Making the Leap: How Moving from Boston to Orlando Transformed Integral Marketing & Advertising

Written from the perspective of our Founder and CEO, Yeliza Centeio

 

Relocation is a monumental decision for any individual or business, and especially for those with a young family, marked by a blend of excitement, anticipation, and a fair share of challenges. For me, the journey of moving my business, Integral Marketing & Advertising and my family, from the bustling city of Boston to the vibrant and sunny Orlando, Florida, was not just a change of scenery but a strategic move towards growth, diversity, and empowerment.

 

History

I lived in Orlando in the early 2000s with my now husband. At a young age we moved from our parents home in Massachusetts to Florida with nothing more than dreams and aspirations. At the time, we had been dating for a little over a year and though we were scared to start over with no resources, we were excited about the unknown. 

First came Ft. Lauderdale where I got my jump start in advertising working at Zimmerman Advertising. Two years later, we drove three hours up the Florida turnpike to pursue a job offer at Ypartnership (formerly YPB&R) in Orlando. That was where we both fell in love with the city and vowed to call it our forever home. 

We got engaged at the old Amway Arena during a Celtics at Magic game, a perfect setting for a couple that shares a love for Basketball and a love for their home team, the Boston Celtics. Business at Ypartnership was shaky with talks of layoffs, paired with an engagement, that meant marriage, a home, and kids, and it left us wondering if we should pack up and move back ‘home’ to Boston where we would have family support for the journey ahead. 

And so we moved back but our hearts remained in Orlando. As the years went by, we would talk about our desire to move back but the timing and reasonings never felt right; until it finally did. 

 

Embracing the Warmth of Orlando

Orlando is often celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, a characteristic that extends beyond its world-renowned tourist attractions to embrace businesses and entrepreneurs. This city exudes a sense of community and support that is palpable from the moment you arrive. For Integral Marketing & Advertising, the move meant immersing ourselves in a richly diverse cultural tapestry, which not only enriched our team’s perspectives but also expanded our creative horizons.

The decision to relocate was influenced heavily by Orlando’s burgeoning business environment. The city is a hub for innovation and growth, offering a fertile ground for businesses looking to expand their reach. The dynamic and diverse economic landscape of Orlando presented us with untapped markets and new audiences eager for the fresh and innovative approaches to marketing and advertising that Integral is known for.

 

A Hub for Women Empowerment

One of the most compelling aspects of Orlando, and a stark contrast to our experiences in Boston, is the city’s focus on women empowerment. Orlando is home to numerous initiatives, networks, and organizations dedicated to supporting women in business. These platforms offer resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities that are invaluable for women entrepreneurs and business leaders.

In Boston, while opportunities for women in business exist, the competition and traditional business structures can sometimes create barriers to entry and growth. In Orlando, I found the environment to be more inclusive and supportive of women aiming to break the glass ceiling. The city’s commitment to fostering an empowering ecosystem for women has been instrumental in the growth and success of Integral Marketing & Advertising.

 

A Diverse and Inclusive Community

Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of Orlando’s charm. The city’s demographic makeup is a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds, making it a rich source of inspiration and creativity for businesses. For a marketing and advertising firm like Integral, this diversity is a treasure trove of insights and ideas that inform our campaigns and strategies, enabling us to connect with a broader audience on a deeper level.

The inclusive nature of Orlando’s business community has also opened doors to collaborations and partnerships that were previously beyond our reach. The synergy between different industries and the collaborative spirit in Orlando have been pivotal in driving our business forward.

 

The Road Ahead

The journey from Boston to Orlando has been transformative for Integral Marketing & Advertising. The move was not without its challenges, but the rewards have far outweighed the obstacles. Orlando has provided us with a vibrant, supportive, and dynamic environment where our business has not only grown but thrived.

As we look to the future, we are excited about the endless possibilities that Orlando offers. The city’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and women empowerment aligns perfectly with our values and mission at Integral Marketing & Advertising. We are proud to be part of this community and are eager to contribute to its growth and prosperity.

The decision to move Integral Marketing & Advertising from Boston to Orlando has been a pivotal chapter in our story. It’s a testament to the power of embracing change, seeking out new opportunities, and being part of a community that values diversity and empowerment. Orlando has welcomed us with open arms, and we are committed to growing and thriving in this vibrant city.