Case Study: How Smart Bundles Increased Event AOV on Calendarer by 24%

Case Study: How Smart Bundles Increased Event AOV on Calendarer by 24%

Hook: Packaging matters. We ran a nine-week experiment combining smart bundles, calendar-based scarcity, and expanded listing distribution — results exceeded expectations.

The hypothesis

We believed that a combination of curated bundles and better listing reach would increase average order value (AOV) without hurting conversion. We modeled our approach after the smart-bundles techniques outlined in "Case Study: How Smart Bundles Increased Average Order Value 22% on a Deal Site" and adapted it to calendar-driven events.

What we tested

• Bundle A: Ticket + early entry + digital guide
• Bundle B: Ticket + merchandise add-on + priority seating
• Syndication: Publish event capsules to five listing sites using our listing connector; see the ecosystem in "Top 25 Local Listing Sites for Small Businesses in 2026".

Operational approach

We used calendar-based scarcity (e.g., limited VIP slots per session) and automated follow-ups. Implementation patterns for micro-subscriptions and creator co-ops influenced retention incentives; read "Why Micro-Subscriptions and Creator Co-ops Matter for Directories in 2026" for parallels on packaging and community offers.

Results (nine-week pilot)

• Combined AOV uplift: +24%
• Conversion rate change: +3.1% (bundles priced thoughtfully)
• Incremental traffic from syndication: +38%
• No-show delta: neutral (bundles with deposits held attendance steady)

Key learnings

1. Perceived value beats price compression: small, thoughtful additions increased AOV more than steep discounts.
2. Syndication drives incremental reach: broader listing distribution matters if metadata is consistent; see distribution guidance in "Emerging Trends: AI and Automation in Online Listings".
3. Calendar UX must support add-on purchases: make bundles visible at booking and on confirmation cards.

Playbook to replicate

1. Define two bundles per event: one low-commitment, one premium.
2. Sync event capsules to at least three high-quality listing sites; prioritize those with clear local intent as in the "Top 25 Local Listing Sites for Small Businesses in 2026" report.
3. Offer deposit-based holds for premium bundles to balance cashflow and reduce no-shows.

Final reflection

Smart bundles work because they reduce decision friction while increasing perceived utility. When combined with reliable calendar-based scarcity and expanded listing reach, event teams can sustainably raise AOV without compromising attendance.