blogging

Gratitude Marketing: How to Strengthen Your Brand’s Loyalty This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving provides the perfect opportunity for businesses to connect with their audiences on a deeper level! “Gratitude marketing” uses specific marketing strategies to foster loyalty, humanize brand ideas, and build meaningful relationships with customers over the holiday season. Gratitude marketing also focuses on showing appreciation to customers, partners, and the community. This approach not only strengthens customer connections but also boosts brand loyalty, enhances brand image, and drives engagement! Thanksgiving is the perfect time to implement gratitude marketing, as it's the season centered around thankfulness, and consumers are more receptive to heartfelt messages. In this blog, we will explore how brands can use the Thanksgiving holiday to create authentic, gratitude-centered campaigns that leave a lasting impression and build life-long customers.

 

How to Implement Gratitude Marketing

1. Personalized Thank You Messages

A simple thank-you can go a long way. You can start by sending personalized emails or direct messages to your loyal customers to let them know how much you care.

●      Example: Handwritten thank-you cards or customized video messages can create a lasting impact and increase customer brand loyalty.

2. Highlight Customer Stories

Celebrate your customers by sharing their stories on your social media platforms.

●      Example: Feature a “Customer Spotlight” series, where you share how your product or service has positively impacted their lives.

3. Host a “Gratitude Giveaway”

Engage your audience with a Thanksgiving-themed giveaway. This is where you could encourage participants to share what they’re thankful for, using a branded hashtag.

●      Example: “Share Your Thanks” campaign by a local coffee shop that gave free drinks to participants with the most heartfelt posts.

4. Collaborate with Charities

Partner with a nonprofit organization to give back to the community, and share your efforts on social media to inspire others to contribute.

●      Example: Many brands, like Patagonia, run donation-matching campaigns during the holiday season, inspiring goodwill.

5. Create Heartfelt Content

Use videos, blogs, or social media posts to express gratitude to your audience. Authenticity is key, so let your tone and content reflect genuine appreciation.

●      Example: A short Thanksgiving video featuring your team expressing thanks to customers, coupled with behind-the-scenes footage.

 

Tips for Authentic Gratitude Marketing

●      Be Genuine: You should try to avoid generic messages; now is the time to personalize your content to reflect your brand’s personality!

●      Engage Directly: Utilize social media polls, Q&A sessions, or live streams to interact with your audience and get to know your customers a little better.

●      Follow Through: Gratitude marketing shouldn’t stop after Thanksgiving; incorporate customer and community appreciation into your year-round strategy!

 

Gratitude marketing isn’t just about saying “thank you”; it’s about making your customers feel valued and appreciated. By leveraging the Thanksgiving season to express your authentic gratitude, you can strengthen your brand’s emotional connections, boost loyalty, and set yourself apart from competitors.

Are you ready to craft your gratitude marketing strategy? Or do you need help with your Thanksgiving campaigns? If so, contact Newton Peach Marketing for creative, gratitude-centered strategies that will elevate your brand this season and the rest of the holidays to come!

How A Single Viral Post Can Transform Your Company

Everybody has heard the term “going viral,” but not many people understand the impact that phenomenon can have on a company. The word “viral” is defined as “the rapid circulation of a post or video across multiple social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, etc.” As the modern world becomes increasingly interconnected through the internet, the chances of an individual or company going viral have skyrocketed. In this blog, we’ll discuss how a single viral post can revolutionize your company and what you can do to harness its power, as well as how we can help you achieve this goal.  

Instant Visibility and Brand Awareness

One of the most immediate benefits of a viral post is the surge in visibility. When content goes viral, it’s shared widely across platforms, reaching audiences far beyond your usual followers. This increased exposure can rapidly enhance brand awareness. For example, a viral post featuring a creative marketing campaign or a unique product showcase can introduce your brand to thousands, if not millions, of new potential customers. Many companies have started to utilize trending dances, sounds, and phrases to catch online attention and profit off their views.

What We Can Do: We can create content that resonates with your target audience. As a social media marketing team, we research trending topics and understand what type of content your audience engages with the most; We then tailor your posts to align with these insights for a better chance of going viral. 

Enhanced Engagement and Customer Loyalty

A viral post often leads to heightened engagement. This includes not only likes, shares, and comments but also a boost in interactions with your brand. When people engage with your post, they are more likely to explore your profile and become familiar with your other content and offerings. Additionally, viral content can foster a sense of community and connection with your audience. When people see your brand as part of a trend or cultural moment, they are more likely to feel an emotional connection, which can translate into increased customer loyalty.

What We Can Do: We follow up with your posted content by engaging with your audience. We respond to comments, answer questions, and show appreciation for your customers’ support across all social media platforms. This helps build stronger relationships, encourages continued engagement, and develops customer trust.

Boosted Traffic and Sales

Take advantage of your viral post to drive substantial traffic to your website or online store. As your content gains traction, people will click through to learn more about your brand, products, or services. This influx of traffic can lead to increased sales and conversions, especially if your post includes a call-to-action or directs viewers to a promotional offer.

What We Can Do: We ensure that your viral content links back to a well-optimized landing page or product page (such as your social media platform or business website). We make it easy for new visitors to navigate your site and make a purchase or sign up for your services.

Long-Term Brand Impact

The impact of your viral post can extend far beyond the immediate buzz! It can contribute to long-term brand growth and positioning. A successful viral campaign can establish your brand as a trendsetter or thought leader in your industry, creating a lasting impression that influences future marketing strategies.

What We Can Do: We analyze the factors that contributed to the virality of your post and use these insights to inform future campaigns and develop a strategy that builds on your newfound momentum.

While a single viral post can provide a substantial boost, consistent, high-quality content, and a well-rounded social media strategy are essential for sustained success. This is where the power of hiring a professional social media marketer comes in! At Newton Peach Marketing, we are dedicated to enhancing your brand image and giving you the tools to reach large audiences across multiple social media platforms. We create individualized content that extends far beyond generic posts; we want to develop a partnership with you and create a personal brand image that your customers want to be a part of.

