Upcoming Agritourism Workshops Help Farmers Focus on “Branding” and “Bragging”

NASHVILLE – Farm folk are brought up to be humble. They’re taught not to go around talking about themselves like they’re a big deal, and not to change what’s worked so far. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Marketing Division is trying to change that perception.

 

“It may be uncomfortable to speak in front of people to promote your farm and all it has to offer. But, successful agritourism operators know that long-term marketing and advertising are the fertilizers that make your operation grow,” said Pamela Bartholomew, TDA agritourism coordinator. “This year, our three statewide agritourism workshops will focus on those skills.”

 

The agritourism workshops will be held in Nashville on August 29, in Jackson on August 30 and in White Pine on September 1. The workshops are free to registered guests and lunch will be provided. For farmers who also participate in the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program, attendance at one of these events will help meet the TAEP requirements. An 8:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. registration time is open for those who do not register in advance.

 

“Like any crop, agritourism doesn’t just happen,” said Bartholomew. “There’s a lot of advance planning, labor, inputs and timing involved. Even before they get back home from the workshop, farmers who attend one of these events will be thinking about the changes they want to make for next year.”

 

The workshops will feature marketing professionals to help participants learn the components of effective advertising, logos and other marketing tools essential for sustained success. Sessions include an exploration of product branding and the process of logo development. Participants will also be presented information from TDA on the range of state programs and opportunities for the Tennessee agritourism operators, including how to become part of the longstanding Pick Tennessee Products promotional campaign.

 

Pick Tennessee Products, now in its 25^th year, is the state’s farmer to consumer marketing program which is offered free of charge and includes placement on the Pick Tennessee Products website, www.picktnproducts.org.

 

For more information about the workshops or to register, call TDA at 615-837-5160.

Ellington Agricultural Center - Ed Jones Auditorium,

440 Hogan Road

Nashville, Tenn.

 

Aug. 30, 2011 - 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
West Tennessee Research and Education Center

605 Airways Boulevard

Jackson, Tenn.

Great Smokey Mountain Expo Center