Ester Venouziou (pronounced "Venouziou") is founder of LocalShops1.com, Tampa Bay's most active advocate for local independent businesses.

Known to hang out at coffee shops, Ester is frequently found chatting and brainstorming with creative, forward-thinking community leaders and business owners.

Ester's background in journalism (most recently at the Tampa Bay Times, formerly the St. Petersburg Times, from 2003-2011) brings a unique dimension to LocalShops1.com's marketing approach, including grassroots efforts, special events, social media marketing, business bootcamps and more.

A self-professed Facebook, Twitter and blogging junkie, Ester is also available for freelance writing and social media projects. She can be reached at ester@localshops1.com or 727-637-5586.