A car wash grand opening should not be the first time local drivers hear your name. By opening day, your market should already recognize your brand, understand where you are located, and have a reason to visit. The strongest new-location launches do not depend on one ribbon cutting, one social post, or one grand-opening offer. […]
For car wash operators, weather can feel like the ultimate wildcard. A stretch of sunshine may bring a rush of retail traffic. A forecast full of rain can cause customers to postpone a visit, even when their vehicle still needs attention. The challenge is not simply that weather affects demand. The larger challenge is how […]
Overview Most car washes direct nearly all of their marketing attention toward individual retail drivers. That approach makes sense because consumer traffic is visible, immediate, and familiar. However, many operators overlook one of the most practical growth opportunities in their own market: local fleet relationships. Fleet business can create consistent and repeatable volume for a […]
Overview Many car wash operators spend most of their time trying to increase daily traffic, but the real growth opportunity often comes after the first visit. A one-time customer can help revenue in the moment, yet a member can create recurring value that is easier to forecast, easier to market to, and easier to retain […]
When drivers need a wash, many of them do not start with brand loyalty. They start with convenience. They search nearby, compare a few options, glance at ratings, and make a fast decision. That is why car wash local SEO matters so much. A great wash can still lose business if it is hard to […]
For many operators, the biggest shift in revenue happens when the business stops relying only on one-time retail traffic and starts building a stronger membership base. Car wash membership marketing is what helps make that shift happen. A lot of car wash owners already understand the value of recurring revenue. The challenge is not whether […]
Many car wash owners assume marketing is the problem when sales slow down. In reality, the issue usually is not a lack of effort. It is a lack of system. One month they run a Facebook ad. The next month they post a few specials on Instagram. Then they print flyers, try a discount, […]
In the modern car wash industry, the battle for the “top of mind” position is fiercer than ever. As new tunnels pop up on every corner, a specific marketing trend has taken hold: the obsession with the “bottom of the funnel.” You’ve heard the pitch for automated text messaging: “Brand awareness doesn’t wash cars. Blast […]
The car wash industry, once the domain of “mom-and-pop” operators and local entrepreneurs, has undergone a radical transformation. Over the last few years, billions in institutional capital have flooded the market, led by private equity (PE) firms looking for the “holy grail” of business models: fragmented markets with high margins and predictable, recurring revenue. For […]
Moving from a single, successful location to a multi-site operation is the “valley of death” for many car wash owners. What worked when you were on-site every day—local handshakes and “gut-feel” promotions—rarely survives the jump to five, ten, or twenty locations. The dream of every successful independent car wash owner is expansion. You’ve mastered the […]
Caroline Sparks is the Marketing Director at SplashSource, where she specializes in setting the strategic marketing direction for the agency and key accounts. She is an experienced marketing professional with over 13 years of expertise developing integrated strategies that support business growth, brand development, and digital transformation. Her work includes leading multi-channel marketing initiatives across SEO, content, CRM, email, social media, website development, and analytics, with a focus on turning marketing into a more measurable and strategic business function. She brings a strong understanding of how messaging, digital infrastructure, user experience, and performance data work together to drive visibility, engagement, and sustainable results. With an MBA in Marketing, a BS in Digital Cinematography and Journalism, and certifications in Google Analytics, Google Ads, and HubSpot, Caroline offers a balanced blend of business strategy, creative leadership, and technical marketing expertise. Outside of the workplace, Caroline enjoys hiking, playing the flute, and growing orchids. She can be reached at csparks@splashsource.com.
Kate McCartney is an Account Coordinator at SplashSource, where she specializes in digital advertising, social media strategy, and client growth initiatives. Kate holds a degree in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from Florida Gulf Coast University and is a Meta-Certified Digital Marketing Associate with expertise in advanced campaign management on Meta platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. She also holds a Certificate in the Principles of Public Relations.
At SplashSource, Kate brings together her strategic writing abilities and digital marketing acumen to create impactful campaigns that engage audiences and drive results. She collaborates with account executives to develop data-driven strategies that enhance client visibility, strengthen brand loyalty, and boost conversions. Whether she's crafting standout social media content or optimizing paid campaigns, Kate ensures every message aligns with each client's brand identity and long-term goals. Her thoughtful, hands-on approach helps car wash operators grow their membership base, increase traffic, and build lasting customer relationships. She can be reached at kmccartney@splashsource.com.
