Page 34 - OUR VIBE ISSUE 1 design

MEMBERS
ONLY
When I first had the idea to create a Facebook Group, I never imagined how fast it would grow and how popular it would become! It was a shining light in the darkness that was created to motivate and inspire members with ideas and recommendations to get out and explore Northern Ireland safely. Ultimately, to help members stay positive though these uncertain and strange times and offer support during the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
P icNIc offered members a private platform to chat,
share, ask questions, make recommendations, post images and develop
supportive relationships, whilst driving traffic to local businesses and attractions in Northern Ireland. In addition, picNIc was passionate about supporting local business and allowed subtle promotion on the platform by relevant businesses who wished to engage with members and increase their business opportunities.
At the beginning picNIc – great days outandnightsinNorthernIrelandwas a fitting name for the group and we all felt challenged to get out with a picnic to some of our beautiful locations and visitorattractions. Inrainandshinewe proactively moved around Northern
Ireland and turned the Summer of 2020 into a memorable time for all the family. Then we introduced Staycations, and we shared our experiences from the traditional hotels, guest houses, self- catering accommodation to the quirky glamping and pod accommodation. Michelle Davis who runs StaycationsNI introduced us to a variety of new accommodation ideas on her weekly post that informed us and inspired us to try out the new.
Over 12 weeks we ran a free prize draw, which became a huge part of the group activities and we gave away some amazingprizes. Alldonatedby business supporters who believed in the group and who cared about our members. We stuck together and believed in helping each other #peoplehelpingpeople.
As a result of the huge popularity of the group and significant increase in membership over the summer, the vision and direction of the group has organically changed and a new brand name and design was created to represent a wider audience and diverse business community.
NO PLACE like OUR PLACE (Northern Ireland) was created to help keep Northern Ireland moving and our members exploring, engaging, and experiencing all that our place has to offer.
I hope you will continue to enjoy being part of our unique community, your engagement is vital to the longevity of the group. Together we will push through and keep smiling!
#holidayathomeni
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34
OUR VIBE NI - AUTUMN 2020
by Julie Fitzsimmons