Our News

A trio of new talent 

Priority Marketing recently welcomed three new members to the team.

Ryan Davis

Ryan joins our team as a Digital and Email Marketing Strategist. In this role, Ryan helps clients achieve their goals through effective email and digital strategies. Ryan writes, executes and schedules e-newsletters, email blasts and campaigns, and audits those campaigns to ensure clients’ goals and objectives are reached. He also develops and integrates digital automation tactics, maintains clients’ online listings on multiple platforms, develops paid social ads and provides support for livestreams and podcasts.

Prior to joining Priority Marketing, Ryan worked as director of marketing and audience development for a nonprofit organization based in Fort Myers. Ryan also co-founded a digital consulting firm focused on the transportation industry and has experience as an event, sales and marketing coordinator; communications director; and theatrical technical director.

Ryan earned an associate degree in general studies from Florida State University and a bachelor’s degree in music management from Florida Southern College.

Payton Richárd

Payton is a Marketing Coordinator, a cross-functional role that provides assistance to the account and client services team in the day-to-day management of accounts. Some of Payton’s duties include responding to phone calls and emails from clients, as well as assigning projects, managing budgets and coordinating production deadlines, creative deadlines and media placements to ensure continued progress of client workflow.

Prior to joining Priority Marketing, Payton was a sports marketing sales manager for a North Carolina-based multicultural and sports marketing company. He also worked as a project manager assistant for a construction firm specializing in the design, development, construction and installation of high-performing sports surfaces.

Payton earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Ryan Carr

Ryan is a Videographer and Editor for the creative services team. He plans, directs, produces, films and edits studio-quality commercials and videos. His videos have been screened at fundraising events, board meetings and corporate events, and also have appeared on social media and websites. Additionally, Ryan shoots news footage from client events to share with local media.

Prior to joining Priority Marketing, Ryan was a travel cinematographer for a Utah-based real estate investor, author and speaker. He also has experience as a film company owner, cinematographer for an informercial company, wedding videographer and a video director for several studios and marketing companies.

Ryan earned a bachelor’s degree in cinematography and film/video production from Brigham Young University.

And the award for ‘Best Public Relations Firm’ goes to… 

Hot off the press! Priority Marketing was recognized by Gulfshore Business as the “Best Public Relations Firm” in Southwest Florida. The firm also was honored as a finalist in the category of “Best Advertising Agency.” 

Our team is so grateful to everyone who voted for Priority Marketing – thank you!

Additionally, we would like to shine light on some of our amazing clients that also were recognized, including: 

• • • • • • Best Engineering Firm: Hole Montes, Inc. 
          • Best Commercial Electrical Contractor: B&I Contractors, Inc 
          • Best Commercial HVAC Contractor: B&I Contractors 
          • Best Fleet Maintenance Company: Terry Wynter Auto Service Center 
          • Finalist – Best Life Insurance Agent: Benson Blackburn AND Case Life Solutions 
          • Finalist – Best Payroll Company: Integrity Employee Leasing, Inc. 
          • Finalist – Best Commercial Real Estate Agency (Purchase): LSI Companies 
          • Finalist – Best IT Services Contractor: CRS Technology Consultants 
          • Finalist – Best Networking Restaurant/Bar: Fort Myers Brewing Company

Duo earns new industry credentials  

A pair of talented Priority Marketing team members have recently earned new marketing credentials. 

Senior Social Media Specialist Katie Taylor completed the University of Central Florida’s Digital Marketing Boot Camp, an 18-week continuing education program that examines digital advertising, web design, campaign analysis, content marketing and more. Course content covered Google Ads, Google Analytics, Facebook ads, WordPress, email programs, search engine optimization and other digital marketing programs. 

Katie joined Priority Marketing in 2019 and is responsible for developing, planning and managing organic and paid social media and email strategies to help businesses achieve their marketing goals. 

Marketing Coordinator Elise Rose is now a Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) after earning dual certification through the Digital Marketing Institute and the American Marketing Association. To earn the CDMP designation, Elise completed coursework focused on digital marketing concepts and strategy, content marketing, social media marketing, paid search, video and display advertising, SEO, email marketing, website optimization and Google Analytics. 

Elise initially joined Priority Marketing in 2017 and provides support for the account services team, managing email marketing programs, coordinating social media, drafting newsletter content and providing project assistance as needed. 

Kevin McDade joins Priority Marketing 

A longtime advertising and marketing professional, Kevin McDade, has joined Priority Marketing as a media buyer. 

In this role, Kevin is responsible for planning annual budgets, negotiating buys, sending orders and artwork, reconciling invoices, researching media outlets, auditing media and maintaining media department records. Priority Marketing’s Media Buying department coordinates TV, radio, outdoor, newspaper, magazine and online media for nonprofit and for-profit clients across multiple causes and industries. 

Kevin has held a variety of roles in an advertising career that spans more than two decades, including senior media buyer, finance manager, media supervisor, media buyer and media assistant for advertising and marketing firms in Florida and Georgia. He is an Air Force veteran with expertise in logistics, heavy equipment, transportation and fleet management, and is a distinguished graduate of the Air Force’s Leadership School.  

Priority Marketing celebrates professional growth  

Several Priority Marketing team members have recently grown into new roles and responsibilities with the company. President and Senior Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR, announced promotions for several individuals who have excelled in their positions while delivering outstanding results to clients. 

 “Our growth as a company, as well as the growth of our clients, is directly tied to the professional growth and development of our employees,” Hansen said. “Talent and experience help drive results, and we take great pride in creating a work environment where team members are encouraged to continue learning and broadening their skill sets through a variety of roles and responsibilities.” 

 Recent employee advancements include: 

 Alyssa Gonzalez, Assistant Director of Account Services 

Alyssa began working at Priority Marketing in 2014 as a marketing coordinator and has grown into roles as an assistant account manager and account manager. In her new role, Alyssa will continue planning, implementing and managing integrated campaigns for clients while also focusing on the firm’s operational processes.  

 Nicki McTeague: Assistant Director of Account Services 

Nicki joined Priority Marketing in 2018 as an account manager charged with developing strategies to achieve marketing goals for clients in the public and private sector. In her new role, Nicki will continue providing solution-driven services while focusing on strategy development for clients across a variety of industries. 

