FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Linzy Browne
Phone: 540-658-8681
Stafford, VA (January 16, 2025) — For the first time ever, Stafford County Economic Development Department and Tourism Department is bringing together business leaders, marketing innovators, and industry professionals for an inspiring day of education and networking at the Tourism and Business Marketing Summit on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Taking place from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center on Sanford Drive, this FREE one-day event promises a transformative experience for local professionals seeking to elevate their businesses.
The highlight of the Summit is a keynote address by Greg Kihlström, a best-selling author, speaker, and entrepreneur renowned for his expertise in marketing technology, operations, and digital transformation. Kihlström has collaborated with some of the most iconic brands in the world, including Adidas, Coca-Cola, FedEx, Marriott, and Toyota, bringing innovative solutions to global challenges. Known for his dynamic presentations and actionable strategies, Kihlström will inspire attendees with his vision for leveraging cutting-edge marketing tools to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.
Breakout Sessions Designed for Impact
In addition to the keynote, the Summit offers a series of breakout sessions tailored to address the needs of businesses at every stage of their marketing journey:
- Social Media Strategies
From beginners to seasoned marketers, this session will empower attendees with practical tools to enhance their social media presence. Learn how to leverage AI for content creation, manage effective ad campaigns, and unlock the true potential of digital platforms. - Branding & Authenticity
Stand out in a crowded marketplace by building a brand that resonates. This session will explore strategies for crafting a compelling brand identity, mastering content creation tools, and embracing the power of authenticity to connect with your audience. - Data Analytics & Optimization
Dive into the world of data-driven decision-making with actionable insights. Attendees will discover how to harness analytics to shape their marketing plans, optimize their online presence, and drive measurable business growth.
Expert Facilitators
Each breakout session will be led by industry experts bringing years of experience in digital marketing, branding, and analytics:
- Zachary Flanagan, CEO of Hive Marketing, empowers home service businesses with data-driven digital marketing strategies.
- Chris Muldrow, owner of Rambletype, a digital marketing firm specializing in small business and tourism strategies.
- Mark DeVito, Emmy Award-winning creative director and brand strategist.
- Caitlin Smith, Social Media Analyst at SimVentions, specializing in digital strategy.
- Annie Plotkin, a paid media strategist with expertise in driving measurable sales growth.
- Jordana Well, Integrated marketing specialist who thrives at the intersection of brand, audience, technology, and story.
- Lindsey Norment, Brand Director at Virginia Tourism Corporation, leads the “Virginia is for Lovers” brand with 15+ years of marketing experience.
- Jay Owen, CEO of Business Builders, founded the award-winning marketing agency 26 years ago, specializing in messaging, websites, and marketing strategies.
Why Attend?
The Tourism and Business Marketing Summit offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with local professionals, learn from industry leaders, and walk away with actionable strategies to implement in your business immediately. Whether you’re a small business owner, marketing manager, or entrepreneur, this event is designed to equip you with tools to succeed in today’s fast-evolving market.
Secure Your Spot Today
Space is limited for this landmark event. To register, visit https://www.tourstaffordva.com/stafford-tourism-and-marketing-business-summit/
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About Stafford County Department of Economic Development | Stafford EDA
The Stafford County Department of Economic Development is the sales and customer service arm for Stafford County, Virginia, committed to advancing expansion and investment for the community. As the official economic development organization of Stafford County, our mission is to promote, solicit and encourage business growth through marketing and media services that enhance economic activity and quality of life within the Stafford region. Stafford County is located halfway between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA. In partnership with the Stafford Economic Development Authority (EDA), the Stafford County Department of Economic Development and the EDA has helped finance and support business growth in Stafford since the EDA’s inception in 1970. In addition to business loan programs, in recent years, the EDA has helped develop a number of vacant and underused properties in Stafford and helped launch the Virginia Smart Community Testbed. For more information on Stafford’s Economic Development and the Stafford EDA, visit www.GoStaffordVA.com and www.StaffordEDA.com, and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, or get connected through the monthly business newsletter.