Creative Ways To Get Free Press for Your Brand
How to land free interviews, gain credibility, and build buzz through strategic self-submission (even if no one knows your name yet).
This article is written by our in-house PR Columnist, and PR Agency owner (I Am The Publicist), Wendy Ford. Follow Wendy @iam.thepublicist
Want press for your brand but don’t have a budget?
Good news: You don’t need a publicist, a big PR team, or a suitcase of cash to get featured in articles, podcasts, or interviews. You just need to know where to look, and how to raise your hand in the right way. This guide gives you practical, DIY strategies to start getting coverage now. No paid ads. No “exclusive club” connections. Just you, your story, and some smart outreach.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait for “Someday” Press
A lot of entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners think press comes after you’ve “made it.” The truth? Press is often what helps you get there.
It builds credibility.
It makes you Google-able.
And it makes other people take your work seriously, even if you’re still working from your living room.
With a little intention and a few well-placed emails, you can start showing up in outlets that people recognize, and that help tell your story the way it deserves to be told.
Start with Outlets That Welcome Self-Submissions
There are tons of platforms that want to spotlight fresh voices and rising talent. You just have to introduce yourself (politely, with some personality).
Here are a few easy wins to start with:
Bold Journey
Focus: Entrepreneurial insights, personal stories, values, and goals
Submit: boldjourney.com
Why it’s great: Super simple submission form, gorgeous formatting, and very Google-friendly.
2. Canvas Rebel
Focus: Creative professionals, artists, and change-makers
Submit: Often referral-based, but you can also email or DM them
Tip: Share your creative process, your biggest challenges, and what lights your spark.
3. Voyage Group Outlets (Voyage LA, Voyage Houston, etc.)
Focus: Local creatives and entrepreneurs in major U.S. cities
Submit: Referral-based, but you can request an intro at voyagemedia.com
Insider Tip: Get friendly with someone who’s been featured and ask for a referral link, it bumps your chances.
4. Shoutout Series
Focus: Behind-the-scenes of your brand—why you do what you do
Submit: Usually through Voyage Media’s ecosystem
Why it works: People love to see the human side of your work, not just the polished product.
Pitch Like a Pro (Without Feeling Like a Salesperson)
You don’t have to be a PR pro to write a solid pitch. Follow this simple formula:
Subject Line: Potential Feature – [Your Name], [Your Business Type]
Body:
Introduce yourself and what you do (briefly)
Share your backstory (2–3 sentences)
Highlight a few topics you can speak on
End with a clear call-to-action
Example:
Hi [Editor Name],
I’m a Brooklyn-based artist turning recycled materials into eco-conscious home décor. I grew my business from a kitchen table side hustle into a thriving online store and love inspiring other creatives to start where they are.
I’d love to be considered for a feature in your outlet. I’m happy to provide photos, a full interview, or whatever else you need.
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
[Your Website/Socials]
Bonus Ways to Find Press Opportunities
Help a Reporter Out (HARO): Free daily email of journalist requests
Qwoted: Like HARO but more business-focused
Podcast Guests: Directories where you can pitch yourself to shows
Bottom line: People don’t just want your credentials, they want your why. Share what drives you, how you got started, and the real-life hurdles you’ve faced. The more human you are, the more relatable you become… and the more likely the media will say yes to telling your story.