Megan Garner, Senior Account Manager 

Megan joined Priority Marketing in 2018 as an account manager and collaborates with the firm’s creative, media, public relations and digital teams to develop solutions for clients. In her new role, Megan will continue passionately serving clients while also leading special agency projects and helping develop others on the account team. 

Teri’s tips for jumpstarting a business 

President and Senior Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR, will share insights and strategies learned over the past 29 years leading Priority Marketing during panel discussion on July 7. 

 Hosted by the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee, the session – “Starting or Jumpstarting Your Business” – will feature Teri alongside panelists across different industries for a lively discussion educating and inspiring business leaders in Southwest Florida. Elizabeth Goldbach from FGCU’s Florida Small Business Development Center will moderate the discussion. 

 Teri founded Priority Marketing in 1992, and today the company is the region’s largest full-service marketing, advertising, public relations, web development and digital marketing agency. The firm employs more than 40 full-time marketing professionals. 

 The chamber’s networking event will be held from 5:15 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 7 at Florida Repertory Theatre, 2267 First St. in Fort Myers. The Women in Business program is $10 for chamber members and $20 for future members. Admission includes one complimentary beverage and light appetizers. 

 Register in advance at FortMyers.org.  

Learn social media tips from our experts 

Business and nonprofit leaders looking to elevate their social media presence can learn from two of Priority Marketing’s social media experts during upcoming workshops. 

Senior Social Media Specialist Katie Armes-Taylor and Senior Account Manager Megan Garner are featured presenters through workshops hosted by the Above Board Chamber of Florida. 

“Diving Deeper into Social Media” will feature workshops for audiences in Lee and Collier counties. Sessions on July 8 and July 12 are geared toward the business community and will focus on the important of social media and how businesses can correctly use the digital platforms. Two sessions are available: 

• July 8: Crowne Plaza Hotel, 13051 Bell Tower Drive in Fort Myers 
• July 12: Hilton Naples, 5111 Tamiami Trail N. in Naples 

Megan will lead a breakout table on July 8, focusing on social media reporting and analytics. Katie will lead discussion tables on both dates and focus on Facebook, the world’s largest social media platform. 

At Priority Marketing, Megan provides strategic marketing solutions for a diverse client base that ranges all industries, including small start-ups, large businesses and nonprofits. With more than 17 years of marketing experience, her expertise encompasses all facets of marketing, specializing in digital marketing and social media. 

Katie is responsible for developing, planning and managing organic and paid social media and email strategies to help businesses achieve their marketing goals. Katie is passionate about serving her diverse array of clients and providing unique and comprehensive digital marketing strategies with measurable results. 

To register, please visit AboveBoardChamber.com.  

Priority Marketing collects two Telly Awards

Priority Marketing earned two international Telly Awards recognizing the firm’s outstanding work in video production.

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards is a premier global competition honoring excellence in local, regional and cable television commercials, as well as non-broadcast video and television programming. Winners represent some of the most respected advertising agencies, television stations, production companies and publishers around the world.

Priority Marketing earned Telly Awards for the following videos:

• Silver (Branded Content – Cause Marketing category): Kids’ Minds Matter Secret Garden Gala 2020

• Bronze (Branded Content – Corporate Image category): Priority Marketing Agency Video

As a full-service firm, Priority Marketing’s turnkey video production services include concepting, scriptwriting, video shoot coordination, directing, filming, editing and production, animation and motion graphics.

“No medium is more powerful than video as it uses sound and motion to evoke emotion,” said Priority Marketing President and Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR. “The Telly Awards recognize the best professional video content across all platforms, and our team is extremely proud to win these prestigious awards.”

Priority Marketing welcomes Sorena Vargas as marketing coordinator 

Sorena Vargas has joined Priority Marketing as a marketing coordinator to help facilitate communications and projects between clients and the firm’s creative professionals. 

Sorena’s responsibilities include providing support for the account services team, managing email marketing programs, coordinating social media, drafting newsletter content and providing project assistance as needed. 

Before joining Priority Marketing, Sorena was a graphic designer for a Bonita Springs-based firm that provided comprehensive business services to startup companies. Sorena also has experience in the tourism, education, real estate and technology industries. She is an active member of the Florida Public Relations Association’s Southwest Florida chapter and serves as its seminars chair. 

Sorena received a bachelor’s degree in communication from Florida Gulf Coast University, where she currently serves as vice president of the FGCU Alumni Association for the Fort Myers chapter. 

Former TV reporter Noelani Fender joins PR team 

Priority Marketing has hired Noelani Fender as a media relations specialist for the firm’s growing public relations department. 

In her role, Noelani will help tell clients’ stories through television, print, digital and social media. Her responsibilities include writing news releases, guest articles and op-eds, as well as pitching stories to target media. As a former TV journalist, Noelani also produces and edits video interviews and B-roll video to help create news packages. 

Noelani’s media experience includes roles as a features and enterprise reporter for FOX4 in Southwest Florida, as well as a bureau multimedia journalist for WCTV Eyewitness News in Tallahassee and WALB News 10 in Albany, Georgia. Prior roles include social media manager, media specialist and public information intern. The journalism textbook “Broadcast News Writing, Reporting and Producing” profiles Noelani, giving readers a glimpse into the working life of today’s broadcast journalist.  

Noelani earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in mass media from Valdosta State University, minoring in speech communication. 

Celebrating eight awards earned from FPRA Southwest Florida’s Image Awards

Priority Marketing was honored by the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) Southwest Florida Chapter for outstanding public relations programs, winning a total of eight awards at the local chapter’s 2021 Image Awards on April 15. Honors included the highest recognition of the evening, the Grand Image Award, in two categories for collateral and digital tools of public relations.

