Hey Edmonds! My name is Reese Borden and I am a rising senior at Towson University—right outside of Baltimore, MD—studying communications and marketing while also playing on their women’s soccer team. I landed a summer internship here in Edmonds, WA working for Workhorse Coworking contributing to their sales, online and in-person marketing/communications, and community outreach.
The valuable knowledge and new perspectives I have gained, not only on business but on life, have been irreplaceable. I am a born and raised East Coast girl (Virginia) and spending the summer in the PNW has allowed me to explore outside my bubble, finding out more about myself and life away from my norm, each day. Edmonds couldn’t have been a better spot to spend my summer working and learning as the community truly feels like a family with everyone supporting one another. Edmonds really is one-of-a-kind and the opportunities to thrive are endless.
An Edmonds Kind of Fourth of July
Wow! This town sure does know how to put on one heck of a parade! While I’m from a similar kind of small town back east, I quickly realized that it does not compare to this—the Edmonds way.
As more than 18,000 people crowded the streets of Edmonds and over 100 parade entries made their way into their spots, it felt like something out of a movie. To see all of the different businesses, organizations, and community members (some pictured here) from Edmonds and nearby areas come together created a feeling like no other. It really is the people that make the place, and that is especially true here in Edmonds.
How I Helped Workhorse Prep for The Fourth of July Parade
Sitting down with the marketing team, our goal was to promote Workhorse in a way that would leave a lasting effect. Being in a small town, we knew that sharing updates and news by word of mouth would be an effective start to our campaign in addition to the consistent social media posts and reminders. During our lunch breaks, morning coffee runs, and office walk-throughs, we made an effort to let others know about Workhorse’s spot in the parade and all the fun that came along with attending the Fourth of July Parade.
As a college student, I pay attention to anything free 🙂 So, periodically throughout the day and during breaks, I stamped 500 Workhorse goodie bags—filled with candy, pens, as well as free day passes—to hand out before the start of the parade. What’s better than free candy and a full day of utilizing our awesome space?
Building The Workhorse Coworking Float
While I’m used to a 7:00 am start to my workday, early morning parade float assembly is not my everyday routine. Despite the early hours, Workhorse employees, friends, and family all happily arrived ready to help and eager for the day ahead. Adding minor additions here and there made for a smooth process as we were able to put together the pieces from last year’s parade.
As the big wood pieces were screwed together and the furniture was placed in position, some much-needed red, white, and blue accents were added throughout—banners, ribbon, and flags. The decked-out float was ready for action!
Walking In The Edmonds Fourth of July Parade
As I made my way from the Workhorse building to where our float was in line, my jaw dropped as I passed the thousands of chairs lined up along the road, already claiming their spot. The sun was shining and red, white, and blue filled the streets of Downtown Edmonds as smiling faces began filing in.
To go to a parade is one thing, but to be in a parade—especially one this size—is another. Excitement and some nerves took over as I was anticipating walking the parade hoping to successfully promote Workhorse after our many shared hours of preparation for this event. As the floats began to move forward and the parade began, the exhilaration took over. Cheering and laughter could be heard from towns over. Cheerful eyes watched as our float went by and the sound of the Dancing Horses was growing near. As we handed out bags and candy, waved to the crowds of people, and led the magic site of the horses dancing to the beat of the instruments, everything felt just right. Even though I’m not from around here, I felt like I was a part of this one-of-a-kind community.
Want to see more from the parade? Check out Workhorse’s Instagram as well as the Workhorse Intern page to see more content, and be sure to give us a follow! We’d love to see your awesome photos, too. Tag us on Instagram or send us a DM with your content! What was your favorite part about the fourth?
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