The Gathering

I graduated Auburn University with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and a minor in Agriculture Business. My classes consisted of animal nutrition, animal breeding, biochemistry and farm management among many others. I learned so much and am thankful I had the opportunity to have so many hands on experiences instead of lecture after lecture in a classroom. The first two years I worked for AFC, I helped farmers with crops, chemicals and animal health in our co-op stores, but when I took the job as AFC’s social media specialist, I had no idea what I was getting into. Yes I have a personal Facebook and Instagram page, but I didn’t know how to work in the marketing field, especially for one of the largest agriculture companies in the Southeast.

I have attended a variety of sessions and classes on marketing and social media in the past year to gain knowledge and experience in the field, but the absolute best decision I made was to attend an event put on by Ranch House Designs called, “The Gathering” that took place in Wharton, Texas. I signed up in June and anxiously waited for September to get here. I had heard so many good things about past events put on by this company, not to mention RHD made sure we were ready for this one. They were so welcoming and excited and made this event seem like a gathering of friends, which is what it turned out to be.

I arrived Thursday afternoon in Houston, Texas and drove an hour west to Wharton where we met at Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant for the welcome dinner. A college friend, Ashley Grant, works for RHD so it was great to catch up and see her. I also met a couple of girls that are currently Ag Communication majors at Auburn. Of course the food was wonderful and getting introduced to the staff and speakers made the transition of the conference easy.

Friday morning began at the beautiful Heritage Cattle Company. We heard from multiple speakers on digital marketing, social media, print ads, photography and more. They covered so much information and had hands on examples making us feel like we were actually putting to use what they were teaching before we even left. I saw some of the most amazing animal agriculture photographs by world renowned photographers, beautiful print ads and websites by the talented RHD team and sunset wedding pictures from the most humble couple that started out as animal science graduates also.

I can’t say enough good things about Ranch House Designs and The Gathering. Since getting back to Alabama, with a grateful heart and a lot of new ideas, I have put to use many of their tips and look forward to using many more in the coming months. I can't wait for the next RHD event, because you better believe I'll be there! 

xoxo

Samantha