Cute Dogs, Gnomes and Other DMO Tricks

I admit it: When I heard about the Doggie Bloggie, I let out an audible “Awww.” The silly-but-adorable blog is part of the Yakima Valley VCB’s campaign to promote dog-friendly activities in the Washington wine region—one of four ideas to land a coveted Best Ideas award at the recent Western Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus conference in Eugene, Ore.

Cute, effective and attention-grabbing, this campaign illustrates the value of thoughtful DMO strategizing.  Especially during a down economy—and at a time when people still don’t fully recognize the immense value of tourism and meetings—clever, passionate destination marketing is imperative to the health of the industry.

The Passion of DMOs

A great tagline encapsulates an industry or product with vivid detail. It provides context and inspiration. And it does this in just a few short words.

Based on these criteria, I can officially say the tagline for the recent Destination Management Association International (DMAI) Annual Convention in Seattle is a winner. The mantra:

“Local passion. Global impact.”

Two California Regions Update Brands

Here’s a look at how two regions in California are revamping slogans, logos and names to spur interest.

Mendocino County

St. Louis’ Football Blues

Yes, the NFL season officially ended after another fantastic finish in Super Bowl XLVI last Sunday. For the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission, however, there is still one game left to be played. In case you haven’t heard, the CVC is currently in heated negotiations with the St. Louis Rams football organization over the team’s lease of the Edward Jones Dome, which the CVC currently runs. At stake are thousands of jobs, millions of dollars and the fate of a St. Louis icon, the Rams.

Here is a quick rundown of the situation and how it could affect an important meeting venue in the heart of St. Louis: