Ignite Your Brand – Building a Business That Belongs
I recently found myself in Revelstoke, a charming BC ski town. What struck me most wasn’t just the massive snow drifts or the energy of the après-ski scene—it was how deeply ski culture had woven itself into every aspect of the town, including its businesses. Even those completely unrelated to outdoor recreation had found creative ways to integrate elements of ski life into their branding, marketing, and overall customer experience.
This got me thinking: how can businesses—no matter where they are—tap into the culture that surrounds them to create a stronger connection with their audience?
The Power of Cultural Integration
Branding isn’t just about a logo or a color scheme; it’s about creating a feeling. Businesses in Revelstoke have mastered this by embracing the local ski culture in ways that go beyond selling gear. Coffee shops name their drinks after famous runs, boutique hotels design their interiors with vintage ski posters and reclaimed wood, and even non-ski-related businesses adopt a laid-back, adventure-ready vibe in their messaging.
By aligning with the local identity, businesses create an emotional connection with both locals and visitors. They tap into a collective experience, making their brand feel like an organic part of the town’s fabric rather than just another shop on the street.
Even if your business isn’t nestled in a ski town, the principles remain the same:
Identify Your Local Culture – What defines the spirit of your town or region? It could be a strong arts scene, a rich agricultural history, or a deep-rooted coffee culture. Understanding what resonates with your community is the first step.
Integrate, Don’t Imitate – Authenticity is key. Businesses in Revelstoke don’t just slap a pair of skis on their storefront; they weave ski culture into their brand story, decor, and product offerings in ways that feel natural. Similarly, businesses elsewhere should find ways to genuinely embrace their local identity rather than force it.
Speak the Language – Whether it’s using regional slang, referencing local landmarks, or incorporating well-known traditions into your messaging, the way you communicate should feel familiar and relevant to your audience.
Design with Culture in Mind – From packaging to store aesthetics, subtle nods to your region’s culture can create an immersive experience for customers. Think about how your visuals and branding can reflect the local vibe.
Build Community Connections – Partnering with local influencers, collaborating with nearby businesses, or sponsoring community events can help solidify your brand as part of the culture rather than an outsider trying to capitalize on it.
Culture as a Competitive Advantage
In an increasingly digital world, businesses need more than just a great product or service—they need a brand identity that resonates. Integrating local culture isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about storytelling, connection, and creating a sense of belonging for customers.
Revelstoke’s businesses have mastered this by seamlessly infusing ski culture into their brand DNA. The result? A town where every business, whether a bakery or a thrift store, feels like an extension of the mountain lifestyle.
Wherever your business is located, take a cue from Revelstoke: embrace what makes your community unique and use it to build a brand that feels not just present, but sparked by the culture around you.
Want to learn how to build a brand that resonates? At Social Spark Collective, we help businesses create branding and social media strategies that connect. Let’s chat about how to make your brand an authentic part of your local culture.