TOURISM INDUSTRY NEWS & RESOURCES
This partner communication exists to provide timely information on Sonoma County’s tourism and hospitality industry, along with resources to help partners navigate through the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.
October 12, 2021
First, great thanks to everyone involved in SCT’s annual meeting. Accounting and recounting the challenges, opportunities and glimmers of hope following a most challenging year was a monumental task. As we combed through the programs administered by SCT and our partners, I was reminded of the extraordinary creativity, tenacity and innovation all of you exhibited in creating programming that helped keep Sonoma County top of mind among loyal fans and potential visitors. And, great congratulations to our first-ever Stars of the Industry award winners. We celebrate all our industry is doing to retain stellar customer experiences even in light of the myriad obstacles.

As the hues of autumn remind us how glorious fall in Sonoma County can be, it is heartening to see visitors return to the area appreciating the stunning beauty and bounty of the region’s offerings. As SCT continues its commitment to sustainably focused travel, please note the programming that will help us all maximize opportunities for reaching responsible travelers and encouraging our visitors to be part of protecting and preserving Sonoma County. We hope you’ll have a chance to participate.

Here’s to great optimism for a continued robust harvest season.
Claudia Vecchio
President and CEO
Sonoma County Tourism
707-522-5804
Responsible Tourism Marketing & Advertising Opportunities Webinar
Sonoma County Tourism and Miles Partnership invite you to join us on October 28 from 11am-noon for a marketing trends webinar on Responsible Tourism Marketing.

Over the past several years, numerous hospitality businesses have made a commitment to be more socially responsible and inclusive in how they approach their communities as well as their marketing. But finding tangible ways to take action has been more challenging. In this session, we will share trends and specific examples of how you can develop a more inclusive media strategy, target consumers that mirror your community’s values, and create a welcoming digital environment for people with accessibility challenges.

Additionally, Miles will provide an overview of SCT’s valuable audience and promote advertising program opportunities for 2022. 
SCHA Webinar

Bridging the Gap between Tourism and the Community in the Face of Disaster
Wed. October 27 from 9 to 10am via Zoom
Sonoma County Hospitality Association (SCHA) is hosting a forum to start a conversation between the community and the hospitality industry to actively support each other during a disaster. There needs to be a willingness to be prepared with resources and plans that are inclusive of all residents within the local community. Moderator Dr. Nancy Brown will be joined by a stellar panel of forward-looking hospitality/tourism and local emergency leaders.

More information and registration for this free webinar can be found here. 
Sonoma County Tourism’s Road Adoption
SCT has entered into a three-year agreement with Sonoma County Transportation and Public Works to adopt a 1.14 mile stretch of road on Arnold Drive – from the Hwy 12 exit through Chauvet Road. The Arnold Drive segment is home to several partners, including Mayo Family Winery, Gaige House, Glen Ellen Star, Glen Ellen Inn, Laurel Glen Vineyard, Talisman Wine, The Jack London Lodge, Glen Ellen Village Market, and Les Pascals.

As part of this agreement, SCT will be responsible for executing multiple roadside cleanups each year. The first cleanup occurred on September 22, with Sonoma County Tourism staff successfully clearing the roadside of litter and debris. SCT extends its thanks to Mayo Family Winery and Glen Ellen Village Market for allowing staff to utilize parking spaces during the cleanup.

To learn more about the Sonoma County Transportation and Public Works Adopt A Road (AAR) program, contact Clyde Galantine at [email protected]. 
Window Clings for Drought Messaging

Sonoma County Tourism is pleased to offer our partners new window clings encouraging water conservation. Developed in partnership with Sonoma Water, the 7x7 cling is perfect for placement on restroom mirrors above the sink, or anywhere folks might see it. The clings have a QR code that leads readers to learn more at Sonoma Water’s Drought Is Here. Save Water. page.

To order your free window clings:

  1. Visit our Hospitality Hub here.
  2. Go to Collateral > Materials Requests > Add Materials Request (blue button)
  3. Check your contact information and shipping address
  4. Enter the number of clings you would like
  5. Click save

While there, you’re welcome to order cases of the popular Sonoma County Visitors Map, “Sonoma Safe” materials (window clings, posters, fliers, postcards), and “Hospitality Strong” posters.

Don’t have an account with us, or forgot your password? Email our Data & Systems Specialist, Emma Schmitz, at [email protected] and she can assist you.
Footage Request
SCT is seeking b-roll footage from our partners for use in various projects. B-roll of weddings and business meetings are categories of particular need. If used, the footage could provide free exposure for your business. 

Partners willing to contribute footage would need to own the rights to the media, and permit SCT to use the footage without restriction — potentially without attribution to the videographer/provider. SCT will use the content to market the destination and will not sell or earn revenue from your media. Partners interested in providing footage can upload their content to Hightail here.

Questions can be directed to [email protected]. Thank you.
Fall/Winter Visitor Inspiration Guide

As a reminder, SCT’s Fall/Winter 2021-2022 Sonoma County Digital Visitor Inspiration Guide is a great resource to share with your customers to keep them informed of what’s new and happening this season. Help your clients discover new favorite places and can’t-miss happenings by directing them to: sonomacounty.com/guide-order. 
Sustainability Best Practices for Hotels
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) will be offering a Sustainable Hotel Course Nov. 11-26 for hospitality and accommodation professionals to provide practical insights into sustainability practices for hotels.

Delivered as a 2-week-long facilitated and interactive online course, the GSTC Sustainable Hotels Course features expert presentations, resources, and real-life industry examples and lessons on applying sustainability best practices.

For full information, including dates and rates, click here. 
Annual Meeting Video
SCT extends its thanks once again to everyone who attended our 2021 Annual Meeting!

For those unable to attend, a recording of the meeting can be accessed on Sonoma County Tourism’s website here. The video provides updates from SCT, a special presentation on responsible travel from Andrew Leary with the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, a performance from comedian Steve Bruner, and the Stars of the Industry awards.