Washington Tourism Development Authority is honing its public relations approach to draw more visitors.

On Thursday, WTDA announced its decision to hire the Raleigh-based tourism agency French/West/Vaughan to handle its creative work and PR, according to Lynn Wingate, tourism development director.

Wingate said WDTA is looking to focus heavily on these areas this year, and FWV specializes in them. FWV also has the capacity to keep track of tourism trends and returns on investments, she added.

The organization is still working with Greenville-based Eye Integrated Communications on the WTDA website, Wingate said.

“We selected FWV based on their knowledge and reputation within the tourism industry,” she said. “Within their organization, they have the capability of handling all of our needs.”

WTDA sent out a request for proposals, outlining a set budget of less than $30,000 for the project. Wingate said cost was an important part of choosing an agency, but it was also important to contract one that fit best with WTDA’s outlook.

“We are eager to see what strategies and creative narratives we come up with to help tell the story of Little Washington to more people than ever before,” Wingate stated in a press release.

According to the release, FWV is already working on a new advertising campaign to promote Washington as a place for day trips and overnight stays.

FWV already works with Tweetsie Railroad, High Gravity Adventures, both located in Blowing Rock, and Concord Hospitality Enterprises Company, the release stated.

“The charm of Little Washington is obvious from the minute you get there, and it is truly one of the places that makes eastern North Carolina so special,” said David Gwyn, FWV president, in the release. “Our goal is to tell the story about what a great place this town is to visit for young couples to empty nesters and everyone in between.”

Wingate said WTDA is still drafting plans and marketing concepts, and any additional expenses will be covered by the organization’s marketing budget.