With more than two decades of expertise in developing, launching, and nurturing brands, my experience spans across corporate, product, and personal branding. I possess a profound understanding of the critical elements required to create a robust brand identity, and I am experienced at using these components to form a complete brand. Crafting a cohesive brand that resonates with customers is a vital component of a marketing arsenal, integral to establishing a strong connection with the audience.
Buttonsmith
During my time at Buttonsmith, I spearheaded the transformation of the brand from a modest niche entity into a market leader in on-demand, premium custom products.
MerchBlue
Launched in the fall of 2022 as an initiative by Buttonsmith, MerchBlue is a brand dedicated to providing political merchandise. It caters to clients seeking to supply their supporters with high-quality, American-made, union-printed merchandise.
Tolt Supply
Initially introduced as an Amazon-exclusive brand, Tolt Supply was later reimagined and relaunched under Buttonsmith as a promotional products brand. Distinguishing itself from conventional promotional merchandise, Tolt Supply embraces an environmentally conscious, ethical and aspirational ethos.
DeNike Communications
Since 2005, I have cultivated DeNike Communications into a consulting firm specializing in marketing, branding, and analytics. Throughout this journey, I have supported a diverse array of clients, assisting with projects that span from branding and content creation to technical product manuals and sustainability certifications.
Painted Shadow Designs
In early 2024, I founded Painted Shadow Designs as a platform to chronicle my exploration of home styling, DIY endeavors, and artistry. This project serves as a creative avenue to discuss the rustic modern aesthetic of our Montana home, encapsulating the essence of my journey and inspirations.
Buttonsmith Messaging
The foundational pillars of Buttonsmith’s messaging center around its commitment to American-made products, exceptional quality, environmental sustainability, meticulous design, and ethical business practices. Buttonsmith’s dedication ensures that every item is manufactured in the United States with components sourced domestically. The company prioritizes the highest quality materials available, emphasizing durability and functionality. Its manufacturing processes are carefully designed to be environmentally and worker-friendly, avoiding harmful chemicals and relying on renewable energy sources. Buttonsmith is renowned for the thoughtful design of its products, making them not only practical but also aesthetically appealing. As a unionized and women-led organization, Buttonsmith prides itself on adhering to the highest ethical standards, embodying its core values across every facet of its operations.
MerchBlue Messaging
MerchBlue’s messaging is focused on enlightening political candidates, campaigns, and organizations about the significance of merchandise. Our research revealed a common gap in understanding within these groups regarding the potential value and impact that merchandise can bring. To address this, I developed three key phrases that are consistently integrated across all MerchBlue platforms:
Merch is social proof for undecided voters.
Merch helps raise more money.
Merch creates a greater sense of community.
MerchBlue launch revenue growth in 2023
Increase in Amazon revenue over 5 years