This year's Marketing Outlook Summit took place at the Bay Watch Resort & Conference Center, featuring sessions that aim to empower attendees with practical solutions and innovative approaches that can be integrated into their day-to-day marketing plans. Our dynamic sessions covered cutting-edge topics such as AI integration, the latest in SEO & GA 4 analytics, digital accessibility, and crisis management communication.
Speaker Bios & Presentations
August Erickson, Miles Partnership
August Erickson is a Development Manager at Miles Partnership, overseeing the in-house digital accessibility team. August holds a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) certification, a highly rigorous and internationally recognized credential awarded by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP). With fewer than 6,000 certified professionals worldwide, this certification reflects August’s deep expertise and commitment to advancing accessibility standards. August is extremely passionate about providing the highest quality digital products that are inclusive to all.
In this session you'll learn the history of digital accessibility, the existing legal requirements, and the first steps your organization can take to ensure your website is accessible to those with disabilities.
Justin Gibbs - Director of Strategy & Insights, Miles Partnership
Justin directs the Analytics & SEO teams at Miles, ensuring that website activity is being properly measured, while also working to improve their presence in search engines. When he's not working, he can usually be found working on home improvement projects, snowmobiling, gardening, beekeeping, playing with his dog Miles, playing hockey, and terrorizing the neighbors on his 49cc scooter - usually not all at once.
AI is making waves in search—and your travel marketing strategy needs to be ready to ride them. In this session, we'll dive into how AI is transforming search behavior, Google's evolving approach to AI-driven search results, and what it all means for your travel business. We'll cover essential AI concepts and practical tools that DMOs, local partners, and travel professionals can leverage to stay ahead, boost engagement, and create more impactful visitor experiences.
The Power of the Pivot: Maximizing Your Toolbox in an Ever-Changing Digital World
JenAnn Haggerty - Simpleview/Granicus
JenAnn Haggerty is a passionate and results-driven Digital Strategist at Simpleview, bringing a wealth of experience from her start in the DMO world at Destination North Myrtle Beach. Since then, she’s expanded her expertise with Granicus and Simpleview, where she partners with destination organizations to craft successful marketing strategies and impactful campaigns. Known for her collaborative approach, JenAnn combines big-picture thinking with actionable tactics, all while leveraging the expertise of her team to deliver measurable results.
In this session we tackle the essential strategies for navigating today’s dynamic landscape. From AI-powered search to navigating digital platform shifts and economic uncertainties, learn how to adapt and thrive. Discover real-world examples like Brown Dog Deli's TikTok fame and gain insights into optimizing your social strategy, harnessing user-generated content, and leveraging local voices. Don’t miss out—empower your business with actionable tools to stay ahead in the digital age.
Ivie Parker - Ivie Parker Consulting
Ivie Parker is a seasoned expert in public relations and marketing communications, specializing in travel and tourism, hospitality, and lifestyle brands. With a creative, entrepreneurial spirit and a strategic, data-driven approach, she has consistently delivered successful integrated campaigns.
In today’s fast-paced media environment, every destination and business must be equipped to navigate unexpected challenges - from natural disasters to negative viral posts. This introductory session on crisis communications will provide fundamental strategies and practical tools to help organizations respond effectively when a crisis strikes. Attendees will gain essential insights and actionable tips to protect their brand, maintain trust, and communicate during critical moments.
Lauryn Peterson (Miles Partnership) & Erin Graham (Destination North Myrtle Beach)
Join Lauryn Peterson of Miles Partnership and Erin Graham of Destination North Myrtle Beach for a review of where we've been, where we are going, and all the details in between.
Get a behind the scene view of creative ads, media placements, current projects, and future plans!