Go Viral in the Heat of the Moment ☀️

From edit settings to trend hacks—here’s how to win the summer scroll.

Summer’s heating up, and so is your content game. Whether you’re chasing trends or just trying to figure out what to post next, we’ve got the scroll-stopping tips to help you stand out this season:

  • Steal-Worthy Strategies: How to create Instagram content everyone wants to share

  • Trend Watch: The hottest sounds, styles & Reels on social this week

  • June Content Calendar Inspo: What to post when you’re fresh out of ideas

  • Reel Like a Pro: The best video settings for Instagram’s new Edits app

How to Create Instagram Content That Gets Shared

Struggling to get noticed on Instagram? You’re not alone. The key to growth now is shareable content. Shares bring in far more reach than likes or comments—helping your posts get seen by new audiences. Let’s break down how to create content people want to pass along.

According to Instagram expert Brock Johnson, there are five types of content that consistently rack up shares. Here’s how to use them, with examples tailored to different local businesses:

1. Relatable Content: This is the kind of post that makes people say, “OMG, same.” Think memes, jokes, and real-life struggles—specific to your niche.

  • Coffee Shops: “That moment when someone orders a hot coffee... then adds 6 ice cubes.”

  • Retail: “When someone walks in and says, ‘Just browsing,’ but walks out with half the store.”

  • Salons: “You only meant to ‘trim the split ends’ and now you have a bob.”

2. Motivational/Inspirational Content: People love sharing encouragement—especially when it feels personal.

  • Fitness Studios: “You don’t have to be perfect, just consistent.”

  • Local Artists: “You don’t need a million followers to make an impact.”

  • Service Pros: “Every expert was once a beginner. Keep going.”

3. Community/Call-to-Action Content: Get your audience involved in something meaningful.

  • Nonprofits: “Tag a local hero who deserves some love.”

  • Restaurants: “We’re donating $1 from every order to a local food bank this week – spread the word!”

  • Pet Shops: “Adopt, don’t shop – meet our furry friends ready for forever homes.”

4. Controversial (But Respectful) Opinions: These spark convos, not chaos. Think: industry myths, hot takes, or misunderstood advice.

  • Nutritionists: “Carbs aren’t the enemy.”

  • Web Designers: “You don’t need to be on every platform.”

  • Bookstores: “Yes, eBooks count as reading.”

5. Timely, Trend-Driven Content: Tap into cultural moments while they’re still hot.

  • Real Estate: “That first sunny spring day in Rhode Island... and every open house is packed.”

  • Food Trucks: “Patio weather means it’s officially taco season!”

  • Boutiques: “Trending now: linen everything. Yes, even in RI’s unpredictable spring weather.”e bottom line? Content that connects gets shared. And shared content = growth.

🔥 Latest Trends: What’s Hot on Social This Week

Whether you're slinging espresso or handmade earrings, keeping up with trending content is one of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to boost reach and engagement. Here's what's hot on TikTok, Instagram Reels, Facebook, and Shorts—and how you can make it work for your biz:

 Dandelions by Ruth B.
This dreamy song is making waves in its original, slowed, or sped-up versions. Perfect for nostalgic or heartfelt content.
➡️ Use it if you’re a wedding photographer, florist, or jewelry brand—pair clips of your work with the audio to tug on heartstrings.
 💡 Pro tip: Search “Dandelions” on CapCut for ready-to-use templates.

“Send This To” Reels
Encourage viewers to share your post with a friend. It’s a built-in engagement hack!
➡️ Restaurants can use, “Send this to your brunch buddy,” for a reel’s text overlay while boutiques might go with, “Send this to someone who owes you a gift.”

Food Vlogs + Mukbangs
Yes, people still love watching other people eat (and they’re racking up views).
➡️ Restaurants and food trucks: give a behind-the-scenes look at your best-sellers or staff taste tests.
 💡 Not in food? Partner with a foodie influencer to feature your space.

