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For the Love of Travel: Why Imagine Leaned Into Tourism

In 2017, something shifted for us.

After years of branding work across sectors—from nonprofits to local businesses—we started taking on more tourism-related projects. At first, it was happenstance. But soon, we realized something bigger was happening: we loved this work. And we were really good at it.

Helping destinations tell their stories, highlight their hidden gems, and bring people together felt like more than marketing, it felt like mission work. It aligned with what we’ve always valued most: building community.

Still Fighting Ugly. Now Also Fueling Travel.

Yes, we still fight ugly. That’s how Imagine began—and design, messaging, and creative direction are still core to what we do. But along the way, our passion evolved. Today, we’re just as energized by tourism, hospitality, and economic development work as we are by beautiful design. Because we know that when done right, marketing a place can change lives. It can create jobs, boost local pride, and invite new people to experience something authentic and unforgettable.

A New Identity with Deep Roots

In 2022, we launched our For the Love of Travel logo—a visual declaration of the joy we find in tourism marketing. But we didn’t leave our past behind. The lion, our longtime symbol, still stands with us. It’s a quiet reminder of our strength, creativity, and purpose. We moved it from the center stage to the background—always present, always watching, always rooted.

We’re honoring where we’ve been while embracing where we’re going.

For the Love of Travel—and Community

What we’ve discovered is that tourism is more than visitors. It’s about connection. When someone falls in love with a place, they invest in it—through time, spending, advocacy, and sometimes even relocation. That’s the kind of transformation we’re proud to be part of.

Whether we’re launching a destination brand, supporting a regional tourism alliance, or helping a small town reimagine its welcome, we bring strategy, soul, and a whole lot of heart.

Are you a destination looking to stand out?
Let’s create something powerful—for the love of travel and the future of your community.
Talk to Imagine.

Rebecca Barnes

Rebecca aka DMO's Best Friend is the CEO of Imagine. With more than three decades of experience launching and operating award-winning companies, she gained invaluable insights into the intricate challenges that businesses encounter. Harnessing this expertise, she has built successful tourism marketing programs, initiatives, and campaigns for counties, cities, towns, venues, hotels, and captivating destinations. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her Grands, reading, traveling, and sleeping.

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