Smith Mountain Lake Chamber Releases 2022 Visitor Guide, Announces Changes for 2023
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce recently released the 2022 version of its Newcomer and Visitor Guide and announced plans to bring production of the publication in house for 2023.
“We are absolutely thrilled with this year’s visitor guide,” said SMLRCC Executive Director Andy Bruns. “LeisureMedia360, our publishing partner for many, many years, put together a print and digital publication that’s full of life and energy and truly showcases the best of Smith Mountain Lake.”
The Chamber distributes tens of thousands of copies annually of the free, 132-page glossy magazine in key tourism locations throughout the region and state. Website visitors can view the digital version online any time at VisitSmithMountainLake.com or request a mailed copy of the print publication.
The guide includes sections for on-water and off-water activities, dining, shopping, accommodations, events, real estate and lifestyle, as well as a comprehensive business directory and a pull-out map. Bruns noted that the Chamber also focused on promoting SML as a relocation destination for those able to work remotely.
“With remote work opportunities on the rise, more and more people are expressing interest in moving to the lake region to enjoy the slower pace of life, temperate weather and, of course, our amazing outdoor activities,” he said. “We felt this was important to highlight since the goal of the publication is not only to increase tourism but make a lasting economic impact on the SML region.”
Bruns, who has a degree in journalism and built a successful career in publishing before taking over as the SMLRCC’s executive director in June 2021, said he will coordinate production of next year’s publication using established relationships with writers, photographers, graphic designers and ad sales professionals.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for the SMLRCC to leverage the knowledge and skills I acquired working for decades with such publishing heavyweights as Gannett, Schurz Communications and Lee Enterprises,” he said. “And, for the first time ever, each ad in the 2023 edition will include cutting-edge digital advertising that will increase exposure for the region, provide even more value for advertisers and greatly benefit the membership as a whole.”
Tommie-Jo Walker has been contracted to coordinate advertising sales for the 2023 edition and will begin that process immediately. She can be reached at [email protected].
Copies of the 2022 publication are available at the Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center at Bridgewater Plaza. The chamber is always happy to provide boxes of the guide for area locations where they might be picked up. To read the guide online or to request a free copy by mail, log onto visitsmithmountainlake.com/visitor-guide.