No Images? Click here FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Stafford, Prince William and Fauquier Counties Name Their Artisan Trail Contacts:
CLICK HERE to download a print version. Virginia: The Artisans Center of Virginia (ACV), in partnership with community members in Stafford, Prince William and Fauquier counties, celebrate the naming of the newest artisan trail in the Virginia Artisan Trail Network system: Washington’s Backyard Artisan Trail Where the Heart of the City Meets the Soul of the Country: Uncover the Uncommon in Stafford, Prince William and Fauquier Counties What is in a name? A name can say so much! After six months of community meetings, lunch & learns, and an exciting amount of creative input and consideration by key stakeholders and the Trail’s management team, consensus has led to the branding of the region’s artisan trail. “The region’s history is America’s history with an abundance of rich and important sites to visit,” said Stafford County Supervisor Gary Snellings. “We are happy to collaborate with Prince William and Fauquier counties on this effort. It makes our region stronger and showcases what makes us so special.” The naming of the trail kicks off the official registration period for trail sites. Although registration in the program is year-round, those who wish to be included in the Trail’s printed launch brochure/map must register by July 7, 2017. About the Trail. The Artisans Trail Network identifies and markets each region’s unique culture and artisan traditions, focusing on “handcrafted and locally grown.” The program is an important economic development and tourism initiative. Connecting and showcasing local businesses and points of interest as a singular, cohesive visitor destination generates increased visibility for the region and encourages extended stays by visitors. WHY VISIT WASHINGTON’S BACKYARD ARTISAN TRAIL? “The region has a lot to offer visitors – artisans, wineries, breweries, diverse dining options, thriving farmer’s markets and much more," said Vice Chairman of the Stafford Board of Supervisors Meg Bohmke. "We are delighted to become a part of this trail." LOCAL BUSINESSES – WHY ENROLL ON THE TRAIL? Enroll on Washington’s Backyard Artisan Trail and receive a unique profile page on the Artisans Trail Network website, www.ArtisansCenterofVirginia.org. The page includes your business description, hours of operation, address, event calendar, and social marketing integrations for event and activity promotions. Each site’s profile will also be marked on the community’s interactive regional map. Join the many local small businesses including breweries and wineries, farmers markets and farms to visit, art studios and galleries, and unique restaurants and accommodations who have already joined the program. "As an artist & local business in Prince William County, the trail is going to give us an extended opportunity to connect with our community & other fellow artists, agri-artists & small businesses. The connections we have made across the three counties (& beyond)—we know will enhance our business now & into the future." Kathy Strauss, Artist/Photographer. The Artisans Center of Virginia’s website with its online trail map has substantive online positioning and traffic making it easy for visitors to personalize and maximize their travels by finding and saving local attractions, shopping, dining, lodging, and points of interest to their personal journey of discovery. Becoming a Trail participant helps your business be found! Join the Trail now and enjoy the benefits of early enrollment! The clock on your annual enrollment dues doesn't start ticking until the official Trail celebration when we release the printed map/brochure. Until then, your exposure via the online member benefits is essentially free ... an added value of time! WHO CAN JOIN? In addition to artisan studios, galleries, and agricultural artisan businesses, supporting sites such as locally-owned lodging, restaurants, festivals, and cultural points of interest, are welcome to become site participants. Interested individuals and businesses located in Stafford, Prince William and Fauquier Counties and their respective cities can download the “Artisan Trail Network Participation Details” explaining the participation criteria and program at www.artisantrailnetwork.org or contact the Artisans Center of Virginia at trails@artisanscenterofvirginia.org. LEARN MORE! Washington’s Backyard Artisan Trail Evening Soiree
Join us at the next public gathering to learn more about becoming a Trail site and how you can help us grow the Trail by becoming an ambassador of the program. Can’t make it to the gathering on April 4th? There will be continual monthly public meetings so be sure to send us your email address and we will keep you updated on upcoming events and Trail developments. You can also download the “Artisan Trail Network Guidelines” from the Artisans Center of Virginia website and contact ACV at trails@artisanscenterofvirginia.org with questions.
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