FWD | PR

Founded in 2017, FWD | PR is a public relations agency based in California, United States, that brings a focused, no-nonsense approach to communications. The agency was built by two Asian American women who collectively hold over three decades of experience in hospitality PR. Their founding philosophy is simple: cut through the noise, be direct, and avoid the corporate fluff that often dilutes authentic storytelling. This straight-shooting attitude defines how they operate, making them a distinct voice in the competitive PR landscape.

Specialist Expertise in Hospitality and Multicultural PR

FWD | PR has carved out a clear niche in hospitality PR, restaurant PR, and destination PR. Their team’s deep roots in this sector mean they understand the unique challenges of promoting everything from Michelin-starred chefs to independent eateries. They are particularly adept at representing concepts tied to Japanese, Vietnamese, and broader AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) narratives. This multicultural focus is not an afterthought but a core strength, allowing them to authentically amplify stories that might otherwise be overlooked. The agency’s work often blends public relations with content creation, photography, and social media management, ensuring that a brand’s visual and written identity are cohesive. For clients in the consumer internet and information technology & services sectors, FWD | PR applies the same strategic rigor, helping tech-driven food and hospitality concepts connect with their target audiences.

How They Apply Their Approach

The agency’s methodology revolves around partnership and narrative amplification. Rather than relying on boilerplate pitches, FWD | PR focuses on building genuine relationships with media and influencers. Their team is known for crafting customized campaigns that highlight a client’s passion and craft, whether that involves a far-flung travel destination or a scrappy spirit maker. They emphasize strategic partnerships and collaborations, leveraging their network to secure placements that drive real engagement. The agency’s work in social media and digital marketing complements traditional PR efforts, creating a 360-degree approach to visibility. FWD | PR’s leadership, rooted in their own experiences as Asian American women, brings a perspective that resonates with brands looking to tell inclusive, compelling stories. This is particularly valuable for clients in the consumer internet space, where authentic connection is key to standing out.

Services and Specialties

While FWD | PR tailors each engagement to the client’s needs, their core offerings typically include:

• Hospitality PR and restaurant PR, including media relations for chefs and food concepts
• Destination PR and travel storytelling for tourism boards and hotels
• Multicultural PR, with a focus on AAPI, Japanese, and Vietnamese narratives
• Social media management and content creation, including photography and videography
• Strategic partnerships and influencer collaborations
• Marketing and brand strategy for consumer internet and tech-enabled services
• Crisis communications and reputation management

These services are delivered with the agency’s hallmark directness, ensuring clients receive actionable advice and measurable results. FWD | PR’s team is skilled at adapting their approach for both large-scale campaigns and nimble, independent projects.

Who They Work With

FWD | PR is an excellent fit for food and hospitality brands that value authentic storytelling over corporate messaging. Their ideal clients include Michelin-starred restaurants, boutique hotels, destination marketing organizations, and independent spirit makers who want to share their craft with a wider audience. The agency also serves tech companies within the consumer internet and information technology & services sectors, particularly those with a food or hospitality angle. Given their multicultural expertise, they are especially well-suited for brands owned by or serving AAPI communities. Based in California, United States, FWD | PR is well-positioned to serve clients across the country, from the West Coast to national campaigns. Whether you are a chef launching a new concept, a destination seeking to attract travelers, or a startup looking to build buzz, the agency’s straight-talking, passionate team can help move your story forward. Their proven track record in hospitality PR, combined with their commitment to diversity and innovation, makes them a reliable partner for brands ready to stand out.