Executive Summary
Webinar
This proposal outlines two webinar concepts designed to attract young customers to Flight Fuel Cafe. By promoting local artists and storytellers, an “Open Mic Night” can draw customers by reinforcing the coffee shop’s status in the community.
Flight Fuel Cafe has steadily lost foot traffic as trendier corporate brands like Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts have entered the Florence, South Carolina, area. College students and young professionals make up the vast majority of this decrease; therefore, the target audience will be people aged 20 to 30.
This issue will be addressed by hosting two webinars focused on this age group. Even though Flight Fuel has been in business since 2013 and is a staple in the Florence area, younger customers have chosen the trendier options mentioned above. By showcasing local talent, the coffee shop reinforces its community brand while also giving these artists exposure. These webinars are designed to drive traffic, both in-store and online.
Webinar 1: Flight Fuel Live: Local Talent Showcase
Social media has changed and shaped the landscape of how people engage with businesses, especially young people. Dunkin’ Donuts has aggressively used a social media campaign, with a strong social media presence across Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, including partnering with influencer Charli D’Amelio, which was widely successful through a caramel cold brew called “The Charli.” That campaign saw a 57% increase in app downloads on the day the drink launched and a 43% increase in overall cold brew sales, according to Medium.
“Our fans can’t get enough of the genuine love between Charli and Dunkin’, so creating the Charli x Dunkin’ merch collection felt like the perfect next step in our relationship. This collection is our way of sprinkling more Charli and Dunkin’ love onto our fans,” Dunkin’ Brand Engagement Manager Kemma Kefalas told Medium. “We worked hand in hand with Charli to bring her signature look into each accessory so our fans can sip their Charli Cold Foam in style this spring.”
The 45-minute webinar, Flight Fuel Live: Local Talent Showcase, is designed to bring awareness to Flight Fuel Cafe by hosting local musicians, poets and comedians who will be performing at the coffee shop at the weekly event. Scheduled for the Tuesday before “Open Mic Night,” this webinar extends “Open Mic” beyond the café.
“Open mic nights (or days depending on when you close) are a great fit for the coffee shop environment,” Claire Brady wrote for SumUp, a financial technology company. “Local artists, comedians, and other performers can entertain in an intimate environment, while customers are comfortable spending a couple hours kicking back (and ordering more!).”
The target audience of 20 to 30 is one of the best for an “open mic night,” because it lines up with their lifestyle, values and what Flight Fuel offers. This group desires social connection, harbors an interest in creative expression, prefers experiences over products, is familiar with Flight Fuel’s culture of community, is highly engaged on social media and supports authentic local spaces.
A webinar can effectively support and enhance Open Mic Night at Flight Fuel Café by serving as a lead-in, promotional tool and extension of the event experience. Before the event, a webinar like this can help reduce anxiety for first-time performers by explaining the process and setting expectations, ultimately increasing participation. It can also generate buzz by promoting the event, highlighting the café’s atmosphere and offering incentives to attend. Additionally, webinars allow the café to reach a wider audience by showcasing performances or sharing highlights with those who cannot attend in person. This creates ongoing engagement, strengthens the sense of community, and provides valuable content for social media promotion. Overall, webinars help attract new participants, extend the event’s reach, and reinforce Flight Fuel’s identity as a creative, community-centered space.
Webinar 2: From the Cockpit to the Coffee Shop
Flight Fuel Cafe owner and founder, Captain Jack Reynolds, spent over three decades as a pilot in the Marines and for Delta Air Lines. After retiring from the cockpit, Reynolds returned to his hometown of Florence to open his coffee shop.
“From the Cockpit to the Coffee Shop” draws in a 20–30-year-old audience because it taps into their strong interest in authentic stories, career journeys and purpose-driven work. Many people in this age group are still figuring out their own paths, so hearing how Captain Reynolds transitioned from a high-stakes aviation career to building a local business makes the brand feel relatable and inspiring. It also differentiates Flight Fuel from corporate chains by giving it a human face and unique identity, which younger consumers tend to value when choosing where to spend their money. The storytelling aspect creates a deeper emotional connection, making customers feel like they are supporting a real person and a meaningful journey rather than just buying coffee. Additionally, this kind of narrative is highly shareable on social media, helping attract more young customers who are drawn to experiences and brands with a story.