FPRA Southwest Florida Chapter’s annual Image Awards is a prestigious competition that recognizes the of public relations professionals across the region. Priority Marketing’s 2021 Image Award winners include:

• Image Award and Grand All Award for the creation of an annual impact report for Guadalupe Center to educate recipients while raising financial support. The report nearly doubled contributions for 2020.
• Image Award and Grand All Award for the development of a compelling public service video for Kids’ Minds Matter, which helped raise $2.6 million at the nonprofit’s annual Secret Garden Gala fundraising event.
• Image Award for the creative execution of an eye-catching invitation for Guadalupe Center’s virtual fundraising event, Circtacular, that drove more than 100 paid registrations for the circus-themed extravaganza, which ultimately raised $1 million.
• Award of Distinction and Judges’ Award for the execution of the Clips for Cancer campaign for Lee Health Foundation, which promoted childhood cancer awareness while raising critical funds for Barbara’s Friends.
• Award of Distinction for efforts to raise awareness of Fort Myers Brewing Company’s six-pack craft beer fundraiser, Adyn Strong, that rallied the community to raise funds for an eight-year-old boy with cancer and his family.

Priority Marketing weighs in at 145.5 pounds (of PB&J) 

Priority Marketing tipped the scales at 145.5 pounds during Community Cooperative’s weigh-in event concluding the nonprofit’s Peanut Butter & Jelly Drive. 

Community Cooperative asked local businesses to donate peanut butter and jelly, which are among the organization’s most-requested items because they’re kid-friendly, shelf stable and protein-rich. The annual collection also honors Community Cooperative’s late founder Sam Galloway Jr., who began the Soup Kitchen 37 years ago by handing out peanut butter and jelly sandwiches after church in downtown Fort Myers. 

Community Cooperative is continuing to collect donations that will help replenish pantries in the coming months. For more information, please visit CommunityCooperative.com. 

Teri Hansen named a finalist for Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year

Priority Marketing President and Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR, has been named a finalist for the Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year award presented by the Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University. The award recognizes a business owner who models innovative and cutting-edge approaches to corporate culture, employee programs and integrated new technologies.

Teri has been the impetus behind thousands of success stories since founding Priority Marketing in 1992, leading our talented, passionate team in their quest to deliver creative and innovative solutions for our client partners. The winner will be announced May 4.

Teri Hansen shares insights, life lessons on Women’s Day 

Like many women, Teri Hansen wanted to make her family a priority without sacrificing her career aspirations. She founded Priority Marketing in 1992 and ran the company from home until her daughter reached school age. Fast-forward 29 years, and Teri leads the region’s largest full-service marketing, advertising, public relations, web development and digital marketing agency with more than 40 full-time employees. 

In honor of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, which is celebrated every March, Teri was asked to participate in an inspiring, hourlong panel discussion at Gulf Coast Village. She was joined on stage by three distinguished women: Gloria Tate, Cheryl Leftwich and Margaret Djerf. 

During the discussion, Teri’s words of wisdom included these six points:  

• Draw inspiration from what’s around you 
• Accept guidance from mentors 
• Live one day at a time 
• Be willing to help others 
• Identify and overcome challenges 
• Don’t be afraid to change direction 

After the event, Teri drafted a guest opinion that was published in The News-Press and Naples Daily News. Read the full blog online by clicking the headline: International Women’s Day offers inspiration, satisfaction. 

GrowFL honors Priority Marketing as ‘Company to Watch’ in Florida

Priority Marketing was honored as one of GrowFL’s top 50 “Companies to Watch” during the organization’s virtual recognition ceremony on Feb. 18.

GrowFL is a statewide organization focused exclusively on second-stage and emerging second-stage growth companies. Second-stage companies are defined as those with six to 150 full-time employees and between $750,000 and $100 million in annual revenue. GrowFL’s philosophy is to identify, serve and celebrate companies that have the best potential to contribute to Florida’s economy.

Priority Marketing was one of just three companies in Southwest Florida, and the only from Lee County, recognized as a Company to Watch.

GrowFL Founder Tom O’Neal introduced Priority Marketing President and Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR, during the Companies to Watch recognition ceremony.

“These stand-out companies are all led by entrepreneurs, and have demonstrated not only their willingness to grow, but their capacity to do it successfully,” O’Neal said. “They are all positioned to make a significant impact on Florida’s economy with their products, services, critical intellectual property or a niche position that gives them a competitive edge in their markets. These business owners demonstrate strong leadership, philanthropic involvement, perseverance and all it means to be an entrepreneur.”

Hansen founded Priority Marketing in 1992, and today it is the region’s largest marketing firm delivering solutions to for-profit and nonprofit clients across the region, state and nation. Priority Marketing has grown to employ more than 40 full-time professionals.

GrowFL’s Companies to Watch program was developed by the Edward Lowe Foundation and honors impressive second-stage companies that are developing valuable products and services, creating quality jobs, enriching communities and broadening new industries throughout Florida.

Priority Marketing’s Teri Hansen named among nation’s ‘Top Women in PR’ by PRNEWS

Priority Marketing President and Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR, was named by PRNEWS as a 2020 “Top Women in PR” honoree.  

Hansen was one of just 89 women selected across the country for this recognition. This year’s honorees were recognized for their ability to think outside the box, creating new programs that are driving business results in the midst of a global pandemic. According to PRNEWS, “honorees demonstrated significant passion for their work even beyond their (virtual) office doors, often taking on pro bono communications work, in addition to advancing women leadership and/or diversity initiatives, both inside their respective organizations as well as in volunteer capacities outside of office hours.”   

Hansen founded Priority Marketing in 1992 as the firm’s sole employee. Today, Priority Marketing is the region’s largest marketing firm delivering solutions to for-profit and nonprofit clients across the region, state and nation. The company has grown to employ approximately 40 full-time professionals that provide marketing, advertising, public relations, web development and digital marketing services.  

“It’s truly humbling to be named as one of the top women in the PR industry,” Hansen said. “To be recognized among this group of women who are making such an impact on this industry and across the nation is an incredible honor.”   

Individuals recognized by PRNEWS as Top Women in PR cover the breadth and depth of the industry, from internal communications and community relations to crisis management, media relations and beyond. They represent healthcare, finance, education, entertainment and additional fields.  