At Splash Source, Sissel designs social media content that combines creativity, current trends, and brand consistency. She specializes in producing graphics that elevate campaigns; from custom templates and branded assets to polished visuals that capture attention across platforms. With years of experience creating social media templates and design kits, she knows how to balance designs with functionality, ensuring content is not only visually engaging but also adaptable for brands. Her designs reflect each brand’s unique voice while helping clients feel confident, proud, and excited about the way their story is represented online.
Alexa Glazier is a Sales Coordinator at SplashSource, where she focuses on client acquisition and helping businesses unlock digital advertising solutions that drive measurable growth. She is currently a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations and a minor in Customer Experience Management. Alexa brings a strong foundation in marketing and client engagement to her role.
At SplashSource, Alexa is dedicated to building new client relationships and guiding operators through the sales process to ensure they find the right marketing strategies for their goals. She plays a key role in generating leads, presenting tailored solutions, and securing long-term partnerships that drive measurable growth. Alexa is passionate about helping businesses expand their digital presence and increase customer loyalty through innovative marketing strategies. She can be reached at Aglazier@splashsource.com
Janelle Bombalier is an Account Manager at ADsource, where she specializes in digital advertising, social media strategy, client growth initiatives, and business listing and reputation management. Janelle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in Marketing from Florida International University.
At ADsource, Janelle partners with clients to create tailored digital strategies that strengthen brand visibility, drive engagement, and deliver measurable results. She excels in optimizing paid media, developing impactful social campaigns, and implementing growth initiatives that help businesses reach their full potential. Her expertise in reputation management and business listings ensures clients maintain a strong, trustworthy digital presence across platforms. Janelle has a proven track record of helping car wash operators increase membership sales, foot traffic, and customer loyalty through targeted digital initiatives. She can be reached at jbombalier@adsource.us
Demetris is a Digital Marketing and Project Manager at SplashSource, where he manages the implementation and optimization of digital ads, and controls the operations behind our production projects. Demetris holds a degree in marketing and numerous certifications including Google Ads, Project Management, and content creation. Demetris brings a sharp eye for strategy and execution to SplashSource, he collaborates on digital ad campaigns and oversees the seamless production of creative assets.
Given his background in marketing and certifications in Google Ads, project management, and content creation, he combines analytical precision with creative insight to drive measurable results for our clients. Known for his ability to balance performance data with compelling storytelling, Demetris ensures every campaign is not just launched - but launched effectively, with purpose and polish. He thrives on optimizing campaigns, streamlining workflows, and bringing big ideas to life through collaborative leadership and systems thinking. Outside the office, Demetris enjoys photography, playing the piano, and casual games of chess. He can be reached at dholligan@splashsource.com.
Dr. Betty N. Carew is an accomplished executive, business strategist, and marketing leader, currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of SplashSource, a premier full-service advertising and marketing agency. In this role, she leads high-performing teams that partner with CEOs, CMOs, senior marketing executives, and business owners to enhance market reach, elevate brand visibility, and accelerate business growth through innovative, data-driven marketing strategies. She is responsible for setting and executing the agency’s strategic vision, driving organizational performance, and fostering client success.
With nearly three decades of experience at 3M Corporation, Dr. Carew is a highly respected marketing and business growth strategist. During her tenure at 3M, she held executive roles spanning global marketing, business development, sales, and Lean Six Sigma operations, earning Master Black Belt certification. As a certified Master Black Belt (MBB), she led major continuous improvement initiatives across business units and industries. Known for her strategic foresight, operational rigor, and customer-centric approach, she has consistently delivered transformational results and scalable growth solutions in complex, dynamic markets.
In addition to her corporate achievements, Dr. Carew is the Founder and Board Chair of the Betty Carew Women’s Development Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing economic empowerment for marginalized women. The foundation provides vocational training and employment opportunities that enable women to build sustainable futures for themselves, their families, and communities.
Her commitment to leadership extends to her service on the Board of Directors of the American Marketing Association (Florida and Indiana Chapters) where she continues to champion innovation, inclusion, and professional development.
Dr. Carew holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, an MBA with a specialization in Marketing from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, and a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in Finance from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Her academic and professional journey reflects a lifelong dedication to excellence, strategic impact, and empowering others.
She is married and the proud mother of two adult children. In her personal time, she enjoys reading and spending quality time with her family. She can be reached at bcarew@splashsource.com
Hannah Fowler is a Social Media Coordinator at SplashSource, where she specializes in enhancing clients’ digital presence through real-time audience engagement and effective campaign management across Meta platforms. Hannah holds a degree in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from Florida Gulf Coast University and has earned certifications as a Meta Digital Marketing Associate and in the Principles of Public Relations.