Livestorm reported that “webinar engagement before, during, and after events is closely linked to higher lead generation and conversion rates.”
Livestorm (2025). 13 Webinar Engagement Strategies To Keep Audiences Invested
Medium (2022). Dunkin’ Runs On Social Media
Sumup. (2025). 11 Themed Occasions to Bring in More Coffee Shop Customers
Content Development
I. Introduction (5 minutes)
Welcome and opening by moderator Shawn Singleton
Brief overview of the webinar goals and what attendees can expect over the next 45 minutes
Introduce guest speakers (One musical artist, one poet)
Icebreaker poll: “What do you want to hear at an open mic event?” (Musicians? Poets? Comedians? Other?)
II. Key Talking Points and Transitions (15 minutes)
Segment 1: Who is the performer, and how he/she got started? (10 minutes)
Speaker gives short bio of himself/herself, and what drew them to their respective chosen medium.
Talk about how they got started performing live, who their influences are and their style.
Segment 2: Creative Process (10 minutes)
Live performance from artist featured on webcast
Discussion of musical or poetic style, and what drives them.
Segment 4: Advice (5 minutes)
What advice would the performer give to others interested in “Open Mic Night” at Flight Fuel Cafe
III. Supporting Visuals or Multimedia Ideas
Slides with images of the performer (if available)
Video clips of the performer at a previous live event
IV. Plan for Audience Interaction
Live Polls:
Have you considered attending an “Open Mic Night?”
Have you considered performing live in a small venue/
Q&A Segment (15 minutes):
Attendees submit questions throughout the session via chat
Moderator reads and directs questions to panelists live
Interactive Chat Prompts:
“What is your favorite type of music (pop, jazz, rock, hip-hop, country)?”
Follow-Up Resources (shared via email and chat):
List of acts performing each week.
Execution and Reflection
Reflection
The Behind the Scenes: Building The Hangar Sessions webinar successfully introduced the vision, purpose, and structure of Flight Fuel Cafe’s upcoming live open mic experience at El Venue. It effectively communicated the event’s role in positioning the café as a creative community hub while building excitement through a clear walkthrough of the concept, venue layout, and audience experience. The inclusion of a Q&A segment helped address common questions from performers and attendees, reinforcing accessibility, transparency, and inclusivity. Overall, the webinar strengthened community engagement and generated early interest by clearly connecting the event’s creative goals with its real-world execution.
Open Mic Night at Flight Fuel Cafe
Looking for something fun to do midweek? Join us every Thursday for Open Mic Night!
Enjoy a rotating lineup of local musicians, poets, comedians and storytellers in a relaxed, welcoming space.
☕ Specialty drinks
🎶 Live performances
🎁 Giveaways (launch night + select weeks)
Want to perform?
Sign up online or in person starting at 5:45 PM.
Bring your friends and come support local talent!
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Shawn Singleton
Flight Fuel Cafe
https://www.singletonpublicrelations.org/
Flight Fuel Cafe Launches Weekly Open Mic Series to Support Local Artists
FLORENCE, S.C. (April 21, 2026) — Flight Fuel Cafe, a neighborhood coffee shop known for its welcoming atmosphere and handcrafted beverages, is launching a weekly open mic night to spotlight local talent in the Pee Dee region. The free event takes place every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 123 Evans St., beginning May 7.
Open to musicians, poets, comedians and storytellers of all experience levels, the series offers a supportive, intimate space for creative expression. Guests can enjoy live performances alongside specialty coffee drinks and fresh, locally sourced pastries.
“Our vision goes beyond serving great coffee — we’re creating a hub for creativity and connection,” said Captain Jack Reynolds, owner and founder of Flight Fuel Cafe. “Open mic night gives local artists a platform to be seen and heard while bringing the community together in a meaningful way.”
Performers can register in advance online or sign up in person starting at 5:45 p.m., with each act receiving approximately 20 minutes. To mark the launch, the cafe will feature discounted drinks, a themed specialty beverage and merchandise giveaways during the first event.
Artists and community members are invited to attend, perform or learn more by visiting Flight Fuel Cafe online or in person. Follow the cafe on social media for updates and weekly performer highlights.
