AAF Roanoke

Jingle & Mingle: AAF Holiday Bash
2025-12-11 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Twisted Track Brewpub, 523 Shenandoah Ave NW, Roanoke, 24016
Jingle & Mingle: AAF Holiday Bash

It’s the most wonderful time of the year — and we’re celebrating AAF Roanoke–style! Join us on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. for a festive evening of brews, bites, and bright company at Twisted Track Brewpub.

Enjoy holiday treats, great conversation, and our fan-favorite Ugly Sweater Contest (so don’t hold back — the tackier, the better!).

Whether you’ve been naughty, nice, or just busy creating all year long, this is your chance to relax, reconnect, and raise a glass to another successful year in the ad world.

RSVP below and let’s Jingle & Mingle!

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CompanyTicket/RSVP(Required)Ad 2 Member – FREEAAF Member – FREEStudent – FREENon-Member – FREETotal

Headshot Happy Hour with Ad2 Roanoke + Get2KnowNoke
2025-11-20 17:30 - 19:30 | The BiblioPub, 416 Campbell Ave SW, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, United States
Headshot Happy Hour with Ad2 Roanoke + Get2KnowNoke Thursday, November 20, from 5:30 – 7:30 pm@ The BiblioPub

Ad2 Roanoke and Get2KnowNoke are excited to invite you to our Headshot Happy Hour at The BiblioPub on Thursday, November 20, from 5:30–7:30 PM! In the era of social media and LinkedIn, first impressions happen long before you step through the door for a job interview or meet with a client. That’s exactly why a professional headshot is more important than ever. Headshots will be taken by Lewis Edwards Photography, a Roanoke-based headshot photographer, who will be offering quick, professional mini-sessions (around 5 minutes each) starting at 5:30 PM.

Reserve your slot by filling out the form on the event page that is linked! Get2KnowNoke followers will also receive a special discount! Be sure to sign up for their newsletter to receive the code.

Pricing:• $10 for Ad2 and AAF members (must receive a discount code)• $15 for Get2KnowNoke followers (must receive a discount code)• $20 for non-members

Headshots typically cost between $150–$300, so this is a great opportunity to look professional at a fraction of the cost.

While headshots are being taken, enjoy networking with other professionals in the advertising and media fields during our happy hour. The BiblioPub will have its bar open for drink purchases, offering beer, wine, tea, and coffee, and we’ll have complimentary snacks available as well.

Even if you don’t plan to get a headshot, come out and join us, it’s a great way to connect and support our local organizations!

Headshot Happy Hour Registration

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Morning Meet Up
2025-11-13 07:30 - 09:00 | Albemarle Bakery & Coffee House, 203 Albemarle Ave SW, Virginia, United States
Morning Meet Up

Join AAF Roanoke for a casual morning of networking, coffee, and community connection at Albemarle Bakery & Coffee House (203 Albemarle Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016) on Thursday, November 13, from 7:30–9:00 AM.

Start your day with coffee and conversation, meet fellow advertising and creative professionals, and the first 5 folks to arrive will enjoy coffee on us!

We’ll also be collecting donations to support Local Office on Aging—your generosity helps make a difference in our community.

Stop by, say hello, and make new connections before you head into the rest of your day!

Donation Needed:

Help support the Local Office on Aging by bringing any of the following items:

Toiletries

Incontinence undergarments

Ensure

Canned meats (tuna, chicken)

Hearty soups and stews

Individual packs of peanut butter crackers

Macaroni & cheese cups

Mashed potato cups

We can’t wait to kick off the morning with great coffee and conversation.Let us know you’re coming by completing the form below!

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CompanyTicket/RSVP(Required)Ad 2 Member – FREEAAF Member – FREEStudent – FREENon-Member – FREETotal

Roanoke Ghost Tour
2025-10-29 00:00 - 2025-10-31 23:59
Journey through the uncanny history of the Roanoke Valley on a walking ghost tour. Three tours nightly, Oct. 29-31.

Advertising Horror Stories
2025-10-21 17:30 - 19:30 | Big Lick Brewing Company, 409 Salem Ave SW,, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016
Ever had a project that totally went off the rails? Or an idea that seemed brilliant… until it wasn’t? We’ve all been there.

On October 21 at Big Lick Brewing Company, we’re bringing together a panel of local advertising pros to share their scariest, funniest, and most cringe-worthy stories from the industry. From campaigns that flopped to budgets that vanished into thin air, these are the kinds of tales you’ll never hear in a case study or awards show speech.

It’s a night of good beer, good company, and some seriously spooky behind-the-scenes confessions just in time for Halloween.

Our Featured Storytellers

Meredith Carty

Meredith Carty is the Founder and Principal Designer of Jones Street Creative, a Roanoke-based “brand repair shop” known for sharp strategy and award-winning logo design. With experience on both the brand and agency sides across industries like healthcare, education, and the creative sector, she brings a unique perspective on how organizations connect with their audiences. Meredith’s work has been featured on Forbes.com, Dwell.com, and PBS’s Art21. A mom of two boys, she’s a master multitasker who knows a thing or two about creative problem-solving, perfect for a night of stories about when things don’t go according to plan.