Unlocking the Power of Search Engine Optimization: A Digital Marketing Guide

In the vast landscape of digital marketing, search engine optimization (SEO) stands as a beacon of opportunity for businesses looking to expand their online presence and attract more customers. SEO is defined as “the optimization of social media pages, business websites, and other platforms to increase business visibility and rankings on search engine results.” SEO is crucial to your entire online presence as a business.

The goal of SEO is to drive organic (non-paid or incentivized) traffic to a website by increasing its relevance and authority based on search queries entered by users. SEO encompasses a variety of strategies and techniques, including keyword research, on-page optimization, off-page optimization (such as link building), technical optimization, and content creation, all aimed at improving a website's position in search engine rankings for specific keywords or topics. It is a critical component of digital marketing and plays a significant role in enhancing online presence, attracting potential customers, and ultimately driving business growth. At Newton Peach Marketing, we are dedicated to increasing the visibility of your business using search engine optimization strategies such as:

Creating Quality Content: We create valuable, informative content that addresses the needs and interests of your target audience. Blog posts, articles, guides, and videos not only engage visitors but also encourage them to spend more time on your site—a positive signal for search engines.

Google Optimization: We optimize your Google page, meta descriptions, titles, and headers with chosen keywords. We ensure your site is user-friendly, mobile-responsive, and loads quickly—factors that search engines consider when ranking pages.

Keyword Usage: We start by identifying relevant keywords and phrases that your target audience is likely to search for. We discover high-volume keywords with manageable competition levels that we can use for your social media platforms, enhancing your target outreach.

Cross-Posting to Multiple Platforms: By sharing the content we create for your business on multiple platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, Google, and LinkedIn, it creates more opportunities for engagement, shares, and backlinks. Each social media platform acts as a potential source of traffic, directing users back to your website or content hub.

Monitoring and Adapting: We regularly monitor your website and social media performance using tools like Google Analytics and Meta Business Suite. We make sure to take note on which content is reaching the most individuals, and we tailor

If you are looking to increase your business visibility, direct targeted traffic to your platforms, and build credibility and trust within the Polk County community, look no further than Newton Peach Marketing. We are dedicated to helping a community of businesses achieve success through search engine optimization and are reading to start with you on this journey to grow and expand your business!

Inside My Week as a Social Media Marketer and Business Owner

As a wife, mother to three adult children, and business owner, my week can look pretty hectic! In this blog post, I wanted to highlight some things that I do in a week to keep my business on track and my clients satisfied with their content.

1)    Starbucks Strategy Runs

When I want a change of scenery from my home office, I bring my laptop to Starbucks and sip on my favorite Pink Drink while I work. During this time, I plan a preliminary weekly overview of what I need to accomplish and create my daily content list for clients. I also answer any emails, calls, or texts that I have received and and will sometimes meet here with a client in-person or virtually to strategize their business needs.

2)    BNI (Business Network International) Weekly Meeting

Every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m., I join a group of thirty to forty local business owners to discuss business opportunities, referrals, and networking events that enhance my outreach and build my communication skills. Each BNI chapter uses a referral-based program to help grow the business of all active members. Guest presentations also give us the advantage of learning new ways on how we can help other businesses in our chapter grow and succeed.

3)    Brew’N Biz Monthly Meeting

I started this monthly networking meeting to connect and meet with local businesses; similar to BNI, this meeting gives community businesses referral opportunities to help grow local clientele. However, this monthly meeting is open to any business owner and no fee or membership is required to join. We rotate between breakfast meetings and happy hour network events to encourage networking and socializing!

4)    On-Site Client Meetings

Throughout the week, I will visit local clients at their business office to discuss the performance of their Facebook, Instagram, Google, and other social media platforms. These visits give me the opportunity to get to know each client personally and learn what media avenues they want to pursue to grow their business. I also discuss how their platforms are being fully optimized to reach their target audience and take notes on their social media goals for the month.

5)    Home Office Work

Lastly, I spend the majority of my time in my home office working on a variety of different tasks. These tasks include content creation, increasing the SEO (Search Engine Optimization) of my clients, managing different social media accounts, emailing newsletters, blogging, advertising, responding to Google reviews, and organizing trade shows and community events. My home office acts as a base for my business that offers me a cost-effective and efficient space to work as the head of Newton Peach Marketing.

            My job allows me the ultimate freedom and flexibility to work from anywhere and with anyone. The meetings and errands listed above are just some tasks that show up in my weekly schedule that help my business stay on track and successful. As long as I have my phone and computer, I have the ability to stay connected with my clients no matter where I am! Newton Peach Marketing has given me the chance to support my family, clients, and overall community in Central Florida.

 

Father's Day is around the corner, and along with it comes Men's Health Awareness Month. June 12th-18this when we recognize the importance of men's health and wellness, and there is no better time to encourage Dad to take care of himself! Fathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, sons...men are important parts of our lives, and making sure they are at their best matters to us. 

So, how can you encourage the guys in your life to put themselves first this June? We have some great gift ideas that make a perfect Father's Day surprise and encourage him to put his health at the top of the priority list. 

We're sure he would love: 

  • New sneakers! Dads love a good pair of running shoes, and as much as he might be attached to his old, worn out favorites, it's probably time for something new. Running shoes, especially if worn regularly for exercise, tend to lose their support by (approximately) 6 months. Buying him a new pair is a great way to encourage him to keep up with his routine exercise, or prompt him to start! Bonus if you make it a point to exercise with him as a way to spend quality time together! 

  • A modern water bottle. Consuming enough water each day is a challenge for many of us. If the man in your life is struggling to get down his ounces, try a water bottle he'll love so much that he WANTS to drink out of it constantly. Whether he's more of an outdoorsy, adventure-seeking guy, or prefers to be at the coffee shop or in his office, there are plenty of options that keep water cold, refreshing, and easy-to-drink. 

  • A membership to a local gym or fitness center. Not everyone enjoys hitting the streets at home in Florida's heat for a morning run, or burning calories by exercising in their own living room. A gym membership offers the opportunity to exercise in ways that are fun, engaging, and social. Lifting machines, equipment for cardiovascular health, fitness classes, and even swimming are available for men (and women!) who want to better themselves physically and have fun while doing it. 

