BORN BY THE SEA

Where coastal roots meet modern tourism marketing.

Clark's Harbour, Nova Scotia |Credit: Atlantic Coast Images | Shutterstock

A short "tail" about us

At Nova Scotia Tourism Marketing, we’re more than marketers — we’re proud Nova Scotians who believe in the power of our province’s people, places, and stories.

Founded by Shelley Bellefontaine of AtlanticOnline.ca, this brand was created to support the tourism operators, artisans, and adventure-makers who bring Nova Scotia’s spirit to life.

black bird flying over the sea during daytime
black bird flying over the sea during daytime

Humpback whale tail, like those seen in the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia | Credit: Phoebe Dill | Unsplash

We know tourism is personal...

...and the experience begins long before the guest arrives. Our goal is to make sure the first impression online is just as memorable as the experience you offer in person.

Driftwood By The Bay, Clare, Nova Scotia | Credit: DWBTB

...has incredible experiences to offer. And it's our goal to make sure the right travellers find them. And instead of relying only on big tourism platforms that take a cut of your revenue, we offer you a way to take control of your marketing and attract more direct bookings.

And you know Nova Scotia...

Cap Forchu Lighthouse, Yarmouth, Nova Scotia | Credit: rusty426 | Shutterstock

25+ Years Expertise

With over 25 years of digital marketing experience, our work is grounded in strategic thinking, beautiful design, and a deep understanding of what makes this province shine. Whether you're running a coastal B&B, leading whale-watching tours, or showcasing local culture, we help you stand out where it matters most — online.

Meet Shelley

Founder of Nova Scotia Tourism Marketing & AtlanticOnline.ca

Hello! I’m Shelley Bellefontaine, a Nova Scotian digital marketing strategist with over 25 years of experience helping businesses grow and thrive online. As the founder of AtlanticOnline.ca, I’ve worked with organizations across Canada — from tourism operators and small businesses to non-profits and corporations — to create results-driven marketing strategies rooted in authenticity, storytelling, and smart design.

Nova Scotia Tourism Marketing is my newest passion project — built to support the people and places that make this province so special. From scenic coastal tours and boutique accommodations to artisanal food spots and cultural experiences, I’m here to help local tourism operators stand out online and turn curious travellers into loyal visitors.

This brand is grounded in my belief that:

  • Tourism is one of Nova Scotia’s greatest economic and cultural treasures.

  • No matter the size, every tourism business deserves a beautiful online presence.

  • Digital marketing should feel approachable, personalized, and results-focused.


With my team, I offer a blend of web design, social media marketing, SEO, and ad strategy, all tailored to the unique rhythm of Nova Scotia’s tourism seasons and the needs of small operators working hard to create memorable guest experiences.

I’m also the creator of:

THERASOL – MarketingForTherapists.ca: A digital marketing service for Canadian mental health professionals.

BeYourOwnBusinessMarketer.com: A DIY learning platform for entrepreneurs ready to take their marketing into their own hands.


When I’m not working with clients, I serve on the Board of the Clare Health Centre Foundation, helping raise funds to support accessible healthcare in our region. That is, when I’m not swimming laps at our local university pool, strumming my ukulele, or learning my way around a guitar.

Let’s showcase what makes your business, and Nova Scotia, unforgettable.

Our services

Tourism in Nova Scotia is thriving—but is your business getting the online visibility it deserves? Today’s travellers plan their trips online, searching for the best experiences, accommodations, and local gems long before they arrive. If your business isn’t easy to find, you’re missing out on bookings and revenue.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization)

Get found when travelers search for experiences like yours.
If your business isn’t ranking on Google, you’re losing potential customers. We optimize your online position with compelling blog posts, website copy, and email campaigns that highlight the best of what you offer, making it easier for travelers to discover you.

Social Media Marketing & Management

Engage travelers where they spend their time—on social media.
→ Your potential customers are scrolling through social media for inspiration. We craft engaging social media content for Facebook & Instagram that builds excitement around your business and encourages bookings.

Website Design & Development

A stunning, user-friendly website that turns visitors into customers.
→ Your website is your digital storefront. We create mobile-friendly, high-performing websites that showcase your offerings, drive direct bookings, and reflect the beauty of Nova Scotia’s tourism experiences.

Targeted advertising that brings real results.
→ Want to reach travelers actively planning their trips? Our data-driven ad campaigns ensure your business appears in front of the right audience at the right time—so you can increase bookings and revenue.

Digital Advertising (Google & Social Ads)

Name this road! → @novascotiatourismmarketing

We help local tourism operators like you get seen by the right people, whether they’re searching for adventures, accommodations, or unique local experiences.

With expert digital marketing - SEO, social media, and targeted ads - we put your business in front of travellers ready to book.

More visibility. More bookings. More profit. Let’s make your tourism business thrive.

Let’s get started today.

Our message...

Ready to Grow?

Let’s chat! Schedule a quick, no-obligation 20-minute call with us to discuss how we can help your tourism business thrive in the digital world. As a thank-you for your time, we’ll send you our Marketing Services & Pricing Guide, so you can see exactly how we can collaborate to increase your visibility and drive bookings.

Grand Pré National Historic Site, Grand Pré, Nova Scotia | Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia / PhototypeHFX