Problem

Two first-time entrepreneurs launched a wine distribution startup and sought assistance with an integrated communications plan to gain visibility in the crowded California wine market. The team lacked assets for their first round of digital and in-person outreach, as well as training on the best mix of tools to achieve their goals. They had been experimenting with basic social media outreach but had not experienced any tangible success.

Solution

I worked together with the two business owners to ramp up its local brand presence via web and social media. First, a modern, responsive website was built on the WordPress platform, showcasing product features and tasting notes from its first shipment of premium wines from a lesser-known European region.

As small producers themselves, the company was interested in communicating in a fresh, approachable way to its consumers, seasoned wine drinkers and those experiencing wine for the first time. I collaborated with certified winemaking experts to craft web copy that resonated with a diverse online audience.

Results

Within the first month of public relations outreach, I secured media coverage on a high-profile food and wine publication, hailing the company’s mission of sourcing rare wines from a unique and untapped region. Other media opportunities secured included travel magazines and in-person sampling events.

The company’s social media engagement also improved, with increased engagement and sales activity, direct to consumer and wholesale. Today, the company boasts over a dozen featured wineries and can be found in prominent Bay Area restaurants and retailers.