  • Workout wear. It's easy to feel self-conscious if you're heading out for some exercise wearing stained t-shirts and worn out shorts. New gear makes you feel confident when you step out! What's more, modern workout wear has benefits like moisture-wicking fabric, extra stretch, and functional pockets to make working out easier...and more stylish...than ever before! 

We're wishing dads everywhere the BEST Father's Day. We urge you to talk with the men in your life about staying healthy and taking care of themselves so they can take care of the ones they love. In addition to exercise and wellness practices, keeping up with annual visits for men's health are important for screening and catching any concerns. This June, celebrate Dad and his health! 

LOVE Your Community This Valentine's Day!

February is the "month of love" and Valentine's Day is coming up fast! Everyone is focused on shopping for their sweetheart, parents are coming up with fun Valentine ideas for their kids, and teachers are decking out their classrooms with hearts and fun projects to celebrate the season. In all these festivities, what if you could also show your community some love?? Your local businesses feed into your community each day, providing products, services, and experiences that set apart your town and make it special. Winter Haven, Lakeland, Bartow, Lake Wales, Auburndale, and the surrounding areas are home to some of the best shopping and dining options in Central Florida, but these hidden gems can often go unnoticed. Unless, that is, people like YOU choose to make them part of your celebrations. 

This Valentine's Day, show your community businesses some love by...

Shopping Local. 

This one is easy! From cakes, cookies, and chocolates, to the perfect piece of jewelry for your sweetheart, local stores have the most unique gifts, and often depend on other nearby crafters and producers for their inventory. No big box brands here! Your gifts will be special, because they show you cared enough to take time to shop in person, and will have even more meaning because they're a piece of home!

Making them part of your big day. 

It's easy to take advantage of chain restaurants and their big Valentine advertisements for cheaper "dinners for two" on Valentine's day. What if we told you though, that local restaurants often have deals just as good, and with GREAT food! There are so many great restaurants to suit every taste and style here in Polk County. Make it a family affair or a romantic night out!

Sharing the love!

This is one time we encourage you to talk about what you're buying, where you're taking your Valentine, and just how amazing your holiday was! While we're not encouraging you to brag, we are encouraging you to share your experiences with these local businesses. This is free advertisement for them, and helps them get exposure and clout in our cities and towns. Leave them a review, talk about their products or services, tag them on social media. Get their name out there and show them some love!

We hope your Valentine's Day is amazing, and we look forward to seeing all the ways you show our local businesses some love, not just during February but throughout the year ahead. Newton Peach Marketing is proud to be a Winter Haven business, and it’s a privilege to work with so many other small businesses in our area. Helping you build your brand, grow your business, and thrive through professional connections with others is our top priority.

Happy Valentine’s Day from Newton Peach Marketing!

Kids in the Kitchen: Holiday Baking is Healthy for Your Family!

The holidays are here, and chances are, you've seen the stores putting out all the baking needs. Festive sprinkles, colored frostings, chocolate chips, and candies galore adorn the entryway displays, and people are stocking up for Christmas baking.

We have a question for you though; How often, when pulling out those ingredients each year, have you heard the words "Can I help?" asked excitedly by your children? It's no secret that the kitchen tends to draw little ones (and even older ones!) in, but it's also well-known that baking with kids can be messy and take a good deal longer than it would if you were just left to your own devices. After all...isn't it quieter and cleaner to work on your own while the kids watch a favorite Christmas movie?

Maybe. Well...probably.

However, this year, we encourage you to bring your kids into the kitchen! Why? Well, here are some reasons experts say baking together can be beneficial for you and your kids this holiday season (even if the ingredients aren't necessarily on the healthy side)...

Family Bonding. Cooking and baking together gives you a common goal to work toward, and then everyone can enjoy taking pride in the results! Instead of everyone being engrossed in phones, tablets, video games, or the television, you're all engaged together. Some great conversations can take place around the kitchen island!

Hands-On Learning. Cooking offers practical application of math skills through measuring, weighing, following directions (recipe reading) and even reading temperatures! It's a great way for young students to continue what they've learned in the classroom over holiday breaks. For older kids, it helps give hands-on practice with life skills. You won't always be there with them to make the Christmas cookies or Grandma's famous cake!

Passing down traditions. Speaking of Grandma's famous cake, many families have recipes that have been made during certain holidays for generations. Letting your children participate in creating these recipes, and allowing them to see slips of paper in loved ones' handwriting or recipes clipped from old magazines, , you are passing down a love of, and appreciation for, family history without even realizing it. Tradition is often passed through the family line on a plate!

Time to talk. How often are your children attempting to talk to you, or you to them, with a phone, work project, or household task taking part of your attention? Being in the kitchen offers an opportunity to shut out the world around you and just focus on spending time around the mixing bowl with your family.

Share the gift of giving! Baked goods are a great way to show someone you care! Teach your children about the joy that can come from working hard to make something for someone else. It's a wonderful way to incorporate a lesson in what Christmas is supposed to be about.

We hope this year you'll consider making family time in the kitchen a new tradition of your own if it isn't already. Don't consider yourself a "chef extraordinaire"? Don't worry! Your kids won't care if it's a from-scratch recipe, or a box of cookie mix and some pre-made frosting. The memories made together go FAR beyond the results that come out of the oven. While you’re busy making memories with the ones you love, we’ll be busy continuing to grow your business behind the scenes. Social media never sleeps, and making sure you are represented well online is a 24-hour job. Let us take the work of branding yourself off your plate! Call Newton Peach Marketing and let us help your business reach its full potential in 2023!

Tips and Tricks to Handle Burnout This Summer

Summer is here! That means summer activities and talk of vacations are here as well. During this time of year, it is common for many to experience burnout and lack of focus. At Newton Peach Marketing, we know how important it is to stay on top of your business duties while maintaining your mental health. That is why we want to share with you some tips on how to beat burnout this summer.

1.) Make sure you are taking enough breaks

One great way to avoid job burnout is to ensure you are taking enough breaks throughout your workday. Fellow workaholics can agree that it is easy to get lost in a task in the workday and forget to take breaks, but breaks are important because it gives your body and mind time to refresh and focus on something that is not work-related. Setting aside daily breaks will help relieve workplace stress as well.

