When it comes to tourism success stories, few towns have done it as well as Bell Buckle, Tennessee. It’s a tourism powerhouse today, but its growth wasn’t just luck—it was strategy. And one of the simplest yet most effective strategies that fueled Bell Buckle’s rise is something any business can replicate today:
Partner Up with a Neighbor
Many of you may already be doing this in some way, but if you haven’t, now is the time. Find a neighboring business and form a partnership. Get to know their business as well as your own, and encourage them to do the same.
Think about those hidden gems in your town:
That iconic local spot with the best milkshakes
The boutique that not only sells amazing clothing but also gives back to the community each Christmas
The coffee shop with a specialty drink that’s a best-kept secret
These businesses have stories worth telling, and as a community, it’s your job to share them with visitors.
Extending the Stay, One Interaction at a Time
I often say that the key to successful tourism is continuation—getting visitors to stay just a little longer. Whether it’s one more burger, one more drink, or one more night, every extra dollar spent in town has a collective impact on the entire community.
But how do we make that happen?
It starts at the cash register. Instead of ending the interaction with a simple “Thank you for your business; have a nice day,” try this instead:
“Where are you visiting from?”
“What brings you to town?”
“Where are you headed next?”
If they have time, offer a great recommendation—and that’s where your partnership with a neighboring business comes into play.
For example, if you own a restaurant and someone mentions they love local art, you can send them to the gallery down the street. If you run a boutique and they mention they’re passing through for the night, recommend the cozy B&B nearby. By extending their stay—even just a little—you’re creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone.
The Power of One Partnership
Start with just one partnership. Businesses that commit to this approach are often blown away by how much extra activity it generates. Instead of seeing a transaction as an ending, start viewing it as an opportunity to extend a visitor’s experience in your community.
Bell Buckle proved this works. Now, it’s your turn.
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