When the HSO decided to outsource its marketing and press, it was facing some serious challenges. Subscription and fundraising campaigns were behind schedule, while a stagnant economy was restraining consumer spending. During our first year working with the HSO, direct mail and advertising campaigns we developed increased subscription sales by 10% and single tickets sold per concert by almost three-fold. Individual giving also increased in both numbers of donors and values of gifts. At its annual meeting that year, the HSO gave us its Outstanding Business Partner award.