Bertie County, North Carolina, from its farmlands to iconic cypress groves, is a vibrant rural community steeped in history, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Through our work on Destination Bertie, we developed a brand strategy and visual identity that celebrates the county’s unique character while positioning it as a premier destination for ecotourism and agritourism.
The Challenge
Bertie County faced the challenge of uniting its diverse community under a shared identity while also attracting visitors to its pristine landscapes. The county needed a cohesive brand that would resonate with residents, inspire pride, and highlight its ability to stand out in North Carolina’s competitive coastal tourism market.
Brand Strategy
The brand strategy for Bertie County tourism centers on the tagline “Hear the Sound,” a reference to the Albemarle Sound that has supported the area’s residents and economy for centuries. As a soulful convergence of history and natural beauty, Bertie County seeks to emphasize its waterways, cultural diversity, and outdoor assets. The strategy also prioritizes fostering local pride, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting environmental stewardship to drive tourism and economic growth.
Visual Identity
The visual identity captures the county’s unique character through a combination of earth tones, organic shapes, and imagery inspired by its waterways, forests, wildlife, and cultural landmarks. The logo and design elements evoke the serenity of the Cashie and Roanoke Rivers, the mystique of the Albemarle Sound, and the resilience of the community. Together, these elements create a cohesive and inspiring brand that reflects Bertie County’s spirit and invites visitors to explore where the water meets the trees.
Conceptual Wayfinding Designs
Countywide wayfinding and gateway signage concepts were derived from the destination brand identity. Coordinating our planning and branding efforts in such a multidisciplinary fashion helps fast-track revitalization efforts by casting a comprehensive vision to promote visitation, improve connectivity, and showcase what Bertie can offer the world.
Insights, Evaluation & Community Collaboration
Through conversations with residents, exploration of the county’s history, and analysis of its natural and cultural assets, we identified key themes: unifying community, cultural diversity, historical significance, and natural landscapes and waterways. Our collaborative approach honored the community while fostering a sense of pride among residents.