2.) Set aside time for exercise

If you feel yourself experiencing burnout setting aside time in your daily routine for exercise, even just a 15-minute walk, will work wonders. Research shows exercise provides recovery for your cognitive processes and nervous system so it can function more effectively. Giving yourself a set time for exercise each day will give you a chance to reflect on your day and unwind while also making you feel accomplished for doing something good for your body and health.

3.) Prioritize healthy diets to support a healthy mood and energy level.

Believe it or not, what we are putting into our bodies daily has a big effect on our moods and energy levels. Try minimizing the number of refined sugars and processed foods you are eating daily as they disrupt your body's hormone balance and lead to a mid-day crash in energy and mood. Try replacing these refined sugars and processed food with whole food with lots of vitamins and nutritional value that will keep your body fueled through the workday.

We hope you enjoyed reading about these tips to beat job burnout this summer. At Newton Peach Marketing we know it can sometimes be harder to focus on work during the summer season, however, these tips will fuel your body and mind keeping you focused on what needs to be done in the workplace. If you find yourself spread too thin running your business contact our team at Newton Peach Marketing and we would love to help you out by tackling all your digital marketing needs!

Mom-Approved Ideas for Celebrating Mother's Day

  • Mother's Day is just a few days away! Are you ready? While flowers, gifts, and breakfast in bed, what if there was a way to celebrate Mom all year long? Newton Peach Marketing supports mothers and truly believes they are superheros for what they take on each day. Making mom feel special for a day is fun for celebrating, but finding ways to surprise her with helping hands and items taken off her to-do list is the ultimate love letter. After all, have you ever seen how LONG it is?? We have some tips to get you started, but be sure to brainstorm ideas for your own wife, mom, grandmother, or other important lady in your life. She's sure to appreciate it!

    Some simple ways to support Mom and show her how much you love her every day include:

  • Take over dish duty. If mom usually ends up in front of the sink or dishwasher each night, make sure you're there before she is! Taking this simple chore off her list gives her a few extra minutes in her evening. Maybe she'll finally have time to pick up that book she's been putting off, or enjoying 5 more minutes of quiet on the back patio before dark.

  • Clean her car. A clean care takes time and energy, and those are two things Mom usually doesn't have at the end of the day. Give her car a glow up, with an interior detail, and a good wash and wax. You can pay a professional and surprise her, or grab your rags, the hose, and the vacuum and do it yourself.

  • Plan a meal (or more) each week. Taking just one night off Mom's plate each week is a great way to show your love. Planning, shopping for, and preparing dinner on a busy weeknight can relieve stress, or give her a relaxing weekend and take over dinner on Saturday or Sunday night. She's sure to appreciate a tasty meal that she didn't have to make.

    We hope this helps you get a head start on your own list for Mom this coming year. While you're busy taking care of mom's to-do list, we're busy taking care of YOURS as a business owner. Newton Peach Marketing handles all of your online marketing needs, with a special focus on social media and content creation. We make sure your potential clients and customers see all the best parts of your business and your brand, and you see the increase in profits because of that exposure. Let us help you grow your business, build your brand, and find bigger success in the year ahead!


Happy Mother's Day to moms everywhere!

NPM: Trying to Be The da Vinci of Your Social Media Needs

The Italian genius Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) had an extraordinary mind that canvassed a multitude of disciplines. Walter Isaacson, in his New York Times best seller about his life, wrote about his vast accomplishments in mathematics, art, engineering, anatomy, and zoology (to name a few). One thing that made da Vinci such a great artesian was his attention to detail. It is this fact about da Vinci that we at NPM find commonality.

One great example of da Vinci’s attention to detail was found in his painting “Virgin of the Rocks”  (pictured above). Leonardo chose to use volcanic rock and sandstone which he was familiar with because of his studies of geology. While his artist rendition of these formations are impressive, what demonstrates his attention to detail is that he paints climate and geologically appropriate plants in his painting. As Isaacson wrote, “The plants in the picture are located, as they would be in nature, only in the sandstone regions that have weathered sufficiently to permit roots to take hold, both at the top and the floor of the grotto, but not in the hard igneous rocks. The species chosen are botanically and seasonally correct: he depicted only those that would be found in a moist grotto at the same time of year.” Leonardo’s attention to detail is as impressive today as it was 500 years ago.

The attention to detail is what separated Leonardo from other artists and this is what separates NPM from other marketing companies. Unlike big box marketing firms that are in other states or even other countries that use algorithms to generate generic social media posts, NPM is dedicated to knowing the particular details of your business to create unique social media posts that demonstrates knowledge of your company and your clientele. Whether it is a staffing change, the birthday of your owner, a change in location, or a new product that you want to unveil, NPM attention to detail helps get the word out to strengthen your relationship with your community. NPM never generates generic material for your company but pays attention to the small details which helps you stand out from your competitors. Computer algorithms generate generic posts; NPM attention to detail creates localized, community-oriented, attention to detail posts for your business. Let us be your da Vinci for all your social media marketing needs. 

Fall In Love With Your Business Again

Happy Valentine's Day! Valentine's Day is always one of our favorite holidays because we love seeing the public display of flowers, hearts, chocolate, and sweet cards. Most importantly, Valentine's Day is a time where we can show appreciation to family, grandparents, partners, and spouses. However, Valentine's Day can also be a way for people to not show love to just others, but also to other businesses! Giving time and money to other businesses is a way to support the people, and it would be much appreciated on Valentines Day. Though it is important to celebrate this day with other people, it can also be a reminder to celebrate this holiday with your business; fall in love with your business again! Too many times businesses open, excited and exhilarated, but then the honey-moon phase is over, and you’re reminded that running a business is not all that fun. Being a small-business owner is not all Hershey kisses and roses (our personal favorites). Read below to see how you can fall in love with your business again!

  • Join networking groups: Joining networking groups is a great way to find motivation and business! Find a local business network near you that has a high-energy environment, and you’ll be guaranteed to pick up on the contagious energy. Most networking groups meet once a week, and this is a great opportunity to meet new business partners or get referrals. Socializing with business owners like yourself is a great way to revive the love and energy you once had for your business!

