Pitch tips for landing local press, blog features, and influencer shoutouts that boost visibility and build credibility

Getting featured in the media isn’t just for big brands with PR teams. In Houston’s thriving small business scene, local press coverage can be a game-changer, attracting new customers, fostering trust, and putting your name in front of the right people.

Whether you're a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, earning local media coverage in Houston is within reach. You just need the right story—and the right strategy.

Here’s how to get featured on blogs, in neighborhood publications, and by Houston-based influencers who care about highlighting local businesses.

1. Know What Makes You Newsworthy

Before you reach out to any outlet, ask: What’s your angle?

Local media and blogs are seeking stories, not advertisements. Your pitch needs a hook that makes it relevant, timely, or emotionally engaging.

Great angles include:

A grand opening or product launch
A unique origin story (e.g., a Houston native building a brand from their garage)
A community tie-in (e.g., donating proceeds to a local nonprofit)
A business milestone (e.g., 5-year anniversary, expansion, collaboration)
A solution to a local need (especially in food, culture, or wellness)

Think like a storyteller, not a salesperson. What would you want to read in a local paper or blog?

2. Create a Simple, Clean Press Kit

You don’t need a full PR agency to pitch Houston media, but you do need a few essentials. Put together a small, digital press kit that includes:

A short bio or “About Us” section
Your business story and what sets you apart
High-quality photos of your product, team, or storefront
Links to your website, social media, and press mentions
Contact info (with a real name and email—not just a form)

You can host this as a page on your website or save it as a PDF to attach to emails.

3. Reach Out to Local Blogs & Community Sites

Start with Houston-based outlets that spotlight small businesses.

Here are a few worth reaching out to:

Houston Unlimited – We feature local business spotlights, makers, events, and more. Apply to Get Featured »
365 Things to Do in Houston – Covers events, restaurants, and lifestyle
Houston Eater – Best for food, restaurants, and chefs
The Leader News (Heights) and Community Impact – Hyperlocal coverage
Houstonia Magazine – Covers lifestyle, culture, and innovation

When you email, keep it short and specific:

Who you are
Why your story matters
What kind of feature or mention you’re requesting
Link to your press kit or media-ready photos

4. Connect with Local Influencers (The Right Way)

Houston has a strong network of micro-influencers, niche bloggers, and content creators who love shouting out local businesses. Think foodies, moms, lifestyle bloggers, and community accounts.

To stand out:

Follow them first and engage with their content
Send a personalized DM or email, not a generic “hey, collab?” message
Offer value: a product sample, discount, behind-the-scenes experience, or content swap
Make it easy for them with photos, links, and your “why”

Don’t ask for a post upfront. Focus on building a real relationship, and features will follow.

5. Repurpose & Share Your Features Everywhere

Once you land a feature, share it like crazy. It’s not just content—it’s social proof.

Post on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn
Add a “Featured In” section to your website
Use it in email marketing and pitch decks
Screenshot it for Instagram Stories with a thank-you tag
Pin it to your Google Business Profile or Yelp page

Every share extends the reach of your story—and reinforces your reputation as a trusted local brand.

Final Word: Media Builds Momentum

You don’t have to be famous to get featured. You just have to show up with a good story, a clear ask, and a little Houston hustle.

Start local. Start small. Pitch with purpose. And don’t underestimate the power of one good feature—it can open doors to new customers, partnerships, and press opportunities down the line.

Want to be featured on Houston Unlimited?
We spotlight small businesses, makers, creatives, and community champions all across the city.
Apply to Get Featured »

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Know a small business that deserves the spotlight?
Send your recommendations to feature@houstonunlimited.com. We love sharing local stories.

Want to feature your business?
Apply here to get featured and showcase your brand to our growing community of Houston locals.

Let’s keep Houston’s creative spirit thriving—together. 💛

How to Get Featured in Houston Media as a Small Business