I’m excited to share one of my most enjoyable, creatively freeing projects: a landing page for the local tattoo shop Upper Level Tattoo. This project was a fun departure from my usual work, giving me the chance to break the mold and lean into something truly playful. I’ve been contemplating my first tattoo for years, and while I’m still deciding, I’m pretty sure I know where I’d go—the talent at Upper Level Tattoo is exceptional.

Well, it’s November. And you know what that means: TIME TO PANIC ABOUT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING!!!

Relax. There’s still plenty of time to get everything on your list! (Unless, that is, you need something that’s made in China. Then you’re plumb out of luck.)

When you run a business—especially a small, community-rooted one—you don’t often stop to reflect. You’re moving, planning, responding, juggling, dreaming, managing, and delivering… sometimes all in the same hour. So when VoyageOhio reached out for an interview about my journey and the evolution of our firm, I did something I rarely do: I paused.

I’ve always been fascinated by the world of package design—the kind that makes you stop, pick something up, and admire it before you even know what’s inside. Those clever details, bold colors, and unexpected textures have a way of telling a story on their own, and that’s what first drew me into design. 

At MARQUEE, we’ve always prided ourselves on strong client relationships. As our work has grown in scale and complexity, we recognized the need for a dedicated role focused on ensuring clients feel supported every step of the way. That’s why we created the Director of Client Success position—and why we’re thrilled that the perfect person for the job turned out to be an old friend.

As a proud Youngstown advocate and the parent of an Ursuline alum, I’m heartbroken by the recent allegations coming out of Ursuline High School. I’ve walked those halls. I’ve cheered at those games. I know the strength of that community—and I also know how devastating it is when trusted institutions fail to act swiftly and transparently.