  • Plan ahead for the future: Not only do you need to work for your business, you need plan ahead! It may seem banal and uninspiring, but planning ahead can give you a vision for the future, and motivation to improve the current state your business is in. Planning ahead allows you to see the bigger picture, a create a map to guide you to the place you want your business to be. Each week, set some time to fully focus on the future of your business, and the steps you can take to get there. 

  • Work smarter, not harder: Taking time to drudge through the parts of the business that aren’t fun can dreary and dull. Whenever you do the paperwork, the taxes, the referrals, and and more, make sure to work productively and to not waste time. Examine the way you manage your work, employees, meetings, services and see if you are productively scheduling to make the most of your time. Research the new technology inventions or brainstorm new work tactics to make better workflow and improve your business.

  • Remember why you started: When the future of your business does not look bright, remember why you opened it in the first place. What sparked the passion behind it? What motivated you to open it? Even if your dreams with your business do not look achievable, put in the effort to remember the positive moments that you’ve had. A way to do this is make a list of things you're grateful for that your business has brought you. Whether its meeting new people, gaining new clients, or going to new places, your business has always brought you something valuable. Don’t lose hope in your business. Even if the honeymoon phase is over, put in effort and patience to keep your love alive. 

Here at Newton Peach Marketing, we want to help you love your business more than ever before! With having us manage your website, google listings, and social media accounts, your love for your business will grow when you see the major improvements we can do. We strive on growing personal relationships with owners to help them reach a better love for their company. With several custom options available, we want you to fall back in love this Valentines Day with your company. Newton Peach is proud to help your business grow, and make you fall back in love with your dream.

Hit the Ground Running: Benefits of Running for Exercise

A New Year means new goals. What is yours?

Almost 50% of people who make new years resolution create a goal for exercising more, but few actually follow through with it. Many times, roadblocks like lack of money, no transportation, or no time are listed as reasons for falling off the exercise bandwagon. However, there is one type of exercise that costs very little, and you can do anywhere.

Are you ready to RUN??

Though running gets a reputation for being no fun, it is actually one of the most beneficial forms of exercise you can do. Not only is running an amazing aerobic exercise for your heart, it also produces serotonin (a hormone that increase the body’s feelings of wellbeing and happiness). Below are some benefits from running that may change your mind about the exercise:

Running adds years to your life

Many studies have shown that running increases your lifespan. How? After a period of time running, the human body shows an increase in cardiovascular fitness, lower cholesterol, less body fat, stronger bones, better hormone regulation, and all of these (and more) are key to good health and therefore, a likely increase in your lifespan.

Increase in sleep

Sleep is important for every human’s functional wellbeing. Whether you’re an athlete, a mom, or a businessman, everyone requires sleep. Because of the intensity of running, your body is going to be tired and will crave the rest and recovery your needs. An article in the American Journal of Lifestyle Exercise touted a connection between exercise and sleep; the worse your sleep habits, the less likely you are going to exercise, and vice versa.

Weight loss

Everyone knows that cardio helps you lose weight. Running burns more fat than (almost) any other activity because you are using your entire body through the duration of the exercise. On average, running burns 100 calories per mile! Many people find that losing weight is not difficult, but keeping it from coming back is. The only way to keep off the weight is to commit to a long-term exercise regime, and running fulfills that need.

Reduces Alzheimers, cancer, and many other diseases

A completely unexpected health benefit of running is the stimulated release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps the growth and survival of brain neurons. This aids in protection from brain plaques linked to Alzheimers. A study done in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed a connection that high-fitness exercises had a lower risk for developing 26 kinds of cancers. Along with lowering the risk, running can also reduce the effects of cancer if someone already has it.

It’s no secret that running pushes the mind and the body, but there are SO many benefits when you commit to a routine of physical exercise. Here at Newton Peach Marketing, we also strive to push ourselves, by committing to continued growth and effort in our business. This new year, we are focused on growing personal relationships with owners to help them reach their new-year business goals. With many custom options available, we are focused on your personalized plan to help you expand your business. We want to see you and your business flourish in 2022!

Paying Forward Your Blessings: Celebrating Thankfulness This Holiday Season

As many of us prepare for the holiday season with Thanksgiving this week (and Christmas right behind!), it's a good time to reflect on the many things we're thankful for this year. Perhaps you're most thankful to be gathering with friends and family for the first time in a long time, or maybe you're thankful for a new job (or keeping your old one) after a period of uncertainty. Whatever it is you are thankful for, it's so important to take time to remember and be grateful. It's also important to recognize that there are many around us who are still dealing with sadness, uncertainty, and other difficulties that make the holiday less celebratory, and more of a reminder of what isn't going well. That's why it's so important to give back. Whether it's through a community organization, a local ministry, or on your own, here are some ways you can pay the blessings forward this Thanksgiving season:

  • Donate your time. Taking a few hours to serve at a local shelter, help pack boxed Thanksgiving dinners for families in need, or making extras of your own Thanksgiving feast to deliver to shut-in neighbors are just a few simple means of spreading some love during the days leading up to Thanksgiving day.

  • Feeding Bodies = Feeding Souls. A good, hot meal is always welcome to those who are accustomed to going without, but this is especially true on Thanksgiving. Many food pantries tend to run low on items at this time of year, but if you're willing to step up, they don't have to! Organize a food drive in your neighborhood to collect canned foods and dry goods, or provide grocery gift cards for your local shelter. This helps them increase their stock of items on the shelves, and make it possible for more families to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner of their own. You'll fill bellies and brighten spirits with your kindness!

  • Look ahead. Because Christmas follows so closely behind Thanksgiving, now is a great time to look for opportunities to serve others through holiday events and organizations. There are many programs that let you "adopt" a child or a family for the Christmas season to provide gifts and/or a holiday meal. Many homeless ministries are looking for extra hands for a variety of projects around this time of year. Fundraising for your local charities, or simply going out caroling with a group of friends is a wonderful way to spread cheer this season.

We encourage you to take time this holiday to reflect on the many ways we've been blessed this year, and look for opportunities to pay it forward to those around us.

