Over the past few days I have been drinking A LOT of coffee.
I've visited over 20 different coffee shops, quite a few grocery stores, libraries, a university campus, food courts and restaurants and even a handful of bars.
I've been handing out "rave" cards and putting up posters promoting The Gateway's Grand Opening service on Sunday, September 13th.
A few observations:
- I love this city! The weather has been fantastic and the city looks beautiful. There are so many cool spaces Des Moines. Definitely the best-kept secret in the midwest.
- Local coffee shops are SO much better than franchises. I've always kind of known this, but have always seemed to end up in a chain. This has given me a chance to see the differences up close. Local baristas are nicer, the coffee tastes better, the stores have more character/charm, and they are all excited about promoting community events (even a new church!)
- The word about Gateway is spreading. I've visited a number of places and asked to display our materials and have been literally overwhelmed with how many respond, with a smile on their face, "Oh The Gateway Church! I've heard of you!" One of our main goals over the past six months was simply to build a positive reputation within the city. It's happening.
- Good design matters. I am with Mark Batterson who says, "The greatest message deserves the greatest marketing." No one wants to put up an ugly sign in their coffee shop; and even if they did, no one would look at it; and even if they did look at it, they wouldn't want to come to your church. Most managers took one look at our sign and put it up right next to the Arts Center promo. Nice!
- Despite everything I just said, there is NOTHING better than a personal touch. I tried to introduce myself to every manager or barista I could and ask permission to put up our sign. This goes a long way. By the way, the people in Des Moines are beautiful!
Anyway, if you are in Des Moines, look for these in a coffee shop near you! And thanks again to Chip and Casey at Fearless Films for the design work. They are the best!
Hey....
I've been trying to follow you on Twitter for a long time, but you have me blocked. What's with that?
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Posted by: Paul Frye | September 09, 2009 at 05:54 AM