The Challenge
The Chamber invested in strategic planning over several years, which positioned Cherokee County to become the “next big” quality-of-life destination. Outdoor recreation was identified as an especially strong draw for both livability and tourism.
To fully realize the opportunity, leadership sought an experienced place marketing agency, capable of re-engaging previous local visitors, as well as building fresh regional and national interest.
The Results
- Above-industry average results for a multi-ad dynamic livability campaign on Facebook, Instagram (175.4K Reach, 26,300 Estimated Ad Recall Lift at less than $0.01 per result)
- Above-industry average results for a multi-ad recreation-focused campaign on Facebook, Instagram (585.1K Reach, 48,400 Estimated Ad Recall Lift at less than $0.003 per result)
- Substantial client-reported increases in commerce and tourism, supporting additional integrated placemaking campaigns with Red Sage
- American Advertising Award-winning social campaign “Feed Your Adventure” (Bronze)
The Partner
Positioned in northeast Alabama and home to Weiss Lake, Cherokee County is a small-town retreat within a 2-hour drive of Atlanta, Chattanooga, Huntsville, and Birmingham.
Boasting abundant natural beauty with a cost of living more than 20% below the national average, the community has cross-demographic appeal for recreationalists and retirees alike.
The Cherokee County, Alabama Chamber of Commerce & Tourism has a robust mission supporting business growth, livability initiatives, and travel.
The Solutions
In a series of campaigns, Red Sage leveraged video-driven digital and social advertising, influencer strategies, and custom tactics to captivate core target audiences.
Successful place marketing, including digital marketing in the travel industry, requires authenticity. So focusing on the County’s outdoor appeal for diverse age groups and interests, our creative tapped into core motivators that often get people outside – adventure, discovery, and relaxation.