top PR trends from the first half of 2025
Public relations has undergone some rapid shifts in the first half of the year—especially for medium-sized businesses in art, architecture, interior design, travel and hospitality. These aren’t just theoretical trends; they’re real-world changes shaping how brands connect with audiences.
Below are the top trends from H1 2025 you should know—especially if you’re working with a PR agency or thinking about hiring one. See something that resonates? Let’s talk.
AI tools are essential—but strategy still triumps. Ask most PR professionals, and they’ll like say AI (i.e. ChatGPT or Jasper) is now part of their daily toolkit. But the real impact comes from combining AI-generated ideas with a refined human strategy. When done right, this combo streamlines media outreach while keeping your brand voice authentic. You’re ahead of the game if you’re using AI to help create media lists—but letting your PR agency tailor each pitch.
Personalized outreach beats generic pitches. In H1 2025, what stood out most wasn’t send-more-email—it was send-the-right-email. Whether you’re pitching an art show or a design project, personalized media outreach is working better than bulk PR blasts. The most effective public relations agencies are investing time in niche research: beat analysis, reference articles, and unique story angles. (PS, you’ll know it’s working when reporters reply. 😉)
Owned media has become just as powerful as earned media. Art galleries are writing behind-the-scenes blog posts. Boutique hotels are launching monthly travel newsletters. Design studios are using podcast episodes to explain their creative process. In 2025, you’re winning if your PR agency builds a content calendar that drives both engagement and search visibility.
Crisis preparedness is no longer optional. Can you say “Kiss-Cam Schadenfreude?” In H1, many experience-based brands scrambled without a plan. The takeaway? Always be ready. The best PR agencies now include pre-set crisis communication playbooks, spokesperson training and media monitoring as standard practice.
Influencer partnerships = earned media strategy. Micro‑and niche influencers are being treated like reporters—with pitches, embargoes, and tailored media assets. In 2025, travel and design clients are seeing real results when influencer posts feel like stories—not ads. You’re succeeding when creators align with your brand’s vision and voice—not when they’re just paid endorsers.
DEI & authentic messaging still lead the pack. Performative statements? Old news. Now, design firms, boutique hotels, and art businesses that showcase genuine values—not marketing ploys—are getting the love. This year’s best campaigns were those that embedded DEI, sustainability or cultural authenticity into everything they do.
PR & SEO collaboration = real brand growth. Features in top media outlets are great—but features that also improve your Google rankings are game‑changers (by the way as of July 10, this also includes Instagram!). In the first half of 2025, savvy brands are optimizing press releases and earned coverage with SEO in mind. Your PR representation is winning if your media placements also drive organic website traffic.