Priority Marketing’s clients include a broad spectrum of industries, including hospitality and tourism, retail, health care, senior living, construction, legal, financial, government, education and locally-owned businesses. The firm also is Southwest Florida’s premier agency for nonprofits and actively represents more than two dozen charitable organizations. Since its inception, Priority Marketing has contributed more than $3 million in pro bono and discounted professional services for nonprofits serving the community.  

In 2020, Hansen also was honored by the University of South Florida Alumni Association as a USF Fast 56 Award winner, a program that recognizes the world’s fastest-growing businesses owned or operated by Bulls alumni. She also was a finalist for Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year through the Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University. Additionally in 2020, the Priority Marketing was honored by GrowFL as a Company to Watch, PRNEWS as an Agency Elite Top 100 and SWFL Inc. as a finalist for Small Business of the Year. 

Gulfshore Life’s Best of the Gulfshore voting ends Jan. 31

Online voting for Gulfshore Life magazine’s annual Best of the Gulfshore ends Jan. 31. Best of the Gulfshore highlights locally owned and operated businesses and their services, including many of Priority Marketing’s clients and business partners. 

In 2021, Best of the Gulfshore features 10 sections and multiple categories within each section: 

• Arts, Entertainment & Shopping 
• Attractions & Resorts  
• Recreation & Fitness 
• Beauty & Wellness  
• Home Services  
• Services 
• Restaurant: Cuisine  
• Restaurant: Food Item  
• Restaurant: Dining Amenities  
• Best Drinks & Dessert 

 There are separate ballots for Lee and Collier counties. Winners are determined based solely on reader votes. 

VOTE NOW: Best of the Gulfshore 

Priority Marketing partners with Guadalupe Center on virtual event, Circtacular, raising $950,000 

As the saying goes, the show must go on! Priority Marketing’s longstanding partnership with Guadalupe Center made certain the nonprofit’s annual fundraising gala continued to amaze. 

Held Jan. 21, Circtacular captured the excitement and energy of the circus under a virtual big top. The event is Guadalupe Center’s largest annual fundraising event, but switched to a virtual format in 2021 because of COVID-19. 

The lively production was filled with special effects, comedic performances, compelling videos, heartfelt testimonials from students and interactive ways for audience members to have a lifechanging impact on children and families in Immokalee. Guests helped rewrite the stars and experience “The Magic. The Mission. The Moment.” The event was capped with Guadalupe Center’s popular Jump Up for Education, an inspiring call for support that allows attendees make a lasting, transformational impact for more than 1,400 students in Immokalee. Supporters answered that call for support, donating a record amount during the Jump Up en route to raising more than $950,000 to support educational programs and services!

Priority Marketing, an experienced virtual event planner, help conceptualize Circtacular and provided an integrated marketing plan focused on generating awareness and support for Guadalupe Center. Services provided included: 

• Concept and theme development
• Event management and execution
• Scriptwriting, presentation development and production direction
• Video production
• Invitation and collateral design
• Website development
• Public relations and media relations
• Social media content development
• Email marketing

The full video is available through Vimeo by clicking this link: Circtacular. Guadalupe Center supporters still can make an impact on the lives of children and families by visiting the nonprofit’s How to Give page.

Priority Marketing named ‘Company to Watch’ by GrowFL 

GrowFL has honored Priority Marketing as a 2020 Company to Watch, a prestigious designation that recognizes second-stage businesses poised for significant growth over the next several years. 

Priority Marketing was the only company in Lee County, and one of just three in Southwest Florida, to be named as a 2020 honoree. Teri Hansen founded Priority Marketing in 1992, and today it is the region’s largest marketing firm delivering solutions to for-profit and nonprofit clients across the region, state and nation. Priority Marketing has grown to employ more than 40 full-time professionals. 

“Florida is home to more than 2.5 million small businesses, so being recognized as one of just 50 top-performing businesses is quite an honor,” said Priority Marketing President and Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR. “The companies and nonprofits we serve recognize that effective marketing, advertising, public relations and digital marketing solutions will help advance their organizations, and we’ve had to grow to help them grow.” 

Now in its 10th year, GrowFL’s Companies to Watch program was developed by the Edward Lowe Foundation and honors impressive second-stage companies that are developing valuable products and services, creating quality jobs, enriching communities and broadening new industries throughout Florida. 

GrowFL announced 50 honorees on Nov. 10 from a pool of 82 finalists named in September. The organization received more than 400 nominations for the award this year. 

Honorees were selected after a final round of judging by a panel of independent judges comprised of past honorees, economic development leaders and corporate partners of GrowFL. Companies were judged on criteria that include growth in number of employees; impact of the business in the job market; increase in sales and/or unit volume; current and past financial reports; innovativeness of the product or service; response to adversity; and contributions to aid community-oriented projects. 

“These stand-out companies are all led by entrepreneurs, and have demonstrated not only their willingness to grow, but their capacity to do it successfully,” said GrowFL Founder Tom O’Neal. “They are all positioned to make a significant impact on Florida’s economy with their products, services, critical intellectual property or a niche position that gives them a competitive edge in their markets. These business owners demonstrate strong leadership, philanthropic involvement, perseverance and all it means to be an entrepreneur.” 

“The 50 second-stage companies named as GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch honorees reflect the exceptional leaders who are making a difference in growing and diversifying the state of Florida,” added Jennifer Barrows, chairwoman of the GrowFL Advisory Board. 

Second-stage companies are defined as those with six to 150 full-time employees and between $750,000 and $100 million in annual revenue. 

From 2016 through 2019, Companies to Watch honorees generated $813 million in revenue and added 668 employees, reflecting a 103% increase in revenue and 113% increase in jobs for the four-year period. That translates into a 27% average annual revenue growth and 20% average annual growth in employees. 

Even through the pandemic, these Florida companies collectively projected continued growth in 2020, with a 15% revenue increase and 17% growth in employees compared to 2019. If their projections hold, these companies will have generated $1.14 billion in revenue and added 887 employees over the last five years – a 133% increase in revenue and 150% increase in jobs since 2016. 

Companies named to the list will be officially recognized at the 10th Annual GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Celebration on Feb. 18 at the Hammock Beach Resort and Spa in Palm Coast. The event will also be livestreamed. For more information, visit GrowFL.com/flctw20/about-flctw. 