Brian Yohn

Brian Yohn is a senior graphic designer at Virginia Tech with more than 20 years of experience spanning agency work, creative leadership at Virginia Tech, and a two-year remote stint with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. A designer, educator, and tinkerer at heart, Brian balances big ideas with hands-on problem-solving. Outside of work, he wrangles two teenagers, a flock of chickens, and too many cats, a daily masterclass in patience and adaptability that makes him well-equipped to share a few design horror stories of his own.

Justin Combs

Justin Combs is currently an advertising professor of practice in the School of Communication at Virginia Tech. He has planned and executed multi-million-dollar media campaigns for hundreds of Arby’s restaurants across the country, led Bardstown Bourbon Company’s first national campaign, and contributed quiz content for two Chipotle IQ digital trivia games (both went viral). He’s weathered his fair share of advertising mishaps and dealt with more than a few monster clients along the way.

Tickets

🎟️ $20 per personYour ticket includes:

One drink to sip while you listen

A Halloween goodie bag to take home

Members, non-members, friends—all are welcome.

Registration

Space is limited, so please register to save your spot!

Advertising Horror Stories

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Authenticity in Action: Latino Voices in Media & Marketing
2025-09-30 12:00 - 13:00
Join us Tuesday, September 30, at noon, for a meaningful discussion about the role the Latino community plays in the advertising and media. Our panelists will share their backgrounds, showcase examples of inclusive campaigns, and examine how local agencies can better serve the growing Hispanic community in Roanoke. Whether you’re in marketing, media, or simply appreciate authentic storytelling, this event will offer fresh perspectives and practical ideas.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025

When: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Where: Online via Zoom

Meet Our Panelists

Mercedes Barba

Mercedes is the founder of Mercedes Barba & Media LLC. A Latina entrepreneur, PR expert, and mom, Mercedes helps founders, creators, and financial leaders land features in outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, and Fast Company. She blends storytelling and strategy to amplify voices, grow businesses, and champion representation in media.

Ana Morales

Ana serves as the Art Director for Roanoke Magazine, earned an MFA degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a BFA from James Madison University, where she studied studio art and art education. Morales has exhibited her art locally and nationally for the past two decades. Ana currently lives in Roanoke with her husband and stepson and has a baby boy on the way!

Brenda Prieto

Originally from Mexico City, Brenda came to Roanoke as an international student and has since built a dynamic career in marketing and communications. She now serves as PR, Marketing & Social Media Manager at the City of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority and leads Ad 2 Roanoke as president.

Brenda’s passion for storytelling, community, and uplifting diverse voices makes her an inspiring part of our conversation on authenticity in advertising.

What You’ll Experience

This isn’t just another lunch break, it’s your chance to:

Hear powerful stories from local Latinos and Latinas shaping advertising and media.

See campaigns in action that prove inclusive work makes a difference

Discover fresh perspectives on connecting with Roanoke’s growing Hispanic community

Walk away inspired with practical ideas you can put to use right away

Come hungry for lunch, and leave hungry to create change.

Cost of Tickets

Free for Ad 2 and AAF Roanoke members

$10 for non-members

Bingo on Tap
2025-08-19 18:00 - 20:30 | Big Lick Brewing Company, 409 Salem Ave SW,, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016
Bingo on Tap

Kick off the new AAF Roanoke year with us at Big Lick Brewing! Enjoy a night of networking, music, and fun as we bring you Music Bingo with plenty of prizes up for grabs. Test your music knowledge, sip on a cold drink, and connect with fellow advertising and marketing professionals in the area.

You’ll also get the chance to meet the AAF Roanoke Board, learn more about what’s coming this year, and grow your network in a laid-back, fun setting.

Music Bingo, networking, and craft brews… what more could you want?

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM (Music Bingo starts at 6:30 PM)

Location: Big Lick Brewing, 409 Salem Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016

Everyone is WELCOMED! Let us know you’re coming. Register below!

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CompanyTicket/RSVP(Required)Ad 2 Member – FREEAAF Member – FREEStudent – FREENon-Member – FREETotal

Real-World AI: How Marketing Agencies and Teams Are Putting It to Work
2025-07-23 12:00 - 13:00
AI is no longer a buzzword—it’s a business tool that’s rapidly reshaping how marketing agencies and teams operate, collaborate, and create.