Targeted Promotional Channels
The goal is to increase awareness, media visibility and community participation by promoting “Open Mic Night” through strategic communications, partnerships and targeted outreach.
Social Media Outreach
We will leverage social platforms to support earned media, build anticipation and extend reach:
Instagram (Reels and Stories featuring participants, behind-the-scenes content)
TikTok (short-form videos via library account or collaborations with local creators)
Facebook (Event pages, updates and community engagement)
X (teasers, countdowns and real-time updates)
Email & Direct Communications
We will use owned channels to reinforce messaging and drive attendance:
Library newsletter targeting parents, teens and educators
Partner newsletters through the local schools, colleges and universities, such as Francis Marion University, Florence-Darlington Technical College and Coker University
Community-Based Promotion
We will strengthen visibility in the Florence community through on-the-ground efforts:
In-library signage and printed flyers
Distribution of materials at schools and community hubs
QR codes linking directly to registration and event details
Social Media Post Examples
Instagram Feed Post
Open Mic Night at Flight Fuel Cafe ✨🎤
Got something to share? Music, poetry, comedy—we want to hear it.
Join us every Thursday from 6:30–9 p.m. for a night of local talent, great coffee and even better vibes ☕
🎶 Perform or just kick back and enjoy the show
📍 123 Evans St., Florence, SC
⏰ Sign-ups start at 5:45 PM
Tag a friend who needs to hit the stage 👇
#OpenMicNight #FlorenceSC #LiveLocal #SupportLocalArtists #CoffeeAndCreativity
TikTok Post Idea
🎬 Clip: quick cuts of performances, espresso shots pouring, crowd clapping
Text Overlay:
“Your Thursday night plans just upgraded 👀”
Caption:
Open Mic Night hits different at Flight Fuel ☕🎤
Pull up or perform—either way, it’s a vibe
#OpenMic #CoffeeShopVibes #FlorenceSC #LiveMusic #LocalTalent
Event Concept and Strategic Brief
“The Hangar Sessions” will be a recurring midweek event that brings together local creatives and the broader Florence community. The event will showcase live performances from musicians, poets, comedians and storytellers in a relaxed, coffeehouse setting designed to encourage community connection and creative expression.
Purpose and Strategic Objectives
The purpose of Flight Fuel Cafe’s “Hangar Sessions” is to create a consistent, welcoming platform for local creatives to share their talents while fostering community connection. The event is designed to position Flight Fuel Cafe as a cultural hub in Florence — where coffee, creativity and conversation intersect — while driving repeat foot traffic and brand loyalty.
Create a reliable weekly gathering space that brings together artists, students and young professionals, strengthening Flight Fuel Cafe’s role as a local “third place.”
Differentiate Flight Fuel Cafe from competitors like Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts by aligning the brand with creativity, local culture and live experiences — not just coffee.
Achieve steady weekly turnout through a mix of performers and audience members, with a focus on repeat visitors and word-of-mouth growth through the community.
Develop a rotating network of local talent to ensure fresh, high-quality performances each week and sustained interest over time.
Secure local media coverage and community partnerships that reinforce Flight Fuel Cafe’s reputation as a supporter of the arts in the Pee Dee Area.
Event Type
Event Format: Brief host welcome and a rotating lineup of live performances—music, poetry, comedy and storytelling—with each act receiving approximately 10–20 minutes.
The Hangar Sessions at Flight Fuel Cafe create an interactive, welcoming experience for the local community—especially young adults and creatives—centered around live performance and connection. Attendees can enjoy a rotating lineup of music, poetry, comedy and storytelling while sipping coffee and engaging with performers in an intimate setting. The event encourages participation through open sign-ups, audience interaction and weekly performer spotlights, making each night feel fresh and unique. Hosted within the cozy cafe environment, The Hangar Sessions fosters a relaxed, creative atmosphere that strengthens connections between artists and the community in a fun, authentic way.
Mood Board
Target Audience and Estimated Attendance
Audience: Young professionals and students from the local colleges and universities in Florence and the surrounding areas aged 20 to 30. These people have moderate disposable incomes, frequent coffee shops and are looking for fresh nightlife opportunities. They are interested in social experiences, community-driven events, discovering local talent and unique experiences, as well as networking and meeting like-minded people
Estimated Attendance: “Open Mic Nights” generally start off slowly, and build interest over time, so conservatively, we can expect around 40 guests, including the performers and close friends. The target attendance for the opening show is around 60 to 70 visitors.
