The Growing Gay and Lesbian Community in South Florida is being Courted with New Products and Services by Small Businesses

Miami, FL, November 14, 2007 --(PR.com)-- Take a walk along the major pedestrian thoroughfares in South Florida- from Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road to Las Olas and you may notice more and more gay and lesbian couples sprinkled among the many residents and tourists who flock here. Many gay and lesbian couples are calling South Florida home for the same reasons that attract their heterosexual counterparts- the wonderful weather, growing opportunities, or supportive communities. It's common to see large corporations targeting the gay community in advertisements (like Orbitz, Levis, and IBM) but more and more small business are catering to this growing market segment.

One such business, Miami Astrology (http://www.miamiastrology.com), who offers astrology consultation services specifically for gay and lesbian individuals and couples, has recently invested in an upgraded website and more targeted advertising. "My services are available to anyone who desires greater self-awareness, objective insight, and practical help in their lives," say Ron Akanowicz, the astrologer behind Miami Astrology. "But as a gay man and astrologer I'm really interested in giving back to the community by making sure gay men and gay couples know there's an alternative available. Sharing your story with an astrologer can be revealing and I want to create an atmosphere of comfort, safety, and support for my clients."

As more and more businesses devote ad dollars to reaching this market the key to remaining competitive will depend on their ability to deliver on that message. Many companies may court the gay and lesbian dollar but only those that back up their products and services with honest, useful, and real benefits can expect to convert customers. "The gay community has a lot of solidarity and companies that attempt to direct marketing messages to us better make sure that message is sincere," says Akanowicz.

While there is a general downturn in the economy smart businesses are fine-tuning their advertising campaigns to ensure maximum effectiveness. Large and small businesses alike can learn from each other and continue to offer exceptional products and services. "I expect Miami Astrology to continue to see positive growth over the next year," says Akanowicz "People don't view astrology as a frivolous service any more- but a viable alternative to more traditional means of self-help and personal growth."

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Miami Astrology (http://www.miamiastrology.com) provides personal astrological consultations to individuals and couples and specializes in gay and lesbian relationship issues. Ron Akanowicz, astrologer, has been studying astrology for over six years and recently launched an upgrade to his popular website www.miamiastrology.com. Ron is a member of several professional astrology organizations including NCGR (National Council for Geocosmic Research), OPA (Organization for Professional Astrology), and the AFA (American Federation of Astrologers). Ron lives in Miami Florida with his partner and their dog, Sophie.