first invitation to post-event follow-ups, the right message at the right time can boost registrations, reduce no-shows, and keep attendees engaged.
Use the SMS templates above as a starting point, then customize them with your event’s voice, branding, and audience insights. Done right, your next SMS campaign can transform casual registrants into enthusiastic attendees.
Need support with all your event content? From SMS and social media posts to emcee scripts, we can take care of it all!
Frequently Asked Questions About SMS Marketing
1. Why should I use SMS for event marketing?
SMS is one of the most effective channels for event communication because it has an extremely high open rate (close to 98%), and messages are read within minutes. Unlike emails or social media posts, which can get lost in crowded inboxes or feeds, SMS delivers your message directly to your audience. It’s ideal for sending reminders, providing last-minute updates, engaging attendees during the event, and following up afterward to maintain connections.
2. When is the best time to send event SMS messages?
For maximum engagement, send SMS messages during times when people are most likely to check their phones. According to Omnisend, these are the best times to send SMS:
- Weekdays: Morning (9 AM-12 PM) and after office hours (5 PM- 9 PM)
- Best days: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
Avoid sending messages too early or late (before 8 AM or after 9 PM). Pre-event reminders should go 24 hours and 1-2 hours before the event, while post-event follow-ups work best within 24-48 hours. While these are general guidelines, it’s essential to consider your specific audience’s habits and preferences. A/B testing can help you determine the most effective send times for your particular audience.
3. How long should an SMS for an event be?
A standard SMS has a 160-character limit. Keeping messages concise ensures they’re easy to read quickly and don’t get split into multiple texts, which can affect readability and cost. Focus on one clear action per message, such as “Register now,” “Check-in here,” or “Vote in our poll.”
4. Do I need consent to send SMS messages?
Yes, to stay compliant with laws such as GDPR or TCPA, you must only send SMS messages to individuals who have opted in. Additionally, it’s good practice to provide an opt-out option (e.g., “Reply STOP to unsubscribe”) so recipients feel in control of their communication preferences.
5. What’s the best way to follow up after an event with SMS?
Post-event SMS messages help extend the attendee experience and maintain engagement. Send personalized thank-you messages, links to session recordings or slides, and short feedback surveys to capture insights while the event is fresh. You can also promote upcoming events or early-bird offers, keeping your audience connected and encouraging repeat attendance.
6. What are the SMS template rules?
When creating SMS templates for events, following best practices and “rules” ensures your messages are effective, professional, and compliant:
- Character Limit: Keep each message under 160 characters to avoid splitting texts.
- Single Call-to-Action (CTA): Focus on one clear action per message, like registering, confirming attendance, or voting in a poll.
- Personalization: Include recipient names, ticket types, or session interests whenever possible to increase engagement.
- Clarity & Brevity: SMS should be concise and easy to read within seconds. Avoid jargon or unnecessary details.
- Timing: Send messages at appropriate times without overwhelming recipients.
- Compliance: Only send to opted-in contacts and include opt-out instructions if required.
- Tracking: Use short links to monitor click-throughs and conversions for better insights.
Following these rules ensures your SMS campaigns are professional, engaging, and legally compliant.
7. What is the best SMS marketing platform?
The “best” SMS platform depends on your event needs, budget, and desired features. Some widely used, reliable options include:
- Twilio: Highly customizable, great for integrating SMS with apps and CRMs. Ideal for tech-savvy teams and larger-scale events.
- SimpleTexting: User-friendly, with templates, scheduling, and analytics. Perfect for small to mid-sized events.
- Podium: Focused on customer engagement with SMS, reviews, and two-way messaging.
- SlickText: Offers robust automation, personalization, and reporting for marketers.
- ClickSend: Simple platform with global reach and easy-to-use campaign tools.