Accessibility at thr Venue: We are committed to making The Hangar Sessions welcoming and accessible to all guests and performers. The venue offers an inclusive, supportive environment with accessible seating, clear pathways and accommodations where possible. The event encourages participation from diverse voices and maintains a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment. Guests can find event details and updates on Instagram and Facebook, and are encouraged to share feedback to help improve accessibility and inclusion.
Date, Time, and Potential Venues
Date and Time: Thursday, May 7, 2026, 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Reasoning: Thursday nights are a common night for college students and young professionals to seek entertainment options.
Venue: El Venue, 157 Evans St., Florence, S.C. 29501, a former drug store built in 1912 that was converted into an event venue.
How does this event support Flight Fuel Cafe’s PR Goals
The public relations goal of The Hangar Sessions is to generate local media coverage and community buzz that positions Flight Fuel Cafe as a creative hub for live arts and culture. The event aims to increase visibility, attract new audiences and build ongoing engagement through consistent storytelling across platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
Brief Overview of the Event Venue
Venue: El Venue
Location: 157 W. Evans Street, Florence, S.C. 29501
El Venue is located in a building in downtown Florence that was built in 1912 as a drug store. El Venue has over 5,200 square feet of space, including a catering kitchen of over 660 square feet equipped with a large ice maker, large fridge, warming oven, industrial sink and four stainless steel tables for setup. It also has a lounge, or dressing room, which provides the perfect space for The Hangar Sessions.
Needs: The Hangar Sessions is an exclusively indoor event. Speakers and a mic for the event will be needed, as well as security and insurance.
Rental Details: Since The Hangar Sessions will be held on a Thursday night, El Venue’s rental fee is $700 from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., with the dressing room for the performers costing $150, 10 tables totaling $70 with four chairs at each table totaling $80, tablecloths for each table totaling $80, the standing speaker with mics costing $75 and a $300 refundable incidental fee for a grand total of $1,475.
Sustainability: The venue can hold up to 100 guests without any additional fees. Alcohol will not be served at the event, so no special licenses needed.
Timeline of Event Milestones
PRE-PRODUCTION & PLANNING
April 21–24
Finalize event concept and branding for The Hangar Sessions
Confirm venue layout and performance area
Finalize promotional strategy and PR plan
Begin outreach to local performers and community partners
OPERATIONS & EVENT SETUP
April 25–29
Confirm A/V equipment and sound setup
Finalize seating layout and stage design
Secure event signage and branded materials
Coordinate staffing and volunteer support
Record promotional webinar and event proposal content before April 29
PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGN LAUNCH
April 30–May 3
Launch official social media campaign across Instagram, TikTok and Facebook
Publish performer sign-up information
Release countdown posts and teaser videos
Distribute flyers and in-cafe promotional materials
Send media advisory to local press and community calendars
FINAL EVENT PREP
May 4–6
Confirm performer lineup and event schedule
Conduct final sound and equipment check
Prepare specialty drinks, giveaways and merchandise
Confirm social media coverage/content capture plan
Final walkthrough of venue setup and guest flow
EVENT DAY – MAY 7, 2026
4:30 PM
Staff arrival and setup begins
5:00 PM
Sound check and stage preparation
5:45 PM
Performer sign-ups open / guest arrival begins
6:30 PM
Doors officially open and host welcome
6:35 PM – 8:50 PM
Live performances (music, poetry, comedy and storytelling)
8:50 PM – 9:00 PM
Closing remarks and promotion for next week’s session
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Breakdown, cleanup and post-event recap content collection
POST-EVENT FOLLOW-UP
May 8–10
Share event recap photos/videos online
Thank performers and attendees on social media
Collect audience feedback and engagement metrics
Begin promotion for the next Hangar Sessions event
Logistics and Budget Plan
Staffing and Vendor Needs
Flight Fuel Cafe Staff
Full-Time Employees (2)
Event oversight and operations management
Vendor coordination and performer check-in
Customer service and issue resolution
Part-Time Employees (6)
Barista and beverage service (2)
Guest check-in and seating assistance (1)
Merchandise and giveaway table (1)
Stage/performer support and timekeeping (1)
Social media content capture and crowd engagement (1)
Security
Police Officers (2)
Crowd monitoring and venue security
Parking lot and entrance oversight
Assistance with event closing and guest departure
