If you're obsessed with The Bachelorette, you may have noticed Becca and her suitors visited Virginia recently! This was a strategic marketing move that cost over half a million dollars.
ABC's The Bachelorette recently brought new meaning to the phrase “Virginia is for Lovers.” Current bachelorette Becca Kufrin visited the city of Richmond, Virginia, with her nine remaining suitors for a day of sweets, boat rides, and history. Although the group visited in April, the episode just aired on July 2.
Becca visited popular spots such as Sugar Shack Donuts, which closed for four hours for filming, along with The Veil Brewing Company and the RVA Trolley. The group of 10 even filmed a group date on the steps of the Virginia Capitol. Becca and one of the men ended their trip to Richmond with a concert from country star Morgan Evans at the Carpenter Theatre.
Courtesy of Home Away
This episode definitely made Richmond seem like a cute and quaint tourist destination, but it came at a cost. According to The Richmond Times-Dispatch, Virginia Tourism Corp. paid $536,130.38 for the show to film at the location -- $300,000 as a financial contribution to get ABC to film the episode and $236,130.38 for the costs of staying in Richmond.
In exchange for the $300,000, ABC used the slogan “Virginia is for Lovers” once in the episode, showed one shot of a LOVE sign and provided a promotional link to “Virginia is for Lovers” on their website.
“The Bachelorette has a massive audience of almost 6 million viewers per week,” explained Caroline Logan, director of communications with Virginia Tourism. “The show is always trending on social media. It was a fantastic opportunity for us to reach potential new travelers. And to reach millions, instead of thousands.”
While the advertisement comes at a high cost, the episode gave Virginia a lot of exposure. At least one dedicated Bachelorette fan has already booked a trip to follow in the show’s footprints. You do you, girl!
What do you think? Did you enjoy the Richmond episode? Let us know in the comments below!