Never Underestimate the Power of Your Own Story

Why your story matters

Because people don’t connect with brands, they connect with people and their story.

Whether you’re a chef, a winemaker, a bar manager or a restaurateur, your personal story gives your audience something to relate to. It might be a love story, a moment of epiphany, or a leap of faith, when you decided to be brave and take a risk. Those details – the human bits – build authenticity and trust.

In PR and communications, we see this every day. The most engaging campaigns, social media posts, and media features are those that highlight not just what you do, but why you do it. A brand that leads with story naturally attracts loyalty, emotion and word-of-mouth buzz.

We’ve all heard it before: telling your story works. Yet somehow, it’s still the part most people skip.

The gold is in the moments you’ve lived

Your story isn’t something you have to invent; it already exists in the small, meaningful moments that make you and your business unique.

• The recipe that never leaves your menu because guests won’t let it.
• The customer who told you your food reminded them of home.
• The local supplier you’ve partnered with for a decade.
• The first time you saw a full dining room and realised you’d built something people love.
• The dish you created in honour of someone who taught you how to cook.

These are your narrative touchpoints. The gold in your brand story.

They’re the anecdotes that make journalists lean in, followers stop scrolling, and guests remember why they love coming back.

When shared authentically through your communications, these moments create connection.

Turning your story into strategy

Maybe you’re thinking: “Sure, I have a story, but it’s not that interesting,” or “I have a story, but how do I tell it in a way that really resonates?”

That’s where we come in. We can help you uncover, shape, and share your story, with consistency, emotion, and purpose across every platform.

Here’s how to bring your story to life:

1. Define your “why.

Revisit the heart of your brand. Why did you start? What drives you now? A clear “why” keeps all your messaging aligned,  from press releases to social media captions.

2. Show, don’t just tell.

Bring your story to life visually. Behind-the-scenes videos, candid kitchen moments, a handwritten menu note… These remind people there’s a human behind the brand.

3. Use your voice.

Don’t be afraid to sound like you. Whether that’s relaxed and cheeky or thoughtful and refined, your tone is a key part of your brand identity.

4. Lean into PR and partnerships.

Media coverage, collaborations, and brand features help amplify your story to new audiences. A well-crafted pitch or feature article can turn a personal moment into meaningful exposure. This is what we do best! 

5. Keep evolving.

Your story doesn’t have to be static. As your business grows, your narrative does too, and sharing that evolution keeps audiences invested for the long haul.

The connection that lasts

In hospitality, connection is everything. You create it every day: across the pass, at the bar, or at the table. Your communications should do the same.

When you share your story, you invite your audience to be part of it. You move from being just another venue to being their venue. That’s the magic of authenticity. It doesn’t just build awareness: it builds belonging.

So, never underestimate the power of YOUR OWN STORY. It’s the heartbeat of your place, the reason people care, and the story only YOU can tell.

Ready to share your story?

If you’re in hospitality and want help uncovering, refining, and amplifying your story through PR, communications or social strategy, our team can help. Let’s tell your story! And make people feel something when they hear it.

Reach out today: hilary@turnipmedia.com.au