Security Cost Estimate:
$45 per hour per officer
2 officers × 4 hours = $360 total
Vendor Needs
Audio/Visual Vendor
Microphones, speakers and mixer
Basic stage lighting
Sound check and live audio support
Rental Vendor
Additional chairs and cocktail tables (if needed)
Signage and barricades for crowd flow
Food & Beverage Support
Coffee and specialty drink supplies
Pastries/snacks inventory for increased attendance
Promotional Vendors
Event photography/videography support
Printing for flyers, signage and QR code materials
Additional Operational Needs
Performer sign-up station
Merchandise and giveaway setup
Cleaning and breakdown supplies
Extension cords, power strips and backup equipment
Estimated Staffing Total
2 Full-Time Employees
6 Part-Time Employees
2 Police Officers
Total Event Staff & Security Personnel: 10
Event Budget & Revenue Overview
Estimated Event Expenses
El Venue Rental Fee (4 p.m. – 11 p.m.): $700
Performer Dressing Room: $150
10 Tables: $70
Chairs (4 per table): $80
Tablecloths: $80
Standing Speaker + Microphones: $75
Event Signage & Printed Materials: $125
Refundable Incidental Fee: $300
Security Officers (2 officers × 4 hours @ $45/hr): $360
Subtotal: $1,940
10% Contingency Fund: $194
Estimated Total Event Budget: $2,134
Estimated Revenue Opportunities
Specialty Coffee Drinks: $5.50 each
Food Items & Pastries, Starting at $6 each
Flight Fuel Cafe Coffee Bags: $15 each
Sample Revenue Projection (Based on 50 Guests)
Coffee Drinks: 35 sold
Estimated Sales: $192.50
Food Items: 20 sold
Estimated Sales: $120
Coffee Bags: 10 sold
Estimated Sales: $150
Projected Event Revenue$462.50
Estimated Net Event Cost
Total Event Budget: $2,134
Estimated Revenue: -$462.50
Estimated Remaining Cost$1,671.50
Budget Notes
Signage costs include flyers, table signage, welcome signage and QR code promotional materials.
Revenue projections are estimates and may increase with higher attendance or additional merchandise sales.
The refundable incidental fee may reduce final event costs if returned in full by the venue.
Additional sponsorships or partnerships could help offset overall event expenses.
Accessibility & Risk Management Considerations
Accessibility Considerations
The Hangar Sessions is designed to provide an inclusive and welcoming experience for all guests and performers. El Venue will maintain accessible entry points, clear walkways and flexible seating arrangements to accommodate guests with mobility needs. Event information, schedules and performer sign-ups will be shared digitally through Instagram and Facebook to improve accessibility and communication. Staff and volunteers will also be available throughout the event to assist attendees as needed.
Risk Management Considerations
To ensure a safe and organized environment, The Hangar Sessions will utilize two on-site police officers for crowd management, entrance monitoring and guest safety throughout the event. Staff will oversee performer coordination, emergency communication and venue operations, while A/V equipment and walkways will be arranged to minimize trip hazards and congestion. A contingency fund has also been included in the event budget to address unexpected operational or safety-related needs.
Site Layout
Entrance & Check-In Area
Main entrance with welcome signage and event information
Guest check-in table near entry point
QR code signage for performer registration and social media engagement
Performance Area
Central stage/performance space positioned for maximum audience visibility
Standing speaker and microphone setup adjacent to the stage area
Designated performer waiting area near the dressing room
Audience Seating
10 tables arranged throughout the venue with four chairs per table
Open walking paths maintained between seating areas for accessibility and crowd movement
Additional standing-room space near the rear and side areas of the venue
Food & Beverage Station
Flight Fuel Cafe coffee and food service station positioned along the perimeter to reduce congestion
Merchandise and coffee bag sales located adjacent to beverage service
Dressing Room
Dedicated backstage dressing room for performers and event staff preparation
Staff & Security Placement
Two police officers are stationed near the entrance and the general audience area for crowd monitoring and safety
Event staff positioned at check-in, stage support and beverage service areas
Emergency & Accessibility Considerations
Clearly marked exits and unobstructed emergency pathways
Accessible seating areas incorporated into table layout
Staff available to assist guests with accessibility needs throughout the event
Media and Promotion Strategy
Pre-Event Promotion Strategy
Paid Media
Sponsored Social Posts:
Launch targeted advertisements on Facebook and Instagram beginning 3–4 weeks before the May 7 launch. Ads will target young adults, college students, creatives and local music lovers in the Florence and Pee Dee area, highlighting live performances, coffee specials and the overall atmosphere of The Hangar Sessions.
