Public relations (PR) is the strategic practice of managing and shaping the public image and reputation of individuals, organizations, or brands through effective communication. It involves crafting compelling messages, fostering positive relationships with the media and stakeholders, and addressing potential crises to build trust and credibility.

In Tennessee, a state known for its dynamic business environment and vibrant industries like music, healthcare, and manufacturing, several top PR companies excel in providing tailored solutions to clients. These firms leverage their expertise to help organizations connect with their audiences, promote their values, and navigate the complexities of modern communication landscapes. Below is a list of leading PR firms in Tennessee renowned for their services this past year…

1 - ZTPR

Unlike other publicity firms that concentrate on just one niche, ZTPR’s founder Zack Teperman and his associates represent a magnitude of people and businesses. From musicians and athletes to actors & influencers, to fortune 500 companies and technology start-ups, ZTPR works to ensure everyone who wants to get their story, service or product out there in the media can do so at any budget.

What started back in 2014 in Los Angeles, CA, Teperman has since expanded to Nashville (in 2019) and other regions around the world. With outside of the box strategies, Teperman has been quoted saying, “You can have the best product or service, but if nobody knows about it, are you or it really the best?!”

2 - Reed Public Relations

This women-run firm specializes in influencer activations across the Nashville area. Run by CEO and Founder Lauren Reed Williams, she earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) designation in 2010 and is a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization, Women Presidents’ Organization, former president of PRSA Nashville and recipient of the PRSA Nashville 2011 Mercury Award

3 - Milestone Publicity

Founded in Nashville by seasoned music industry publicist Mike Gowen, Milestone Publicity is a blend of traditional big-picture PR visionaries and modern-day PR specialists. The music-based firm has now become one of the top in the field, representing Rock & Roll Hall of Famers, GRAMMY Award-winners, CMA Award-winners, multi-platinum selling artists, Bluegrass Music Hall of Famers, and Songwriter Hall of Famers.

4 - Derryberry PR

Based in Chattanooga, this firm is for those in the region who want local press attention with a great strategy to get the best "bang for their buck". Run by Andy Derryberry and his partners, the firm also specializes in crisis management and local public affairs and government relations.

5 - Howell Marketing Strategies

Founded by best-selling author Amy Howell in Cordova, Amy and her team have served clients ranging in industry type from professional service groups (physicians, lawyers, accountants, etc) to aviation, banking, real estate and more.

6 - BRND House

What started in New York is now in Nashville and is speciality agency that works with brands, restaurants and more on the digital PR and creative side of things. CEO Rob Lindberg and his Vice Presidents Lisa Field and Hannah Schneider run a tight ship and have been one of the top in-demand firms for clients on the east coast.

7 - KQ Communications

This Memphis based agency is all about doing it the "KQ" way. Founded by Renee Malone, KQ Communications was born out of a true desire to serve organizations and individuals who are doing good work in their communities.