Join us Wednesday, July 23, at 12 PM for a free Lunch & Learn webinar and get an inside look at how two agency leaders are taking artificial intelligence from theory to practice:

Raki Wright Clements, Owner & Digital Strategy at The O’Connor Group Ryan McBurney, Managing Partner and VP of Marketing and Fundraising at Interactive Strategies

In this engaging session, Raki and Ryan will share how their teams are actively operationalizing AI across departments—from creative and strategy to project management and client service. They’ll share the tools they’re using, the processes they’ve built, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to deepen your agency’s approach to AI, you’ll walk away with real-world insights and practical ideas to bring back to your team.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025

When: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Where: Online via Zoom

What You’ll Learn:

How real agencies are using AI right now

Specific tools and platforms they rely on

The processes they’ve built to streamline work

Common challenges (and how to overcome them)

Tips to start or evolve your own team’s AI integration

Cost of Tickets

Free for Ad 2 and AAF Roanoke members

$10 for non-members

Gen Z to CMO: Real Talk from Marketing Pros
2025-07-17 12:00 - 13:00
Fresh out of college and wondering what’s next? Ready to level up your career right here in the Roanoke Valley? Don’t miss your chance to connect with some of Roanoke’s top marketing minds in a LIVE webinar built just for rising professionals like you! Whether you’re unsure where to begin or ready to make bold moves, our expert panel of seasoned marketers is here to guide you, inspire you, and answer your biggest career questions — no fluff, just real advice.

🎯 This is your moment. 📍 This is your city. 🔥 This is your future.

👉 Register now and step confidently into the next chapter of your marketing journey.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025

When: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Where: Online via Zoom

What to Expect:

Real talk from Roanoke’s top marketing pros

A candid conversation about navigating your early career

Tips on standing out in today’s competitive job market

Honest takes on hot topics like AI, resumes, and real-world skills

Live Q&A with the panel, ask anything, get real answers

Encouragement to launch (and grow!) your career right here in the Roanoke Valley

Plus, a recording will be available after the event

Cost of Tickets

Free for Ad2 and AAF Roanoke members

$10 for non-members

Ballpark Bash
2025-06-05 18:30 - 21:00 | Carilion Clinic Field at Salem Memorial Ballpark, 1008 Texas St, Salem, VA 24153, Salem, Virginia, 24153, United States
Ballpark Bash

Join us for a summer evening of baseball, brews, and great company at Ballpark Bash, our group outing to see the Salem Red Sox!

We’ve secured spots in the Drink Rails section and a special discounted ticket rate just for our crew. That means awesome views, plenty of space to mingle, and easy access to your favorite ballpark bites and beverages. It’s the perfect way to connect with familiar and new faces, unwind after work, and root for the home team.

What to Expect

Reserved seating in the Drink Rails area

Networking and fun with the AAF Roanoke crew

Classic ballpark food + drinks available for purchase

A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for all

When: Thursday, June 5, starting at 6:35 PM

Where: Carilion Clinic Field at Salem Memorial Ballpark (1008 Texas St, Salem, VA 24153)

Cost: $10.91/ticket

⚾ Don’t miss this chance to mix business with a little ballgame fun. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the snacks and socializing, we’d love to see you there!

Reserve Your Seat Now

Tickets are limited, so grab yours at our special group rate and join us at the ballpark:👉 Get Your Ticket Here

Kickball Tournament
2025-05-09 13:30 - 17:00
We’re (finally!) bringing the heat! Ad 2 & AAF Roanoke’s rescheduled Annual Kickball Tournament is on!

Originally postponed in the fall due to weather, this highly anticipated showdown is back and better than ever. Join us Friday, May 9 at River’s Edge Park for an afternoon of kickball, lawn games, cold drinks, and fun competition.

👇 Check out all the details below—and don’t wait to sign up! Questions? Reach out to in**@********ke.org.

Event Details

Friday, May 9 at River’s Edge Park

Single elimination format

2 games going on at once (lawn games and other activities will be available for teams not playing)

Guaranteed to play 2 games minimum

Each game will last 30 minutes

The winning team will receive a medal for each participant & 1 championship trophy.

Event Schedule

Kickball Tournament: 1:45 – 4:30 p.m. at River’s Edge Park

Awards Ceremony @ Starr Hill Pilot Brewery & Side Stage: 4:30 – 5 p.m.

After-Party Event @ Starr Hill: 5 p.m.

Cost of Tickets

Free Agent tickets are $25 each

Team Slots are $150 each (10-15 players) until 4/30, then the price increases to $200

Each participant in the event will receive:

1 drink ticket for a beverage at Starr Hill Brewery

Snacks and refreshments during the tournament

1 raffle ticket for a chance to win a basket of goodies

Each team’s MVP (chosen by the teams themselves) will receive 1 specially branded Ad 2 Roanoke kickball

A year’s worth of bragging rights & cool trophies for the Ad 2 & AAF Roanoke Kickball champions!

The winning team will also receive one FREE entry to the Western Virginia Advertising Awards!

Free Agent or Full Team Option: There will be up to 2 free agent teams, and 6 full team slots available. Each team must have a minimum of 10 players and a maximum of 15 players. If there are not enough free agents to make 2 teams, then those free agents will be combined into 1 team and another full team slot will open up. FAMILY MEMBERS AND FRIENDS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PLAY ON YOUR TEAMS!

This event is first come, first serve. A waiver will be sent to each participant/team captain and must be filled out by each participant before the beginning of the tournament.