Best Books To Read In the Summer

unsplash-image-3w1XBUGj4ds.jpg

Guest Post by Autumn Kloth

What is better than reading a book outside on a sunny day, next to beautiful water drinking lemonade? That’s right, reading multiple books! At Newton Peach Marketing, we set quality time aside to explore books of different genres (including ones that help grow YOUR business). We’ve collected some of our favorite books we’ve read so far this summer, and that we highly recommend! Keep reading below to see our favorite picks so far this season:

  • 1776 by David McCullough: David McCullough narrates the intense story of how America broke away from being a British colony to its own independent nation. With George Washintgon as its leader, the newfound nation faces huge struggles and challenges that shapes the America we live in today. The story also follows the British soldiers, and the feelings and contempt they felt for the “redcoat” traitors, while fighting with courage little known. The story shows many narrations and ideas, from learning about how the American Loyalists felt, to catching the traitors on both sides, to seeing how families were torn apart during this time. The readers learn about two rarely known American patriots, Nathanael Greene and Henry Knox, who were instrumental to the success of defeating the British Empire. Most importantly, the readers will follow the leadership of George Washington, and read how he brought America from the edge of defeat to victory using brilliant tactics and thinking. 

  • Beloved by Toni Morrison: Meant for mature readers only, this book tells the story of Sethe, a mother, who escaped slavery. Almost 20 years later, though she is physically free, she is not mentally free, as she fights against remembering the horrid past of her slave years. When a past friend from “Sweet Home”, the ironically named place where she was a slave, comes to visit her, with him opens memories that she has struggled to forget. Lastly, her house is haunted by her deceased baby daughter, Beloved, who makes it clear she is not going away anytime soon. This book is poetically written and lyrically inspired, and has all the technique and language of an Nobel Prize Winner, Toni Morrison.  

  •  Rumble Fish by S.E. Hinton: Written by the bestselling author of “The Outsiders,” Rumble Fish follows the story of Rusty-James, the coolest and toughest guy in school who goes to Benny’s to shoot pool and hang out with his friends. As he is not known to be smart, he inspires to be like his brother, Motorcycle Boy, whose smarts, wits, and fighting skills earn him the reputation of being one of the most respected people on the streets. Whenever Rusty-James gets in trouble, his brother is there to help him out. As Rusty-James struggles with comparing himself to his brother, one day his brother isn’t there to help him out. 

On top of reading some inspiring and amazing books this summer, we dedicate time reading informative books and research papers on how to better you and your business. We believe that dedicating reading time on new marketing ideas directly impacts the growth of your business, and we are excited to continue this reading to help your business flourish. 

Celebrating Safely: 4 Tips to Show You Care This Valentine's Day

With just a little over a week left until Valentine's Day, many of us are busy making preparations for showing the ones we love just how much we care. It's no secret though that this year's holiday looks different than years past. No crowded restaurants, no big parties, no surprise cruises or last-minute vacations and no large-scale community events will be making their way onto the calendar. However, the reason for the day still rings true, and it's a good reminder that love isn't something you buy, but rather, something you show...and you can show it in SO many ways.

Here are some fun ways you can celebrate (safely) with the ones you care about most this holiday, whether it's your sweetheart, your kids, or someone else that's special in your life:

  • Do a "ding-dong and dash" surprise! This could be dropping off dinner, a homemade valentine card, a special dessert, or a bouquet of roses, but the idea is to ring the doorbell, and run away quickly after leaving the surprise at the recipient's front door. This is a fun way to show your love to an aging parent or loved one stuck at home, or to surprise someone who is currently in quarantine and can't celebrate the way they usually would.

  • Classic candy and cards...with a twist! While we all remember exchanging homemade valentine's and treats with our classmates, teachers, or coworkers in years past, this year the tradition might need a little tweaking. Instead of homemade goodies that could seem risky to some people, opt for store-bought candies or treats that are safely and individually wrapped. Put plenty of extra effort into your homemade card to give it the unique and special element that the treat will be missing this holiday!

  • Make early reservations, or enjoy a candlelight dinner at home. Restaurant reservations will fill more quickly than usual this year since most dining spaces are operating at limited capacity. Reserve your table as soon as possible, or make plans for a romantic dinner with candles for your sweetie at home. A simple setup on your own patio makes it feel more special than eating at the kitchen table, and if you add in takeout from their favorite place and a decadent dessert, they're sure to be just as happy as they would be in a 5-star local eatery!

  • Give back! Showing love to others is one of the best ways you can celebrate the holiday of love. Many community charities are in need right now, and donating to a local food pantry or shelter, or volunteering your time and energy (if you feel safe to do so) is a wonderful way to love those around you and bring yourself tons of joy in the process.

Newton Peach Marketing believes that every holiday has the potential to be just as special as the last, even if the traditions look a little different this year. Over the last 12 months, we’ve all learned a lot about resilience, creativity, and certainly about love. Time away from friends and family members have reminded us that love should be celebrated always, not just one one holiday each year. How will you show the ones in your life how much you care? We hope the tips and tricks above make the 14th just a little bit more special this year, and will bring some joy to you and to those around you. Happy Valentine’s Day!

When Working from Home Isn't Working for You: Tips for Making the Most of Your Space

Are you still working from home due to COVID concerns in the workplace? One major change we've seen in society since the beginning of this pandemic is the shift in employer mentality regarding remote workers and what they can do for business. More and more business owners are realizing that many, if not all, of their employees and staff can efficiently perform their job responsibilities from home, without the overhead of renting office space, paying for utilities and office supplies, etc. If you're one of these employees, working from home probably seemed grand for the first few weeks. 

Until, it wasn't. 

If you weren't prepared for, or accustomed to, working from home, it's a big change, and it isn't always easy. Many people don't have a home office set up as a regular part of their layout. If you have children, your work days might be more than a little chaotic as you balance conference calls, reports, and dealing with clients while shielding your computer from PB&J sandwiches and a game of football toss. Even if you don't have kids at home during the work day, simply not having a space to designate for work can be draining. You feel like work never actually ends, as your kitchen table is now your desk and workspace as well. 

