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>BEHIND THE SCENES with The New Braunfels Scene by Sherry Hardwick
There is a lot for a groom to think about as his wedding day approaches: Do I remember where the ring is? I can’t believe she wants to marry me! Why is my best man wearing grey Adidas ankle socks with his suit?
But for Trey Daffin another interesting thought crossed his mind. As his future in-laws were preparing to come to New Braunfels for a few days leading up to the festivities, they were asking what website they should check that would have all the local info they needed. They wanted to know more about New Braunfels. They needed to know where to stay, where to eat, and what entertainment was going to be where. They needed the scoop on the New Braunfels scene, so to speak.
Fast-forward a year to the Comal County Fair Parade 2009. Sixth graders march proudly with their school band for the very first time. Two and three generations drive tractors shiny new and rusty old. Fire trucks. Politicians and Rodeo Queens wave royally. And what’s that funky float with Carlton Pride & Zion Reggae Band? Is that a big green bottle of beer? Wait a minute… hot guys and sexy girls in New Braunfels? Quick, get a snapshot on the cell phone so you can look it up later. Hmmmm… “The NB Scene”?
Daffin started his online magazine July 4, 2009 and looking back simply shakes his head and says, “I can now see how naïve I was.” He beat the pavement for months garnering interest in an alternative source of information about New Braunfels. “I had nothing to show anyone, but I had ideas. Did anyone else think this was a good idea? Was I nuts?”
Susie Russell of the Huisache Grill didn’t think he was nuts. “I was so excited about it. What a concept, beautifully put together and easy to use. The colors, the writing, the wonderful photographs- it portrays New Braunfels as the fun and exciting place that we are!” (And Trey gives a HUGE THANKS to Susie and Don and Lynn Forres at the Huisache Grill for being the first business to support The NB Scene!)
Too humble to admit that he is self-educated by pulling all-nighters with online tutorials, research and books, Daffin says his goals and format continue to evolve. "There are so many things I want to do. I have a notebook full of ideas." He is often frustrated when he finds out something happened after the fact. “I get contacted a lot after a business or organization holds an event and maybe they didn't get the turnout they expected. I want to be on the front end of this stuff. There are so many things going on in this town that don't get the publicity they deserve. But when we help an event or band or restaurant, it's great. The most gratifying phrases I hear are things like, 'I had no idea that was going on...' or 'We decided to go there after we saw your photos...!' It's good to know people are paying attention."
The NB Scene is now a place for smaller businesses and local artists to be showcased. Non Profit groups, benefits, and fundraisers are welcome to post events on the calendar. From large venues like Whitewater Amphitheater to the more underground likes of DJ b.read (Barrett Read), Daffin emphasizes that they all have value and should be heard. "I wanted to create a place where you could find the most interesting people, places and events in town. Let's face it, most places don't have huge advertising budgets. If you are interesting, give me a call - we can work something out. Let's come up in the world together (laughs)."
Website changes may be in store this year as content and participation increases. Readers will see more interactive opportunities to vote and comment on current events and issues. More live streaming video broadcasting is possible, in addition to archived materials and maybe even a print format. Never fear though. Daffin is keeping the artful edge The NB Scene readers have come to know and love.
And on this one-year anniversary, Daffin wants his readers to know one very important thing. He could not have done this without you. “Thank you New Braunfels! I have met a ton of interesting people this year and I have been really surprised by the huge numbers that absolutely LOVE New Braunfels. I'm talking die-hard, N.B. for life citizens. They are the movers and shakers that keep this town buzzing along. The NB Scene looks forward to a long and beautiful friendship!” |
