About 20 bloggers and social media gurus from around the Baton Rouge area gathered around a table to discuss the future of Baton Rouge’s presence in the world of social media. The group came together in response to a Twitter and Facebook all call for area bloggers for a “meet-n-greet” hosted by Visit Baton Rouge.

The meeting provided attendees with the opportunity to meet other bloggers and put a face to their twitter handle. “Visit Baton Rouge assembled the best bloggers in Baton Rouge to discuss our digital future. Social media is the new wave of communication and Baton Rouge is on top of tying bloggers and social media nuts into the promotion strategy for the RedStick.” Jay Ducote, with www.biteandbooze.com, said about the meeting. The group discussed ways to increase traffic to blogs, opportunities for cross promotion and build a stronger presence for Baton Rouge in social media.

The group consisted of representatives from news agencies to professional travel bloggers. Some blogs include www.shannonlane.com, www.biteandbooze.com, www.cuisinerouge.com,  www.deliciouslygolden.blogspot.com,  and www.mediamixbag.com.

From this initial meeting, the group hopes to form a social media organization dedicated to the professional development and continuing education of social media professionals. The next meeting is scheduled for April 29, 2010 with details on location to follow soon.

“Social media is all about being social. I’m excited that Visit Baton Rouge took the initiative to gather together the area’s new media personalities so that we can work together in showcasing our wonderful city to potential visitors and business investors. We’re so much more tech savvy than people realize. This is the beginning of a new era – not only for our city, but our state.” Shannon Lane, www.shannonlane.com, said.