FPRA, Priority Marketing collecting gifts for Children’s Advocacy Center 

Priority Marketing is partnering with the Florida Public Relations Association, Southwest Florida Chapter, to help collect children’s gifts through the “Merry Givemas” toy drive.  

Now through Dec. 11, Priority Marketing’s clients, vendors and partners, as well as community members, can drop off new, unwrapped toys and small-denomination gift cards between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. at Priority Marketing’s office, 12140 Carissa Commerce Court, Suite 201, in Fort Myers. 

FPRA launched “Merry Givemas” to honor Janet Wilson, a longtime member and PR professional who passed away in 2019. Janet was known for her infectious smile and caring spirit, and each holiday season would dedicate time to collect toys and gifts for children across Southwest Florida. 

Children’s Advocacy Center is a nonprofit that provides a coordinated response to child victims of abuse and neglect, and improves the lives of at-risk children and their families through prevention services. 

For more information or to view additional collection sites, please visit FPRA’s Merry Givemas page. 

Priority Marketing wins 4 Davey Awards from Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts 

The Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts has recognized Priority Marketing with four Davey Awards through an international competition that honors outstanding creative work from marketing companies around the world.  

The 16th Annual Davey Awards received nearly 2,000 entries from ad agencies, digital agencies, production firms, in-house creative professionals, graphic designers, design firms and public relations firms. Priority Marketing’s four winners include: 

• Gold Award (Corporate Identity Package Design): Cypress Lake Country Club 1959 pilsner craft beer can 
• Silver Award (Promotional Invitations/Cards): 2020 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest invitation 
• Silver Award (Design and Print Collateral Brochure): The Jewish Federation of Greater Naples brochure 
• Silver Award (Online Film and Video Public Service and Activism): SalusCare testimonial video 

Priority Marketing has won 24 Davey Awards since 2006, including eight awards over the past two years. 

“The AIVA recognizes the top creative professionals worldwide, so winning multiple awards in consecutive years demonstrates the incredible talent and consistency of our team,” said President and Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR. “The diversity of our Davey Award winners this year – a beer can design, festival invitation, organizational brochure and promotional video – are proof that we truly are a full-service agency capable of accomplishing our clients’ goals, whatever they might be.” 

Priority Marketing’s design team creates invitations, brochures, rack cards, product packaging, signs and displays, billboards, logos and vehicle wraps, as well as website designs and advertising. The company’s video production team now includes two in-house videographers, expanding its video services to include concepting, scriptwriting, video shooting, directing, editing and production, custom music creation, animation, motion graphics, drone work, voiceovers and more. 

“The 2020 Davey Awards featured an incredible pool of entries from the best small firms in the world,” AIVA Managing Director Eva McClosky said in announcing the awards. “Being honored with a Davey Award is truly a great accomplishment and is a testament to the award-winning work that you produce.” 

Priority Marketing “Rises to the Challenge” for United Way  

United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades and Okeechobee Counties has recognized Priority Marketing as a Pacesetter Company helping to launch the nonprofit’s 2020-21 fundraising campaign. 

Just hours after Priority Marketing held a campaign information session, 100% of staff confirmed their commitment to United Way’s annual campaign. Overall, the company’s employees pledged more than $10,000 in payroll deductions, including leadership giving of four Keel Club members and five Sextant Club members.  

“The theme of this year’s United Way kickoff celebration was ‘Rise to the Challenge,’ and that’s something our team has been doing all year for our clients. Now, through the United Way campaign, our tribe is showing support for the community at a time when the needs have increased, significantly,” said Teri Hansen, APR, president and creative director at Priority Marketing. “United Way is an incredible organization that unites agencies across the region and provides support that enables nonprofits to carry out their missions.” 

United Way partners with local agencies to build stronger communities by supporting the health, education and financial stability of everyone through a variety of human services programs. Priority Marketing counts nine United Way partner agencies among its clients, including Child Care of Southwest Florida, Community Cooperative, Dress for Success SW Florida, Guardian ad Litem Foundation, Hope Healthcare, Pace Center for Girls – Lee, Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center and Wellfit Girls. Another client, Guadalupe Center, is a partner agency with United Way of Collier and the Keys. 

United Way’s 2020-21 campaign goal is $10.8 million. Visit UnitedWayLee.org to make a contribution. 

Priority Marketing a finalist for SWFL Inc.’s Small Business of the Year 

SWFL Inc. named Priority Marketing a finalist for Small Business of the Year through its 2020 SWFL INCredible Awards. 

The Small Business of the Year Award recognizes local businesses that go above and beyond to give back to the community. In addition to its signature award, SWFL Inc. also recognizes community leaders with the Nonprofit of the Year Award, Innovation Award, Distinguished Volunteer Award, INCredible Award and SWFL Citizen of the Year Award.  

Teri Hansen established Priority Marketing in 1992. Today, it is the region’s largest full-service firm and provides marketing, advertising, public relations, social media and digital marketing solutions for a diverse array of businesses, nonprofits, government agencies and individuals throughout the U.S. 

In addition to its reputation as a firm that delivers results for clients, Priority Marketing also is known for its generosity. Over the past 28 years, the company has donated an estimated $2.6 million in professional in-kind services to community organizations. Team members also volunteer for numerous charitable causes and serve on boards and communities that guide local organizations. 

USF honors Priority Marketing, Teri Hansen with ‘Fast 56’ award

The University of South Florida Alumni Association has recognized Priority Marketing and its founder, Teri Hansen, as a 2020 USF Fast 56 Award winner. 

USF, which was founded in 1956 and has 360,000 alumni worldwide, created the Fast 56 awards program in 2013 to honor the top 56 fastest-growing businesses worldwide that are owned or operated by Bulls alumni, as well as their leaders who demonstrate outstanding civic support. 

Hansen, Priority Marketing’s president and creative director, graduated magna cum laude from USF in 1984 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and Management, as well as a minor in criminal justice. Hansen attended classes at USF’s former campus in Fort Myers when the university offered just three bachelor’s degree programs: education, criminal justice and business. 

