AAF Dubuque

09/03/2026

Our upcoming event is just around the corner, and you won't want to miss this opportunity to learn from a local success story.

Join Kyla Glendenning, owner of Dubuque Pottery Studio, as she shares how she grew her business to multiple six figures in revenue in less than a year, largely through strategic Facebook advertising.

In this session, Kyla will cover:
✅ The psychology behind ad creative that converts
✅ Common campaign settings that can make or break results
✅ Actionable steps you can take this week to launch or improve your ads
✅ Real-world lessons from both major brands and her own business

Whether you're marketing for clients, working in-house, or growing your own business, you'll walk away with practical insights you can apply immediately.

RSVP today before it's too late! We hope to see you there. https://aafdbq.org/events/

09/02/2026

What makes one piece of work rise to the top? What mistakes can hurt an otherwise great entry? And what do American Advertising Awards judges wish entrants knew before they hit submit?

Join AAF District 9 for American Advertising Awards: Inside the Judges’ Room, a behind-the-scenes conversation with past American Advertising Awards judges

Cost: FREE!

Date + Time: Thursday, September 24 at noon

Event Page:

Past American Advertising Awards judges share what makes work stand out, common entry mistakes and what they wish every entrant knew.

08/19/2026

📸 Thanks to everyone who joined us for a morning exploring the Millwork District with local photographer Sara McGovern!

From historic architecture and vibrant public art to hidden details and perfect pockets of light, Sara helped us see one of Dubuque's most photographed neighborhoods in a whole new way. Attendees captured fresh photos, picked up practical photography tips, connected with fellow creatives, and walked away inspired to look at familiar places differently.

A special thank you to Sara for sharing her talent and perspective, and to everyone who brought their curiosity, creativity, and cameras along for the walk. ✨

08/10/2026

📸 Reminder to RSVP! Join Sara McGovern Photography for a morning photo walk through the Millwork District. Learn new photography techniques, capture fresh content, and connect with fellow creatives.

RSVP: https://aafdbq.org/events/

08/07/2026

Leadership is never a solo effort.

Last month, we had the opportunity to bring together our outgoing and incoming AAF Dubuque Board of Directors for an evening of connection, conversation, and a smooth transition into the 2026–2027 year.

We're incredibly grateful to our outgoing board members for their time, dedication, and leadership that helped move our chapter forward. At the same time, we're excited to welcome our new board as we continue building opportunities for our members, strengthening our local marketing community, and creating meaningful programming throughout the year.

Here's to another year of creativity, collaboration, and growing together. We can't wait to show you what's ahead!

08/03/2026

🚀 What does it really take to grow a local business to six figures in less than a year, largely through Facebook Ads?

Join Kyla Glendenning, owner of Dubuque Pottery Studio, as she shares the strategy behind her success. Learn what makes ad creative convert, the campaign settings that matter most, and practical steps you can take this week to launch or improve your own ads.

Whether you're marketing for clients or growing your own business, you'll leave with actionable insights and a clearer understanding of what's possible when paid social is done with intention. 📈✨

RSVP - https://aafdbq.org/events/

07/31/2026

💙 THANK YOU, MARIAH! 💙

Some leaders leave an impact. Others leave a legacy.

Today, we celebrate Mariah Pellino as she concludes an incredible chapter of leadership with AAF Dubuque. Over the past five years—including an extraordinary two-year term as President—Mariah has helped shape our chapter into what it is today.

Under her leadership, AAF Dubuque:
✨ Launched the AMP'd Conference
🏆 Earned 1st Place in the AAF National Club Achievement Awards for Membership Development & Communications
🤝 Built stronger partnerships throughout the Dubuque community
📈 Grew and revitalized our membership
🎓 Expanded opportunities for students and emerging professionals
💙 Created a culture of collaboration, creativity, and connection that will continue for years to come

But beyond the milestones, Mariah has been a mentor, a champion for our creative community, and a leader who always encouraged us to think bigger.

While she's officially passing the gavel, we're grateful that this isn't goodbye. Mariah will continue serving AAF Dubuque as our Past President and serving on AAF District 9 board to help keep leading so many across our district; and we couldn't be more thankful for her continued guidance.

Please join us in celebrating Mariah by leaving a favorite memory, a word of appreciation, or a thank-you message in the comments below. 👇

From all of us at AAF Dubuque—thank you for your leadership, your passion, and the lasting impact you've made on our chapter. 💙

07/30/2026

Start your morning with coffee, creativity, and a fresh perspective on Dubuque. 📷

Join us with Sara McGovern Photography for a walking photography experience through the Millwork District. Whether you're shooting with a phone or a camera, you'll learn composition and portrait techniques, capture new content, and connect with other creatives along the way.

Come discover what makes the Millwork District one of Dubuque's most photographed destinations.

RSVP - https://aafdbq.org/events/

07/30/2026

🏆 National Recognition for AAF Dubuque!

We’re proud to share that AAF Dubuque has been awarded 1st Place in Membership Development & Communications (Division 4) in the 2026 American Advertising Federation National Club Achievement Competition.

This recognition reflects the work our board and volunteers have put into reconnecting and engaging our creative community while strengthening communication with our members. From launching a refreshed website and introducing monthly member newsletters to creating more opportunities for networking, education, and professional growth, our goal has been simple: build a stronger AAF Dubuque for everyone.

This award belongs to our members, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who continue to support our mission. Thank you for believing in what we’re building and helping make our club stronger each year.

We’re honored by this national recognition and excited to continue connecting, inspiring, and serving the advertising, marketing, and creative professionals throughout the Dubuque area.

Interested in getting involved? We’re always looking to grow our community! Whether you’re a student, young professional, nonprofit, freelancer, or seasoned industry leader, there’s a membership level designed for you. We’d love to welcome you to AAF Dubuque and help you connect with fellow creative professionals.

Learn more and become a member: https://aafdbq.org/membership/

Here’s to what’s next! 💙