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WNC Business

Downtown Waynesville launches "Appalachian True" campaign

Apr 17, 2023 08:33AM ● By WNC Business

WAYNESVILLE - Hornsby Creative, a brand strategy and design studio, has partnered with the Town of Waynesville to brand their new Downtown Waynesville Commission. The studio worked closely with the board to create a new brand identity and promotional campaign that celebrates the town's unique qualities and taps into local pride.

"The new logo and brand identity system included a family of logo marks that can be used in a variety of ways to give them the flexibility needed in today's marketing landscape," said John Hornsby, Founder and Creative Director of Hornsby Creative. "Part of this discovery and design process led to the creation of the 'Appalachian True' campaign, which celebrates the craft, commerce, and quality of life that the town is known for, and evokes the region's rich cultural heritage."

The Downtown Waynesville Commission promotes healthy economic growth while preserving the authentic fabric of downtown Waynesville. They encourage quality stewardship of their small Appalachian town and envision Downtown Waynesville as a gateway to the Smokies where outdoor enthusiasts gear up and wind down. The town celebrates a culture of diversity, and the commission works together with merchants, residents, artists, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs to build a thriving community where everyone feels at home.

“We’re thrilled to launch the ‘Appalachian True’ campaign for Downtown Waynesville,” said Beth Gilmore, Executive Director of the Downtown Waynesville Commission. “Working with Hornsby Creative has been a fantastic experience. We are proud of the product they developed for us. This is a key piece of the organization’s foundation that we will continue to develop into a more comprehensive communication plan.”

Hornsby Creative worked closely with the commission to create clarity and consensus around the values and mission of the organization, as well as exploring with the community what makes downtown Waynesville unique. The new brand identity and promotional campaign reflect the commission's ongoing commitment to promoting economic growth while preserving the town's character, values, and mission.

Plans for developing the new brand include the launch of a new name-brand event focused on Appalachian heritage lifestyle, traditions, and customs. The “Appalachian True” weekend event slated for April 2024 will be a partnership among the DWC, Haywood Community College, Haywood County Arts Council, the Shelton House, and Folkmoot.

About Hornsby Creative:

Hornsby Creative is a brand strategy and design studio that helps clients discover, design, and deliver branded experiences to achieve their purpose profitably.

For more information about Hornsby Creative, please visit HornsbyCreativeGroup.com.

Source and Photo Credit: Hornsby Creative