Nine years after graduating from USF, Hansen founded Priority Marketing in Fort Myers. Today, the company has more than 40 full-time employees and is the region’s largest marketing firm with a growing client base of for-profit and nonprofit clients. 

USF recognized the 2020 Fast 56 honorees through a virtual awards ceremony held Sept. 11. Topping the Fast 56 list as the fastest-growing Bull-led business was Fresco Foods and Tracy Povolny, who is founder, a board member and vice president of marketing for the Tampa-based company. 

“It’s extremely gratifying to be included on such a prestigious list with fellow USF alumni who are visionaries leading their companies from coast to coast, and around the world,” said Hansen, a member of USF’s Alumni Association. 

USF is a preeminent state research university with nearly 50,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in more than 180 degree programs. USF is the fastest-rising university in America on U.S. News and World Report’s annual “Best Colleges” ranking system. It currently ranks No. 46 in the nation. 

In addition to a degree from USF, Hansen has earned professional Accreditation in Public Relations (APR). 

In recent weeks, Priority Marketing also has been honored as a finalist in GrowFL’s 2020 Florida Companies to Watch recognition program, as well as the Florida Public Relations Association’s annual Golden Image Awards competition, where Priority Marketing earned 13 awards. In August, PRNEWS also named Priority Marketing to its inaugural Agency Elite Top 100 list that spotlights the nation’s most innovative and strategic public relations firms of the year. 

GrowFL names Priority Marketing as finalist for 2020 ‘Florida Companies to Watch’

Priority Marketing has been named among Florida’s top-ranked businesses as a finalist in GrowFL’s 2020 Florida Companies to Watch recognition program.

Now in its 10^th year, Companies to Watch honors impressive second-stage companies that are developing valuable products and services, creating quality jobs, enriching communities and broadening new industries throughout Florida. GrowFL has recognized only 80 Florida-based businesses as finalists for the 2020 awards program, selected from more than 400 nominations statewide. Priority Marketing is one of just four Southwest Florida businesses to be named finalists.

“GrowFL received more than 400 nominations this year, and it’s gratifying to know that we’re not just regarded as a successful business in Southwest Florida, but across all of Florida,” said Teri Hansen, APR, president and creative director at Priority Marketing. “Our company has grown to over 40 employees that are working tirelessly to help our clients and partners achieve their marketing, public relations and advertising goals.”

“We applaud these first-round finalists who have proved themselves to be stand out companies in the state,” said GrowFL Founder Tom O’Neal. “They have and continue to demonstrate the resiliency and tenacity that comes along with being an entrepreneur. We know this year hasn’t been easy, so we’re excited to recognize our state’s admirable business owners and their teams. I have a feeling they’re just getting started.”

Together, the 80 finalists represent nearly 3,000 jobs and generate $670 million in annual revenue. On average, the companies anticipate growth of 13% in revenue and 23% in employment by the end of 2020.

Companies to Watch was developed by the Edward Lowe Foundation as a unique way to recognize and honor second-stage companies that demonstrate high performance in the marketplace with innovative strategies and processes. In addition to evaluating past growth and projected success, applicant companies are judged according to their special strengths and impact in their markets, communities and within the state – thus deeming them “worth watching.”

GrowFL will name its 2020 honorees on Nov. 12.

Celebrating 13 awards earned from FPRA’s statewide Golden Image Awards

Priority Marketing received 13 awards through the Florida Public Relations Association’s annual Golden Image Awards, a prestigious competition that recognizes the outstanding work of agencies and firms across the Sunshine State. 

“FPRA’s Golden Image Awards is a highly competitive awards competition, so being recognized with 13 awards is an impressive accomplishment for our team and the businesses and nonprofits we serve,” said Priority Marketing President and Creative Director Teri Hansen, APR. “The campaigns highlighted by FPRA are shining examples of the exemplary, impactful work that our team produces on a daily basis.” 

The Golden Image Awards were held virtually on Aug. 27. Priority Marketing’s 2020 Golden Image Award winners include: 

• Award of Distinction (Community Relations for The School District of Lee County): Development and execution of a bus stop safety communications program, including a back-to-school event that drew 1,000 attendees.  
• Award of Distinction  and Judges’ Award (Promotional/Marketing for Cypress Pharmacy): Creation of a comprehensive public relations campaign that increased awareness and sales of CBD products. 
• Award of Distinction and Judges’ Award (Integrated Marketing Campaign for Guadalupe Center): Development of multi-channel, integrated marketing campaign for “silent phase” of fundraising campaign. 
• Award of Distinction (Special Events for Hope Healthcare): Planning, creative design, public relations campaign and execution of “Shine,” an inaugural fundraising gala. 
• Award of Distinction (Other Campaign for Creighton Construction): Development and execution of fundraising campaign to help furnish a home for a local resident in need of assistance. 
• Golden Image Award (Brochure for Jewish Federation of Greater Naples): Conducted market research, developed key messaging and created a brochure targeting major donors for a building campaign. 
• Award of Distinction (Direct Mail Campaign for Guadalupe Center): Development of attention-grabbing, end-of-year direct mail appeal that exceeded fundraising goals. 
• Award of Distinction (Video – Internal for Priority Marketing): Launched content, formatting and design changes for monthly E-newsletter using data analysis to create a highly engaging, well-read newsletter. 
• Judges’ Award and Award of Distinction (Public Service Video for SalusCare): Creation of an emotional testimonial video that increased awareness and generated a record-setting amount of donations. 
• Award of Distinction (Institutional Video for Ding Darling Wildlife Society): Creation of a compelling fundraising video that helped raise money to purchase and restore environmentally sensitive land. 

Southwest Florida marketing firm listed among top agencies in the U.S.

Priority Marketing has been named to PRNEWS’ Agency Elite Top 100. The inaugural list spotlights the nation’s most innovative and strategic public relations firms of the year.

Among the top 100 agencies in the U.S., Priority Marketing was one of just eight agencies headquartered in Florida that were named to the list, and the only headquartered along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

“Priority Marketing strives to be a trusted source for innovative solutions that achieve outstanding results,” said Teri Hansen, APR, president and creative director. “To be named among the top 100 agencies in the country is an incredible recognition of our team and its efforts to support the long-term success of our clients and community.”

