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Small business owners and marketing professionals from across Virginia gathered in Stafford County on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, for the inaugural Stafford Tourism & Business Marketing Summit at the Holiday Inn & Conference Center.
The one-day, free event focused on digital marketing, branding, and artificial intelligence, providing attendees with insights into how businesses can enhance their outreach and advertising strategies. The summit featured a keynote address by Greg Kihlström, a best-selling author and consultant specializing in marketing technology and digital transformation.
A Day Packed with Insights and Strategy
The summit’s agenda included breakout sessions on social media strategies, branding, and data analytics, giving business owners tools to enhance their marketing efforts. A panel discussion closed the event, allowing industry experts to share their thoughts on the latest trends in digital marketing.
Among the speakers was Jay Owen, CEO of Business Builders, a marketing agency he founded in 1999. Owen, who has spoken at conferences nationwide, emphasized that the challenges businesses face today are increasingly universal rather than region-specific.
“It’s more globalized now than it ever has been because of the internet,” Owen explained. “Back in the day, what a local community needed marketing-wise was much more niche, but now, most people are staring at their phones half the time anyway. The question is: how do we connect with them wherever they are? Even if I’m a local business, I still need to reach people whether they’re at home or on the go.”
AI’s Growing Influence on Marketing
One of the most talked-about topics of the day was artificial intelligence’s impact on marketing and search engine optimization (SEO). Despite the uncertainty surrounding AI’s influence on marketing, Owen believes businesses should embrace the change rather than fear it.
“There aren’t a lot of hard answers on it yet because of all the AI changes in the world,” he said. “It’s just not what it used to be. That said, I always tell people you’ve got two choices: you can be scared about it or excited about it.”
Speakers and Industry Experts
The event brought together a diverse group of marketing professionals, including:
- Zack Flanagan, CEO of Hive Marketing, who emphasized data-driven marketing strategies
- Chris Muldrow, owner of Rambletype, a Fredericksburg-based digital marketing firm
- Lindsey Norment, Brand Director for the Virginia Tourism Corporation, who discussed the role of tourism marketing in economic development
- Annie Plotkin, a paid media strategist specializing in building brand awareness through digital advertising
- Mark Devito, a three-time Emmy Award-winning creative director, who highlighted the power of storytelling in branding
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
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