The best solution would be to add on an office or two, right? As much as we support that decision, it's just not a likely option for many families. While not everyone can add on or designate an entire room to be an office, there are ways you can make an in-home workspace possible without spending a fortune on materials or furniture. Where should you start? 

  • Spare rooms. Do you have a guest room that is currently empty? What about a walk-in closet that doesn't get much use? Look for any spare areas in your home that could be "loaned out" as an office for you. Small, modular desk systems are easy to customize for small spaces, so you could fit a corner workspace into that guest room, or turn that closet into your own office hideout. Thinking creatively is the best way to start.

  • Getting creative with furniture. If you don't have a spare room, putting a new spin on pieces of furniture is another great option. Look for a hutch or writing desk system that closes up. Placing something like this in a dining room, kitchen area, or even bedroom allows you a place to store work computers, materials, and more, but doesn't leave it strewn about at the end of the day. You can closet the doors or lid, and visually "end" your work day. 

  • Collaborate and share the load. Do you have local friends or nearby neighbors also working from home? Perhaps you could coordinate to take shifts, letting your home be the "hangout" for everyone's kids for a few hours each morning, and then trading off in the afternoon. That allows each household to have a window of quiet, uninterrupted time each day to take care of conference calls, client consultations, and other tasks that are nearly impossible in a busy, noisy home. 

  • Check on your timing. If balancing kids and work is a struggle with your limited space. consider your schedule. Is there a way you could pack in more work hours early in the morning before your kids are awake and rolling? Could you create a designated "quiet" time that serves as a power hour for your job? Coming together as a family and working as a team where everyone is heard is the best way to make working from home go more smoothly. 

Newton Peach Marketing works with some of the best business owners in the greater Polk County area, and we've seen them admirably rise to the occasion during the COVID crisis of this past year. They have altered schedules, worked around their employees' needs, and shown, once again, what a WONDERFUL place Winter Haven can be. We are excited to see them continuing to grow and thrive in spite of all the unexpected events of this year, and are thankful to be part of that growth. Is your business blossoming in the midst of 2020? If not, Newton Peach Marketing would love to come alongside you and help you formulate a plan to get your name in front of the customers and clients who need to see it most. Our goal is to help you meet YOUR goals. Call for a consultation! 

How to Do Cardio Workouts at Home With No Equipment

gmb-monkey-87k1buDJ7Cc-unsplash.jpg

Many people set the goal of getting in shape. Many people also abandon that goal. There are numerous reasons this is the case. Often, however, people simply assume they need the right equipment to work out effectively.

This is an understandable assumption. That said, it’s not rooted in fact. It’s entirely possible to burn calories without special equipment, a gym membership, or even a lot of space. The following points illustrate just a few ways you can get in your daily cardio from the comfort of your own home.

Jog in Place

You may feel a little awkward jogging in place, but you shouldn’t. This simple exercise can actually burn a lot more calories than you might realize, especially if you’re wearing comfortable shoes. Although many factors contribute to how many calories someone burns while performing a given exercise, in general, a 125-pound person consistently jogging in place for 10 minutes could burn as many as 60 calories. That’s a pretty decent workout that requires virtually no space.

Perform High Knees

As your fitness improves, your goal is to identify reasonably intense exercises you can perform in a small area. High knees is a good example to consider. As the name implies, this exercise involves standing with your feet hip-width apart and raising one knee as close to your chest as possible while pumping the opposite arm and maintaining your balance. Alternate between each leg, and try to stay as light on your feet as possible. This is key to ensuring the workout is intense enough to help you burn calories.

Use Your Stairs

It’s important to keep in mind that certain items and features in your home can actually serve as fitness equipment if you’re creative. Consider your staircase. If it’s relatively long and wide, sprinting up it as fast as you can (while staying safe) is a simple way to get in a fairly intense workout. Every time you reach the top of the stairs, return to the bottom and sprint up them again, until you are too tired to do so. A 150-pound man consistently running up the stairs for an hour could potentially burn up to 950 calories!

Try Squats

Squats are another simple but effective exercise you can perform without access to much space. All you have to do is stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms extended in front of you. Squat down and hinge your hips back until your legs form a perfect 90-degree angle behind the knee. Return to the standing position and repeat until you are tired. For added intensity, jump up from your squats.

These few examples clearly indicate how easy it is to practice cardio without special equipment. Even if you have a small apartment, working out everyday is still an option. There goes your last excuse for not getting in shape!

Thank you to DJ Crino for contributing this month’s blog content on Newton Peach Marketing.

Turkey Day Tip: Cooking That Bird Can Be Risky!

When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, we all know that the bird is the star of the show. While the iconic picture is of mom (or grandma) pulling the perfectly roasted turkey from the oven and carrying it lovingly to the table to be carved, not everyone enjoys roasting their turkeys. Between the messy pan cleanup, the difficulty in gauging temperature, and the constant battle between serving a raw bird and having dry meat that no one wants to eat, alternative cooking methods have become a mission for many. In recent years, the most popular choice has been deep-frying turkey. It's no wonder, with it's close cousin the fried chicken being such a staple (and delicious) menu item...but it carries its own set of risks.

Deep frying turkeys is responsible for a huge number of injuries and accidents each year. Thanks to the high temperature, the large amount of oil, and inappropriate frying conditions, the process is dangerous to say the least, especially when handled irresponsibly. Does that mean you shouldn't fry your turkey? Not necessarily, but if you choose to cook the Thanksgiving bird in this way, there are some safety tips you need to keep in mind.

First, choose your cooking surface carefully. Outdoor environments ONLY should be used when frying a turkey, but that's not the only requirement. Surfaces should be flat and level, free of any flammable materials (including dry grass), and a safe distance away from any houses or other structures (like garden sheds, play houses, etc.). You should never use a fryer in a garage, on a deck or patio, or under any type of sheltered space. Be sure only the person frying the turkey is nearby. Children, bystanders, and pets should be kept at a safe distance or, preferably, indoors away from the action.

Additionally, you need to prepare your turkey carefully. Turkeys should be completely thawed before you prepare to fry it. Check even the inside of the turkey, as frozen spots can make the oil bubble up and over the sides of the fryer thanks to the temperature reaction. Pat the surface of the turkey dry of any condensation before placing it in the oil as well as water hitting the oil will have the same type of reaction as ice.