For inclusion in the Agency Elite Top 100 list, PRNEWS scored communications, marketing and digital agencies across more than a dozen criteria to highlight the standout agencies doing the most innovative work. The inaugural list featured a range of boutique firms, mid-sized shops and monolithic, global organizations.

Sarah Nadal joins team as communications manager  

Priority Marketing is pleased to announce that Sarah Nadal, an experienced public relations professional, has joined the firm as a communications manager. 

Sarah will provide collaborative leadership with clients, account managers and in-house creative partners to execute an array of marketing and public relations campaigns. She will help develop concepts and copy for paid advertising, print collateral, websites, social media and videos, focusing on a high standard of creativity, quality and accuracy. 

Prior to joining Priority Marketing, Sarah worked for an established retirement community in a variety of roles, including communications manager, public relations and associate content editor, public relations and events specialist, and events coordinator and marketing assistant. 

Sarah attended Florida Gulf Coast University. 

Catch our acting talents (and fresh haircuts!) on the small screen 

Priority Marketing’s turnkey video production services include concepting, scriptwriting, directing, editing, animation and more. We’ve also been known to step in front of the camera from time to time. 

When TwinCutZ, a locally owned business with five Southwest Florida shops, needed models and actors for a set of new commercials, our team gladly hopped into the barber chair for a fresh look. And they brought reinforcements! In the commercials, you’ll spot Director of Web Solutions Manny Gonzalez, Director of Digital Marketing Kevin Johnson and Social Media/Digital Video Producer Jonathan Price, as well as a few spouses, children and friends of Priority Marketing employees.

Teri Hansen teaches integrity on GiverTV 

This spring, Charity for Change launched GiverTV, a new interactive children’s video series that provides children with a strong foundation of social-emotional learning skills. Videos feature the program’s mascots, Giver and U2Can, teaching foundational skills like character education and service learning.

Episodes are filmed right here in the Priority Marketing TV studio. Our President and Creative Director, Teri Hansen, recently led a Community Corner lesson on integrity.

“Having integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching,” Teri said. “By showing integrity, we build trust and show that we respect each other.”

Priority Marketing earns 4 Telly Awards for excellence in video production

Priority Marketing earned four international Telly Awards for its impactful video storytelling that raised both awareness and support for its client partners.

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards is a premier global competition honoring excellence in local, regional and cable television commercials, as well as non-broadcast video and television programming.

The four award-winning videos earned by Priority Marketing in 2020 include:

“Video offers a unique storytelling platform that includes both broadcast and digital opportunities that have helped our clients achieve outstanding results,” said Teri Hansen, APR, president and creative director at Priority Marketing. “Video is the most powerful way to evoke emotion and capture an audience’s attention, and engaged viewers ultimately can become new customers, loyal donors and dedicated volunteers.”

Priority Marketing’s creative team of marketing professionals, which includes two in-house videographers, provides clients with concepting, scriptwriting, video shoot coordination, directing, editing and production, animation, motion graphics and more.

Each year, the Telly Awards attract more than 12,000 entries from all 50 states and across five continents. Winners represent some of the most respected advertising agencies, television stations, production companies and publishers around the world.

Priority Marketing adds second in-house videographer 

Priority Marketing has added Jason Andrews as the firm’s second in-house videographer to accommodate an increasing demand for video across all platforms, including television, social media, websites, campaign appeals and special events. 

Andrews is an experienced videographer, video editor, motion graphics designer and mix engineer who has filmed and edited commercials, packaged video for television news, created video content specifically for social media channels and developed audio tracks that have been featured in film trailers and video games. 

Andrews will work alongside Priority Marketing’s other videographer and the firm’s creative team of marketing professionals to provide clients with concepting, scriptwriting, video shoot coordination, directing, editing and production, animation, motion graphics and more. 

Priority Marketing offers ‘Power Packs’ as marketing solutions for SWFL nonprofits, small businesses

Priority Marketing is introducing economical marketing solutions called Power Packs designed specifically to reenergize and relaunch small businesses and organizations looking to refresh or restart marketing campaigns following COVID-19.

Three types of Power Packs are available and include social media, email marketing and public relations services to help meet established goals and objectives.

Additionally, Priority Marketing has launched three Start Up Packs for new businesses and those relaunching brands. Packages include foundational marketing services like logo and website development, brand identity sets, collateral, email templates, social media setup and more.

Priority Marketing also is offering complimentary consultations by telephone and video chat, as well as free online resources, to help local businesses, nonprofits and community partners rebound from the health and economic crisis.

For more information please call 239-267-2638 or email PowerUp@PriorityMarketing.com.

Scoring big wins with memorable, on-point marketing

Priority Marketing team members often share their expertise with community groups and professional organizations, serving as guest speakers, panelists and presenters. With more than 40 full-time professionals, Priority Marketing is the largest firm in Southwest Florida serving clients across for-profit, nonprofit and government sectors.

Our blog shares some of that knowledge, but our team happily shares wisdom with the media as well.

In February, President and Chief Creative Director Teri Hansen was featured in a Business Observer story examining the reasons why companies need to rebrand as their business evolves.

Teri outlines how Priority Marketing starts the rebranding process with target audience research, using that insight to understand perceptions and competitors before establishing key messaging, positioning and possibly developing a new logo and imagery.
Teri’s tip for brands to avoid going stale is to take a step back and review all forms of communication – the website, brochures, news releases and more – to gauge consistency across platforms.

READ THE ARTICLE: How to review your brand

Earlier in February, Assistant Creative Director and Senior Creative Copywriter Olivia Orth was a featured guest on FOX4 to discuss the companies that scored big with their Super Bowl commercials. Super Bowl Sunday isn’t just about football, as Olivia explained; it’s also about companies creating buzz for their brands through poignant marketing and advertising in front of a captivated national audience.

Olivia’s keys for a successful Super Bowl commercial: make it memorable and creative while sticking to key messaging that ties back to the product.