Earned Media
Media Interviews & Local Coverage:
Coordinate interviews and event mentions with local radio stations such as WJMX, WYNN and WEGX, community publications and lifestyle outlets to position The Hangar Sessions as a new creative and cultural experience in Florence that supports local artists and community engagement.
Shared Media
Social Engagement:
Post regular updates, performer spotlights, rehearsal clips, countdown graphics and behind-the-scenes content across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and X leading up to the event. Encourage performers and attendees to share content and tag Flight Fuel Cafe to increase organic reach.
Owned Media
Website & Event Information:
Create a dedicated event page featuring event details, performer sign-up information, FAQs and venue information for El Venue.Email Campaigns:
Begin with a “Save the Date” email announcement approximately 3–4 weeks before launch, followed by weekly reminder emails featuring performer announcements, drink specials and event updates leading into May 7.
Messaging Plan for The Hangar Sessions
Subject: Save the Date! The Hangar Sessions at El Venue — May 7, 2026
Body: Hello Florence!
Flight Fuel Cafe is excited to invite you to the launch of The Hangar Sessions on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at El Venue!
Join us from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. for an unforgettable evening of live music, poetry, comedy and storytelling featuring talented local artists from across the Pee Dee area. Enjoy handcrafted coffee drinks, specialty menu items and a welcoming atmosphere built around creativity and community.
Whether you want to perform or simply enjoy the vibes, The Hangar Sessions is the perfect place to connect, unwind and support local talent.
📍 El Venue
⏰ 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
🎤 Performer sign-ups begin at 5:45 p.m.
Bring your friends, grab a coffee and experience Florence’s newest creative showcase. We can’t wait to see you there!
Stay connected for performer announcements and event updates on social media.
Best,
Flight Fuel Cafe
Social Media Posts
Your Thursday night plans just cleared for takeoff ✈️🎶
Join us for The Hangar Sessions at El Venue featuring local artists, handcrafted drinks and nonstop creative energy.
📍 May 7 | 6:30–9 PM
🎤 Open mic performances all night.🎶 Calling all musicians, poets, comedians and storytellers!
Take the stage at The Hangar Sessions hosted by Flight Fuel Cafe at El Venue on May 7.
Great coffee. Local talent. Good vibes.
Who’s grabbing the mic first? 👀Hashtags: #TheHangarSessions #FlightFuelCafe #FlorenceSC #SupportLocalArtists#OpenMicNight #LiveLocal
Tagline: “Where Local Talent Takes Flight.”
Media Outreach Plan
Reflection
Creating this video allowed me to effectively communicate my ideas while combining visuals, structure, and presentation techniques to keep the audience engaged. I felt the video successfully reflected my communication style and helped me present information in a way that was both organized and relatable. Throughout the process, I learned the importance of pacing, audience engagement, and clear messaging when creating digital content. I also recognized areas where I can continue improving, such as becoming more confident on camera and refining transitions between points. Overall, this project helped strengthen my presentation and storytelling skills while showing how video can be used to connect with an audience in a creative and impactful way.
Earned Media Approach
Our strategy for The Hangar Sessions focuses on building authentic relationships with local journalists, community outlets and lifestyle creators to generate meaningful coverage around Flight Fuel Cafe’s live arts initiative. Personalized media pitches and press materials will highlight the event’s support of local talent, creative culture and community engagement in Florence. Through compelling storytelling, performer spotlights and high-quality visuals, the campaign will position The Hangar Sessions as a unique cultural experience that resonates with local audiences and encourages ongoing media interest.
