Most people who know me, know that I grew up in a small town called Winside in Northeast Nebraska. This is a town of about 400 people. It has an Elementary School, High School, general store and a couple bars. Your typical small town Nebraska fare. It’s got a lot going for it, my Grandma’s church was able to get a brand new one built, there’s a new cafe and great people living there. It has a rich history that goes back to 1890 that includes railroads, hospitals and opera houses.

I’ve got a lot of love for my hometown and I’m glad I grew up there. It’s one of the reasons that I want to help businesses in those areas compete with larger companies. It’s been my experience that a unique brand and professional appearance can work wonders to create buzz and attract attention. I think the same goes for towns and communities wanting to promote themselves. Some small towns are on the decline while others are thriving. The ones that are thriving are the ones that have found their identity and do a good job promoting it.

It’s all about being able to differentiate yourself. Find those specific qualities that you or your community offers and showcase them! Is it your schools? The amazing landscape? Is it the attractive business potential? Make people know EXACTLY what you have to offer. Focus your image on the people you WANT to attract and let them come to you. Design is all about that. I know that budgets for many of these communities are limited but what makes these places great is the strength of their communities. Get together, find people with the talent and desire to make their communities better! Make a Facebook page and update it with local events and information about people. Start a blog, create some attractive and consistent community signs. Give your town a personality and brand it! There’s so much potential. Take a look at it for yourself and your community, there’s a lot you can do to strengthen the area you love so much.