Builders Care names Priority Marketing as ‘Partner of the Year’

Lee BIA Builders Care, the charitable arm of the Lee County Building Industry Association, recently named Priority Marketing as its 2019 Partner of the Year.

Priority Marketing has provided public relations and marketing services to Builders Care for nearly a decade, helping the nonprofit organization raise awareness and financial support. Builders Care’s mission is to provide emergency construction services at no cost to needy and deserving elderly and/or disabled homeowners, and their families, who cannot obtain repairs through traditional means.

To date, Builders Care has put more than $4.75 million in construction services back into the community at no cost to homeowners in need.

Additional award recipients included Mike Nilles (Jimmy Rodgers Volunteer of the Year), Target Roofing & Sheet Metal and Wayne Wiles Floor Coverings (Contractor Partners of the Year), Ferguson Enterprises (Michael English Hearts and Hammers Award), LSI Companies (Builders Care Executive Award), Dan Beiter (President’s Award) and Lennar (President’s Special Recognition).

Alyssa Delora returns to Priority Marketing as an account manager

Alyssa Delora has rejoined Priority Marketing as an account manager to help clients achieve their goals by collaborating with the firm’s creative, media, public relations and digital teams. The firm’s account management team develops solutions for clients in the business, nonprofit and government sectors. Alyssa was a director of client services at Priority Marketing from 2014 to 2017.

Alyssa’s prior experience also includes roles as a marketing director, director of advertising and special events coordinator. Alyssa earned two postsecondary credentials from Hodges University, an Associate of Science degree in medical assisting and a Bachelor of Science degree in management.

Priority Marketing wins 4 international Davey Awards

Priority Marketing has earned four Davey Awards for its outstanding creative design work in developing brand identities for four clients across Southwest Florida.

Produced by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts, the Davey Awards is an international competition among advertising agencies, digital agencies, production firms, in-house creative professionals, graphic designers, design firms and public relations firms.

Priority Marketing won two gold awards and two silver awards, all in the Design/Print category for corporate identity and logos.

Gold Award winners: The Ingenuity Lab and Hoke Fishing Charters

Silver Award winners: 2019 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Festival (Making Waves) and Pine Manor Food Forest

Priority Marketing has won 20 international Davey Awards since 2006.

Priority Marketing adds graphic designer Sarah Wilke

Sarah Wilke has brought her artistic talents to our creative team as a graphic designer, creating innovative digital and print designs that bring clients’ visions to life and ultimately generate results. Priority Marketing’s creative team creates eye-catching, visually compelling brand identities, print and digital designs, logos, advertising, collateral materials, displays, product packaging and more.

Sarah is a seasoned designer with extensive knowledge in the printing industry and web design. Prior roles include digital art specialist and graphic designer at an advertising firm, marketing company and e-commerce site. She is a graduate of the International Academy of Design & Technology.

Priority Marketing named 2019 Business Ethics Award recipient by Uncommon Friends Foundation

Priority Marketing was named the 2019 Business Ethics Award recipient during the Uncommon Evening gala of the Uncommon Friends Foundation. The event was held Nov. 14 at the Burroughs Home & Gardens in Fort Myers. Finalists included Allyn International and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank.

Priority Marketing was established in 1992 by Teri Hansen. It is a full-service marketing, advertising, public relations, social media and digital marketing firm with a reputation for achieving results. Today, Priority Marketing serves a diverse array of businesses, nonprofits, government agencies and individuals throughout the U.S. with a comprehensive array of marketing services.

The Business Ethics Award is presented annually to a business that exemplifies a high standard of ethical leadership in today’s business. The finalists and CEOs of Lee and Collier businesses participated in a Business Ethics Roundtable on Oct. 30 at Florida Gulf Coast University.

During the Uncommon Evening, Alexander (Alex) Bremner was presented with the Honorary Life Membership/Lifetime Achievement Award, Julia Parada was recognized as the Champion Teacher and 26 students received scholarships.

The presenting sponsor of this year’s event was Storm Smart. Other major sponsors included Burroughs Home Room, Henderson Franklin, Allyn International, FGCU, Waste Pro, Edison National Bank, LCEC and McGriffin. Table sponsors included Alex and Eunice Bremner, City of Fort Myers, CRS Technology, Eric Dent, Gary Eskin, Florida Weekly, News-Press, Northern Trust, Priority Marketing, Kevin Ruane, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank and Wayne Smith. Angel sponsors of scholarships included CDM Smith Consulting, Conditioned Air, Melisa Giovanelli, Lee County Sheriff’s Office and Catherine Morgan.

Priority Marketing earns third consecutive global Benny Award

Priority Marketing has been awarded a prestigious international “Benny Award” for its striking design work that promoted the 2019 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest.

Printing Industries of America recognized Priority Marketing as a “Best of Category” winner through its Premier Print Awards, the graphic arts industry’s largest and most prestigious international printing and design competition. The Benny Award is its top honor and celebrates exceptional graphic artistry and superior print quality.

Priority Marketing is the only firm in Southwest Florida to win a Benny Award in 2019, and one of just 110 worldwide.

For the Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest, Priority Marketing created an elegantly designed auction catalog book and a custom event invitation booklet that included RSVP cards and mailing envelopes. Silver metallic highlights accented custom die-cut materials that featured warm blue colors to reflect the Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest’s oceanic theme of “Making Waves.” Priority Marketing developed the campaign’s concept, imagery and specialized printing concepts, while Palm Printing provided all printed campaign materials and services.

Priority Marketing also earned a Certificate of Merit in the competition’s Special Innovations category for its eye-catching video brochure to announce the capital campaign for another Naples-based nonprofit.

Priority Marketing returns as pacesetter for United Way campaign

United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades and Okeechobee Counties set a fundraising goal of $10,783,563, and Priority Marketing is proud to help launch the campaign through employee pledges. Pacesetter companies help United Way jumpstart its annual fundraising campaign, which provides resources that supports 82 charitable organizations across the four-county region.

To contribute, please visit UnitedWayLee.org.

Dana Vargas joins the tribe

Priority Marketing continues adding staff members to achieve outstanding results for our clients. In October, we welcomed a new member to the team: