This is Frontenac, a promotional video, was created to share the Frontenac brand through the lens and voices of its residents, local business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members. The initiative focused on storytelling to foster authenticity, ensuring the final product would resonate not only with visitors but also deeply with those who call Frontenac home.
Originally, the video was intended to launch a new destination website. However, resource limitations delayed the website’s development. This challenge turned into an opportunity to collaborate with regional tourism organizations (RTO 9 and the Ontario Highlands Tourism Organization), as well as Destination Ontario. These partnerships provided valuable promotional support. Notably, a single post from Destination Ontario garnered over 9,400 views—more than six times Frontenac County’s typical organic reach of 1,200–1,500 views.
What set the video apart was its emotional depth and local authenticity. Residents shared that it moved them to tears, making them feel proud and deeply connected to the place they call home.
The video showcased the full geographic diversity of Frontenac County—from the Islands to North, Central, and South Frontenac—featuring a wide range of voices and experiences. We ensured the stories aligned with key themes from the Destination Development Plan, including outdoor recreation, culinary experiences, and arts and culture.
Our target audience was Ontario residents aged 35–50 seeking lesser-known destinations to explore. Frontenac appeals to those looking to disconnect from the fast pace of everyday life and connect with nature, community, and a slower rhythm. This audience aligns with our tourism segmentation research, which highlights both older couples and younger families as key demographic groups. By using real community voices, the campaign reached these audiences in a way that felt genuine, trustworthy, and emotionally engaging.
Sustainability was also central to the project. From the film crew to our partners, participants, and locations—everything was local to Frontenac or nearby municipalities. One highlight features local chef Brad Long (owner of Belong Sharbot Lake) visiting Fen Valley Farm to source seasonal produce for his restaurant. Brad, along with many local business owners, proudly champions the farm-to-table approach with a focus on locally sourced ingredients year-round. This hyper-local approach helps keep economic benefits within the region, reinforcing the sustainability and resilience of the community.
This is Frontenac, has since become a go-to tool for trade shows, council presentations, and networking events. It offers an inspiring introduction to our region—leaving a lasting impression.
The story of Frontenac is no longer just being told by the County—it’s being shared by the people who live here.
Frontenac is wild, pure, raw, and relaxing.
Frontenac is reprieve.
Supporting Links
Frontenac County Brand Standards:
FRONTENAC_Tourism_Brand_Standards_2023_101MB.pdf
Collaboration post with Discover Ontario: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIb0SzROvDK/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLTd-ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE3OVU1a1lxVU9RTWpGZjk3AR4tngUwC8AX4uh-bmQXvc9xTiF1lkyp5PdgC37LcgSuomJBO4pndVaVcOxl_A_aem_AS2YQxdJROC1q6qnDb90ag
Visit Frontenac Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Acwf9mmeA/
Collaboration Instagram post with Discover Ontario: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIudyKYybLY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link