Press Release Headline and First Paragraph
Flight Fuel Cafe Launches “The Hangar Sessions” to Spotlight Local Talent at El Venue
FLORENCE, S.C. (May 1, 2026) — Flight Fuel Cafe is bringing live music, poetry, comedy and storytelling to the forefront with the launch of The Hangar Sessions, a new open mic experience debuting May 7 at El Venue. Designed to celebrate local creativity and community connection, the event will provide artists across the Pee Dee region with a welcoming platform to perform while guests enjoy handcrafted coffee, specialty drinks and an intimate live entertainment atmosphere.
Media Outlets and Pitch List
Post and Courier: Local newspaper with a statewide reach
Morning News: Community newspaper covering Pee Dee area news
WPDE-TV: Local news station
WYNN-FM: Radio station specializing in R&B and hip-hop for over 60 years
WJMX-FM: Radio station specializing in rock and pop music
Pitch Angle
Flight Fuel Cafe is launching The Hangar Sessions on May 7 at El Venue, a new live open mic experience designed to spotlight local musicians, poets, comedians and storytellers across the Pee Dee region. The event combines live entertainment, community engagement and local culture in a welcoming coffeehouse atmosphere, creating a fresh platform for emerging talent and young creatives in Florence. With growing interest in community-centered experiences and support for local artists, The Hangar Sessions offers a strong human-interest and lifestyle story that aligns with audiences interested in arts, entertainment and regional culture.
Community Partnerships
Potential community partnerships for The Hangar Sessions include local colleges and universities such as Francis Marion University and Florence-Darlington Technical College to engage student performers and audiences, as well as arts organizations like Florence Little Theatre and ArtFields to strengthen ties within the regional creative community. Media partnerships with WPDE-TV, WJMX-FM and WYNN-FM can help increase visibility and event promotion, while collaborations with local businesses, musicians, poets and content creators can support audience growth, performer recruitment and community engagement.
How will these partnerships help?
These partnerships will help The Hangar Sessions expand its reach, attract performers and increase community engagement by connecting Flight Fuel Cafe with established local audiences and creative networks. Colleges and arts organizations can provide student and emerging artist participation, while media outlets can increase event visibility through interviews, event coverage and on-air promotion. Local businesses and influencers can support cross-promotion, social media exposure and sponsorship opportunities, helping build long-term attendance and strengthen Flight Fuel Cafe’s reputation as a community-centered creative hub.
Event Registration and Follow-Up Strategy
Guests and performers can register for The Hangar Sessions online through Flight Fuel Cafe’s event page or by scanning QR codes displayed on promotional materials and signage. Performer sign-ups will also be available in person beginning at 5:45 p.m. on event night, on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration will collect basic contact information, performance type and social media handles to assist with event coordination and promotional spotlights.
Follow-Up Communication
Following The Hangar Sessions, attendees and performers will receive follow-up communication through email and social media thanking them for participating and supporting the event.
Recap content, including photos, videos and performer highlights, will be shared across Instagram, Facebook and TikTok to maintain engagement and encourage repeat attendance.
Guests will also be invited to provide feedback through a short survey and receive updates about future Hangar Sessions events, performer opportunities and upcoming Flight Fuel Cafe programming.
Metrics For Success
The success of The Hangar Sessions will be measured through several quantitative metrics to evaluate audience engagement, event reach and overall performance.
Quantitative Metrics
Key metrics include total event attendance, number of performer sign-ups and repeat guest participation from week to week.
Social media performance will also be tracked through post reach, engagement rates, video views, shares and follower growth across Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.
Additional metrics include food and beverage sales, merchandise purchases, email sign-ups, website traffic and the number of media placements or community partnerships generated through promotional efforts.
Qualitative Metrics
Qualitative success for The Hangar Sessions will be measured through audience and performer experience, community impact and brand perception.
This includes guest feedback on the overall atmosphere, perceived inclusivity and comfort of the space, and the quality and diversity of performances.
Performer testimonials will be used to assess whether the event feels supportive, professional and valuable for creative expression.
Social media sentiment across Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook will also be evaluated to gauge emotional response, shareability and community excitement.
Additional indicators include the tone of media coverage, partner feedback, and whether the event is perceived as a meaningful cultural addition to Florence's creative scene.