Finally, have the appropriate safety equipment on hand just in case. Use well-insulated cooking mitts when handling anything related to the fryer. Wear safety goggles and long sleeves to protect yourself from any hot oil splatter. In case of accidents, keep a cell phone nearby to call 911 right away, and keep a fire extinguisher on hand to quickly put out fires if possible. Last but not least, keep the instructions for the fryer with you, as each individual unit will have its own specific oil measurements and operation steps that should be followed exactly to ensure safety and proper cooking of your turkey.

Newton Peach Marketing wishes all of you a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday with the ones you care about most. We are proud to call the Winter Haven community our home, and consider each of you a neighbor. It's our pleasure to serve local businesses with the best service possible, and we are thankful for YOU. Happy Thanksgiving!

Halloween at The Office: Making Your Workplace Holiday-Friendly

Halloween is coming up quickly and while employers don't necessarily have to think about their staff trick-or-treating, it is important to be aware of various holidays and how they might be used to boost employee morale. It doesn't take much money or effort to make your office environment festive, or at the very least, make the work day more conducive to your workers' need for family time on these special days. Newton Peach Marketing works with businesses of all kinds, and we've seen some pretty great ideas put into place by employers for various holidays, specifically for Halloween.

Take these tips and tricks to heart, and see what you could incorporate in your own place of business to get the spooky fun started this year:

Office Party. Let's face it, even adults enjoy a good party. While the festive cupcakes and fun treat bags of classroom parties gone by might not be the best way to celebrate anymore, an office party to celebrate fun holidays is definitely not out of the question! Whether you want to go all out with cubicle decorating or costume contests, or have a simple potluck for that day's lunch break, diverting from the usual hum-drum routine of work life with a fun, festive party is a great way to build team spirit among your staff, and have a great time as a group.

Participate in Local Events. From sponsoring a local trunk-or-treat or Fall Festival event, to handing out candy during a citywide trick-or-treating night, your business can make an impact on your community by playing a part in holiday events. This is not only a good way to give back, but it also offers free exposure for your brand, and that means more potential customers or clients for YOU. We call that a win-win.

Alter the Day's Schedule. On some holidays, especially Halloween, parents can experience work/life balance difficulties. Most of the time trick-or-treating kicks off a little before sundown, and for those who don't get off work until 6 or 7, it's nearly impossible to take care of picking up kids from daycare or sitters, getting dinner taken care of, and getting into costumes in time to get candy before night falls and it becomes more dangerous to be out on the streets (not to mention neighborhoods and HOAs with time limits for trick-or-treating). As an employer, you can win some serious points with your staff if you offer an early release from the office that day, or trade off hours with someone who doesn't have children and won't need to participate in the evening's festivities. Flexibility is key. Trust us, if you are understanding and willing to work with them, they'll be more likely to have your back when an unexpected deadline or office issue pops up.

We hope everyone here in Polk County has a safe and enjoyable Halloween this year. We look forward to seeing our local friends and neighbors out and about enjoying the fun, and are already enjoying the fun design work, festive giveaways, and other digital jobs we get to do for our clients at this time of year. Want to know how your business can make holidays work for YOU, and build your brand online by tapping into seasonal content? Call us! Happy Halloween!

Show Your Favorite Businesses Just How Much You LOVE Them This Valentine's Day

heart-29328_640.png

Valentine's Day is all about showing those around you how much you care. Giving gifts, acts of service, or a simple "I love you" to remind someone that they are important to you are all ways we share the love around this holiday. Have you thought about showing your favorite local businesses just how much you appreciate them, and care about their success in the community though? They might not be your first thought when Valentine's Day rolls around, but there are many ways you can show them some love and help boost their presence in the community not just on holidays, and EVERY day. 

How? 

Give them positive reviews. It's easy (and common) to leave a negative review. When we receive goods or services that are less than satisfactory, we want a sense of justice, and often, leaving a scathing review makes us feel somehow validated in our displeasure...and we totally understand that! After all, that's what reviews are for, right? They are the modern day "comments box" for businesses, and they give other potential customers insight into what they can expect from a particular business or brand. How often do you leave a positive review though? Taking those extra few minutes of your time to leave a review letting a business owner know how much you were impressed by their product, their service, or even their staff is a great way to show them some love, and send other customers their way. 

Make them your first choice. How often do we say we like a local business, but the first time a shopping need comes up, whether for a gift, a home service, or simply something for your home, you jet off to the big box store down the street simply because it's convenient? Taking the extra time and effort to utilize local small businesses as your first shopping choice not only makes them feel loved, but makes them successful, and that benefits everyone in the community. Cities where businesses are growing and thriving have better economies, and higher employment rates. What's not to LOVE about that? 

Refer your friends. Word of mouth is a key way to grow small, local businesses, and any marketing expert will tell businesses owners how vital it is to get people talking about their brand and name within the community. A business card, a social media post, or even a booth at a downtown fair or market are definitely key points in growing a business and brand, but even those who visit the booth, see the Facebook ad, or receive a business card might not follow through and become a patron unless a friend or family member can personally attest to the quality of the goods or services offered. That's where YOU come in. If you love a local business, tell people about it! Share their posts on Facebook and throw in a personal reference for your contacts. Did someone comment on that great piece of jewelry you're wearing from a local boutique, or ask you how you've landscaped your yard so beautifully for the upcoming spring season? It's ok to name drop! Spreading the names of small businesses will help them immensely, and will ensure that your treasured goods and services that they offer will be around for years to come. 

Newton Peach Marketing is committed to making sure our local businesses in and around the Winter Haven area thrive and grow. By customizing plans for each individual client we ensure quality services at a price they can afford. When you put your business growth in our hands, you are given the freedom to pay only for what you need, and nothing more, unlike pre-determined packages with larger marketing firms. That means you're left with more money to invest back into your business, allowing you to continue to expand...and nothing makes us happier than seeing you succeed. Interested in what we can do for you? There's a simple two step process: give us a call, and tell us how you want to grow in 2019. We do the rest!