Probably Needed a Hug + Hometown Glory
Emotional audio combo trending hard right now. Think moody lighting and reflective vibes.
➡️ Therapists, coaches, or wellness brands: use this for a gentle nudge about self-care or seeking support.

“For My Next Trick…”
This sarcastic-yet-inspiring trend/ text overlay is all about revealing surprising skills or ironic accomplishments.
➡️ Text on Screen: “For my next trick, I’ll turn one bad Yelp review… into a sold-out brunch every weekend.Use it to showcase your brand glow-up, a product fail-turned-win, or just to make your followers laugh.

POV Reels
Create a “point of view” scenario that feels real, funny, or both.
➡️ “POV: You just found the perfect outfit at our shop.” “POV: You finally book that massage.” Customize for your biz and watch the engagement roll in.

Lemonade by Anna Graceman
This upbeat, cozy track pairs perfectly with lifestyle content.
➡️ Coffee shops, boutiques, artists—showcase your daily rituals, studio process, or a sunny walk around town with this audio in the background.

Celebrate June with Purpose!

June offers meaningful moments to connect with your audience—from eco-conscious actions on World Environment Day to honoring dads, freedom, and sunshine. These national themes are perfect for creative, authentic content that resonates. Let’s make each post count!

World Environment Day (June 5)

  • Post Idea: Highlight your eco-friendly practices or launch a green initiative.

  • Hashtags: #WorldEnvironmentDay #SustainableBusiness

Father’s Day (June 15)

  • Post Idea: Promote gift ideas for dads or share stories of fatherhood within your team.

  • Hashtags: #FathersDay #DadAppreciation

Juneteenth (June 19)

  • Post Idea: Share educational content about Juneteenth or spotlight Black-owned businesses.

  • Hashtags: #Juneteenth #FreedomDay

Summer Solstice (June 21)

  • Post Idea: Celebrate the longest day of the year with a special sale or event.

  • Hashtags: #SummerSolstice #HelloSummer

National Donut Day (June 6)

  • Post Idea: Collaborate with a local bakery for a donut giveaway or feature.

  • Hashtags: #NationalDonutDay #SweetTreats

Social Media Day (June 30)

  • Post Idea: Reflect on your social media journey or share a compilation of your top posts.

  • Hashtags: #SocialMediaDay #ThankYouFollowers

🎶 And the Meme Goes To…

Because sometimes a meme says it better than words ever could – especially when it involves sequins, side-eyes, and surprise wins. 🎤 Click the button below for our favorite America Music Awards meme moments that deserve their own trophy.

Presented by Rhode Island Energy

Turn Up the Comfort, Not the Costs

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Got a burning social media question? Wondering how to get more engagement, what to post next, or if hashtags still matter? 🤔 Now’s your chance to pick a marketer’s brain – no consulting fee required! Drop your questions in our quick survey, and we’ll tackle the hottest topics in an upcoming newsletter. Whether it’s content creation, branding, or social media trends, we’ve got you covered.

Best Video Settings for Instagram’s Edits App

If you're using the new Edits app on Instagram, here's a quick breakdown of the best video settings:

📐 Resolution: Go with 2K (1440x2560). It’s the sweet spot: crystal clear for Instagram and way faster to edit than 4K. You can shoot in 4K for an ultra-sharp archive, but honestly, your followers won’t notice the difference on IG.

🎞️ Frame Rate: Choose between 24, 30, or 60 fps depending on the vibe you’re going for:

  • 24 fps: Dreamy, cinematic feel

  • 30 fps: Your classic video look

  • 60 fps: Super smooth, reality TV-style

🌈 Dynamic Range: You’ve got options—SDR or HDR. HDR gives you more contrast and richer colors, but not everyone loves the look. Luckily, Instagram auto-adjusts for viewers who prefer SDR.

📲Pro Tip for Sharing: Use the “Share to Instagram” button after exporting. This gives your audience the best quality because Instagram can optimize the upload and avoid extra compression.

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Ready to turn those likes into shares and those drafts into gold? Save this newsletter, share it with your content crew, and we’ll catch you next time with more tips to keep your feed (and your brand) on fire.