At SplashSource, Hannah leads the day-to-day management of multiple client social media accounts, ensuring consistent messaging, active community engagement, and timely responses across all platforms. She oversees paid media efforts, including ad placement and boosted content, to drive reach and visibility for key accounts. Additionally, she supports client growth by developing Facebook events, increasing follower engagement, and aligning all social strategies with broader brand objectives. She can be reached at hfowler@splashsource.com.
Bianca Masone is a Digital and Social Media Marketing Manager at SplashSource, where she specializes in graphic design, marketing, and digital advertising. Bianca holds a degree in Marketing with a minor in Digital Media Design and has her Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Florida Gulf Coast University.
At SplashSource, Bianca collaborates closely with our internal specialized teams to strategize, design, and execute compelling content across social media, digital platforms, and advertising. She plays a key role in developing visually engaging and brand-aligned creatives that enhance audience engagement, support marketing campaigns, and drive business growth. Whether crafting eye-catching social media visuals, designing high-performing digital ads, or managing email marketing campaigns, Bianca ensures that every piece of content aligns with the company’s messaging and objectives. She can be reached at bianca@splashsource.com.
Tatum O'Donnell is a Senior Account Manager at SplashSource, where she specializes in digital advertising, social media strategy, and client growth initiatives. Tatum holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from Florida Gulf Coast University and is a Meta-Certified Digital Marketing Associate with expertise in advanced campaign management on Meta platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.
At SplashSource, Tatum works closely with clients to develop high-impact digital marketing strategies, leveraging her deep knowledge of Meta’s advertising platforms to drive engagement and maximize ROI. She excels in paid media optimization, audience targeting, and performance analysis, ensuring each campaign is tailored for success. Her strategic approach and industry expertise make her a trusted partner for brands looking to expand their digital presence. Tatum has a proven track record of driving measurable growth for car wash businesses, helping operators increase membership sales, foot traffic, and customer loyalty through targeted digital campaigns. She can be reached at todonnell@splashsource.com.
Sophia Evans serves as Senior Account Manager at SplashSource, where she leads multi-channel marketing initiatives with a focus on data analytics, content strategy, and client services. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations and a minor in Economics from Florida Gulf Coast University, providing her with a strong foundation in strategic messaging, market analysis, and stakeholder communication.
At SplashSource, Sophia is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and performance evaluation of digital marketing campaigns tailored to the car wash industry. She works cross-functionally with internal teams—including paid media, creative, and web development - to ensure all campaigns align with client objectives and deliver measurable ROI. Sophia’s expertise in interpreting campaign data and applying those insights to optimize strategy is integral to maintaining high standards of performance and accountability. Her proven ability to manage complex client portfolios while driving results underscores her value as a key leader within the agency. She can be reached at - sevans@splashsource.com.
Phil is Lead Graphic Designer for SplashSource. Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design/Visual Communications from Ohio State University, Phil began his career 25 years ago working in agencies and publications as a Senior Art Director.
At SplashSource, Phil designs everything from menus and pay screens to signage and digital ads. You name it, Phil will brand it consistently and creatively. A little-known fact about Phil – he served for seven years as an adjunct professor in the design department at Southern Technical College, teaching aspiring graphic designers in typography, advanced concept development, and portfolio studies.
“The car wash industry provides opportunities to implement great branding and messaging to help our clients stand out in what has become an extremely competitive industry. I like to keep things fresh, consistent, and interesting—and I think our clients appreciate our hands-on approach and out-of-the-box thinking.”
With more than 30 years of experience, Mary Shallies brings a proven track record of driving business growth through strategic, data-informed marketing. Her expertise spans a wide range of industries, where she has consistently developed and executed integrated marketing strategies that deliver measurable business outcomes.
As a former agency owner, Mary worked directly with executive teams to align marketing initiatives with organizational goals, translating insight into action and strategy into sustained performance.
In her current marketing strategist consultative role, Mary serves as a senior strategist, working in close partnership with agency teams and clients to develop, optimize, and guide high-impact marketing initiatives. Her deep market insight, analytical rigor, and results-driven approach position her as a key advisor in building brand equity, accelerating customer acquisition, and driving long-term growth. She can be reached at mshallies@splashsource.com.