POMA 2024: Connecting Media Creatives in the Outdoors
As some of you may know, we travel for business. One of the many aspects of traveling is meeting with like-minded people with similar interests. The Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA) is no different. This year POMA held their annual meeting in South Carolina. Nestled in the beautiful outdoors of Pinewood, SC lies the South Carolina Waterfowl Association. Founded by David J. Wielicki in 1986, these grounds were the perfect backdrop and scenery for POMA’s annual event.
Filled with numerous sightseeing options such as field trips for fishing, historic grounds tours and even kayaking, all the attendees had an opportunity to check out at least one of these events to experience something on the campgrounds. Rob and I opted for the historic ground tour. Rich with history and how the land is constantly developing is amazing. David, the executive director, took us on the tour. There he took us to a grave site on the property that belongs to the Richardson Family, a family with deep roots in South Carolina. We also saw the long ranges for rifle and long shot sports, as well as clay shooting.
But, I want to speak about the powerful day-to-day events while at POMA. Every event had an intimate feel to it. The speed-networking was amazing. Having the chance to talk with approximately thirty reps from different brands, explore their needs, and pitch our vision was nice. We met creatives from all walks of life. We met with talented photographers, writers, and folks who are passionate about the outdoors. And THAT was incredibly refreshing.
Everyone from the staff to the attendees was passionate about the outdoors. Chef Danny and his team from Hieronymous Provisions provided the eats for all three days. We’re talking breakfast, lunch and dinner. It hands down was some of the most delicious food I’ve eaten in South Carolina.
You might be wondering, ok, what else was there that made the trip amazing? The content creation sessions allowed creators to collaborate and publish content immediately. Or the educational breakout sessions, which, for someone like me who isn't too savvy on things like bird shooting, were incredibly informational. Or the nightly networking sessions, where you could grab a drink and mingle with anyone and everyone if you wished. The experience was rich in human interaction and passion for spreading awareness of what the outdoors has to offer.
And last but not least, the Range Day. The range day was smooth, fun, and memorable. Seeing how other people shoot and what their interests are, as far as firearms, offers great insight into how broad the outdoors and gun space are. Taurus was in attendance, showcasing self-defense and everyday carry firearms. Kevin and Evan from Pulsar were there with long-range optics and thermals that provided some really fun shooting. The clay shooting was fun too. Especially when we, the attendees, were going up against each other just because.
All in all, it was an amazing trip. POMA is a great place for content creators, media professionals, and companies to attend. We’re already looking forward to next year's meeting. We’re grateful for the experience.
POMA 2024!
All the attendants picture ready!
About Cush
I love everything outdoors. I grew up in South Florida near the beach, as a city kid, that was our sense of the outdoors. With my newfound faith and fitness journey, I’m discovering the outdoors for an enriching life while experiencing nature. I’m an entrepreneur, a marketing professional, 2A advocate, Husband, and a father of 3.
Connect with me @Amazon Cush