Text In Church Acquires First Impressions Conference to Enhance Church Hospitality Training

KANSAS CITY, Mo., March 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Text In Church, the leading church texting software company, officially acquired the First Impressions Conference, a well-respected training hub dedicated to helping churches create unforgettable experiences for their guests.

This acquisition strengthens Text In Church's mission of equipping church leaders with the tools, knowledge, and strategies to foster deeper connections beyond their weekend services.

For years, the First Impressions Conference, formerly led by Greg Atkinson, has provided valuable insights and training at online and in-person conferences for church leaders seeking to enhance their hospitality and guest experience strategies. Now, as part of the Text In Church family, First Impressions will have an even greater impact, reaching more churches with the content, community, and coaching they need.

Beyond the conference itself, this acquisition introduces the First Impressions Academy, a new innovative program designed to provide churches with ongoing education, community support, and leadership training. The Academy includes comprehensive coaching, team-focused playbooks, and interactive live events to help church leaders implement proven assimilation strategies.

Church leaders can look forward to two major events in 2025: an online conference on May 21, 2025, and an in-person conference from September 9-11, 2025, in Kansas City. These events will offer hands-on training, networking opportunities, and insights from church leaders and experts in radical church hospitality.

Tyler Smith, Co-founder and CEO of Text In Church, shared his excitement about the acquisition:

"At Text In Church, we've always been dedicated to helping church leaders make their people feel known, noticed, and loved. By bringing First Impressions into the fold, we're doubling down on that commitment, equipping leaders with tools and training to welcome and retain guests. This acquisition isn't just about growth—it's about transformation. Together with First Impressions, we're empowering churches to build stronger connections, cultivate deeper community, and make every guest feel like they've found their home."

Greg Atkinson, Founder of the First Impressions Conference, expressed his confidence in the transition:

"I chose to sell the First Impressions Conference to Tyler Smith, my long-time friend because I believe he and his team get the heart and vision of First Impressions. They care about reaching and keeping guests. They understand the mission and what we set out to do. They can take it to the next level, and I'm excited about the future."

Ali Hofmeyer and Brie Kershaw lead the First Impressions team and have curated the content and developed the community for Academy. Jason Moore (author, coach, and consultant at Midnight Oil Productions), Mary Ann Sibley (coach and consultant at MatterSpark), and Jason Young (author, coach, and former Director of Guest Experience at North Point Ministries) headline the coaching staff.

Mary Ann Sibley had no hesitations about joining this new endeavor and the impact it would have on local churches:

"Working with Text In Church for several years as a speaker for their ENGAGE Conference, I have developed a deep respect for their approach to customer service and support for church leaders. Their combination of genuine warmth, intelligent strategy, and radical generosity affirms their commitment to building the Kingdom. So, when I heard they were the new owners of First Impressions, I could not be more excited and humbled to be invited into their latest adventure. I cannot wait to see what God does in and through the new First Impressions!"

Jason Young added:

"I'm excited that Text In Church is leading the charge with First Impressions! I love the intentional direction they're taking—blending strategy, care, and practical tools to help today's leaders create meaningful moments that matter for volunteers and guests. This is exactly the kind of leadership and focus that will make a real impact. I am here for it."

This acquisition represents another milestone for Text In Church as it broadens its impact in the church communication and leadership space. By integrating First Impressions into its offerings, Text In Church continues to reinforce its commitment to providing church leaders with innovative software and the knowledge and strategies necessary for building thriving, engaged communities.

For more information about Text In Church's tools and training, please visit Text In Church or contact:

Jack Zelinko
Director of Growth and Marketing, Text In Church
Email: [email protected]

For more information about First Impressions Academy and events, please visit First Impressions or contact:
Ali Hofmeyer
Managing Director, First Impressions
Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Text In Church