The Birney Directive: Creative Support for Small Businesses
In Oxford, Lake Orion, and surrounding areas, small businesses often rely on The Birney Directive when they need help telling their story. For twelve years, owner Brian Birney has built a company designed to handle whatever a business or organization needs to promote itself. Websites, social media, email marketing, graphic design, media buying, public relations, and even custom AI chatbots all fall within his team’s expertise. His own company website, thebirneydirective.com, reflects that high standard. Brian also designed the Oxford Chamber of Commerce website (https://oxfordchamber.net/), a project that showcases his ability to blend technical skill with clear communication.
“We specialize in small businesses,” Brian says. The company is veteran owned and operated, a point of pride that has shaped its work ethic and its roots in the community. Brian also serves on the board of the Orion Veterans Memorial and previously spent eight years on the Orion Township Board, experiences that gave him a deep connection to local residents and the challenges faced by local businesses.
The Birney Directive does not operate out of a single office that clients must visit. Instead, they meet businesses where they are. “Wherever our clients need us to be,” Brian explains. Sometimes that means sitting at a conference table, sometimes walking a shop floor, and sometimes responding to messages through the AI chatbot on their website. Phone, email, text, or online chat, Brian makes contact easy. “Whatever they prefer,” he says.
Brian has attended many chamber events over the years, including coffees, mixers, after hours gatherings, and the annual golf outing. The golf event is his favorite. He enjoys being outside, playing a few rounds, and sharing a couple of beers with familiar faces.
What stands out most to Brian is how meaningful the after hours events are. The relaxed, end of day atmosphere creates genuine conversations and networking that feel natural. “You make a lot of connections with the after hours events,” he says. Morning events can be valuable, but they feel rushed. People need to get to work, check emails, and move on with their day. After hours gatherings give participants time to stay, talk, exchange stories, and build real relationships. Even holding them quarterly would make a difference, Brian believes.
The Birney Directive continues to grow because it adapts quickly to the needs of local businesses. Whether a company wants a full rebrand, a website tune up, or help managing an entire communications strategy, Brian brings a mix of experience, creativity, and genuine community spirit.
In a region filled with small businesses working to stand out and stay connected, The Birney Directive provides something invaluable. It gives organizations the tools to be seen and heard, supported by personal relationships and a deep commitment to the community.