Plan for low season with local events

Bed and breakfast owners usually know what's going on in the local area. The smart ones are using local events to plan in advance and ensure high occupancy in low season.

When people don't feel like travelling, perhaps because it's the middle of the school term or they've just spent all their money after Christmas, give them a reason to come and stay.

There are many events you can keep any eye out for and promote them to your list of previous satisfied guests including:

• Literary festivals
• Film festivals
• Centenaries
• Anniversaries
• Carnivals
• Local events

You'll know what's going on locally, but the point is to give potential guests a reason to book when they might otherwise have stayed at home.