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Q&A with Michael Vescio – Director of Sales / Discover DeKalb Convention and Visitors Bureau
Here at RWN, we love to celebrate the advocates and allies who support the tenets of equality! Our voices are stronger when we stand together!
Congratulations to our friends from Discover DeKalb Convention and Visitors Bureau, on their recent award from the OUT Georgia Business Alliance. Their organization, Discover DeKalb, must be so proud to have received the prestigious Corporate Ally of the Year Award!
As the intro on their website states:
"Welcome to DeKalb, Georgia! In DeKalb everyone is welcome, so bring your authentic self — whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, craft-beer enthusiast, history buff, on the hunt for your next favorite meal, or looking for family-friendly attractions — DeKalb has something for everyone in the car (including the dog)."
Many of our readers may not realize just how much Convention & Visitors Bureaus, Tourist Organizations and even Neighborhood Groups do to support their LGBTQ+ citizens. These organizations provide residents and out-of-towners with valuable info about local events, businesses and attractions. Their staff knows firsthand the details about local cuisine, new start-ups, neighborhood identities, current happenings and much more, so they can offer helpful insights to both locals and tourists. Discounts and many other resources can be found through Convention & Visitors Bureaus; sometimes even hands-on services such as basic wedding planning guidance and trip itinerary assistance!
Hi Mike! Congratulations again, and THANKS to you and Discover DeKalb for all you do in supporting the local LGBTQ+ community there in the suburbs of Atlanta! Can you tell us some of the services Discover DeKalb offers?
MV: Please say “I Do” in DeKalb - yes, we offer free wedding services!
Itinerary /Packaging Services
FREE On-Site Parking at our 70 Hotels
Competitive Hotel Bids – in the Cities We Represent
Chamblee, Tucker, Stonecrest, Stone Mountain and DeKalb County
Restaurants/Attractions and Transportation Discounts
FAM Opportunities – Visit Our Area – See What We Have To Offer
Can you share with us some of the ways that Discover DeKalb specifically supports the LGBTQ+ community?
MV: Yearly Sponsorship with the Out GA Business Alliance
Sponsor regular monthly events – 4th Friday’s with the LGBTQ+ Chamber
Provide quarterly educational meetings to our Stakeholders, Board of Directors and Partners in the LGBTQ+ market
We participate yearly in RainbowWeddingNetwork's Atlanta LGBTQ+ Wedding Expo
Run print ads in the Out On Film Program
Run ad yearly in Pridely
An ad with GA Voice yearly in the Gay Destination Atlanta Guide
Also participate yearly with Black Gay Pride, Atlanta Pride and AIDS Atlanta
We developed an LGBTQ+ Destination Guide that won an award with the Southeast Tourism Society – Best Niche Marketing Award / This piece is displayed at the 9 GA state visitor centers – they have over 13 million visitors yearly
We have a staff member dedicated to this market – DeKalb is very diverse – we welcome everyone!
What are some of the highlights of DeKalb County GA that would most appeal to LGBTQ+ tourists or those considering a relocation to the area?
MV: Lips – Drag Dining - Doraville
Close to Piedmont Park – host of Atlanta Pride Festival
Mary’s – Karaoke Bar
Charis Books
As we all look ahead to a new Presidential administration, there is some uncertainty with regard to equal access and fair treatment for members of the LGBTQ+ community. How can Convention & Visitors Bureaus, Tourist Organizations and even Neighborhood Groups find ways to support their LGBTQ+ citizens?
MV: We just need to continue to support these events thru Sponsorships. Don’t just talk the talk – we must walk the walk. It is more important now than ever.
Are there broader ways that Discover DeKalb helps individuals get involved with what you're organization is doing, or helps individuals interconnect above and beyond your own specific services?
MV: Nothing any broader – just be involved locally, participate and speak up.
Why do you feel that it's important for organizations like yours to actively support, specifically, the LGBTQ+ niche?
MV: It is crucial for all Tourism agencies to support all markets – thru their money and involvement.
We invite all our readers to check out not only Discover DeKalb, but also their own local Convention & Visitors Bureaus, Tourist Organizations and Neighborhood Groups... You may be surprised at just how many resources are available to you, from saving money through discounts, to basic wedding and honeymoon planning services, helpful info about stay-cations, weekend adventuring and much more! As you travel to other cities, check out their Convention & Visitors Bureaus also: many have services dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community!
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Michael Vescio – Director of Sales
Discover DeKalb Convention and Visitors Bureau
Direct: 770-492-5012
https://discoverdekalb.com/
