What I Would Tell My 1985 Self

students graduating

A reflection on the unexpected paths, imperfect decisions, and quiet lessons that shaped a meaningful life — far beyond anything 1985 could imagine.

Surviving the Summer

small business marketing tips for the summer, including creating unique experiences, teaming up with local businesses, and creating incentives for your customers to buy now.

Summer can be a tough season for small businesses, but with the right mix of seasonal experiences, community partnerships, and smart incentives, you can keep customers engaged and revenue flowing even when foot traffic slows.

Designing the Journey:

Artistic Tunnel

Spring travel brought an unexpected dose of design inspiration. Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal blends nature, light, and intentional architecture — all rooted in a simple sketch on a receipt. This reflection explores how meaningful design begins with clarity, purpose, and the human experience.

When the Power Went Out… Everything Turned On

Aundrea, the President and CEO of MARQUEE Creatives, at her home desk with her pet tortoise and cat.

When the office lost power, something unexpected happened — the work got better. No notifications, no noise, no constant switching. Just space to think. This reflection explores how quiet environments and intentional focus can transform the way we work.

Spring Into Action!

Money growing from the ground

Spring is the perfect time to freshen up your marketing. Learn three simple ways to refine your messaging, deliver real value, and spark meaningful conversations with your audience.

Your Brand Evolved. Your Email Didn’t.

Digital design is evolving fast — fluid interfaces, expressive typography, intentional motion. Yet email often feels stuck in the past. This piece explores the growing disconnect between modern brand experiences and outdated inbox design, and offers practical ways to create emails that feel intentional, memorable, and aligned with your brand at its best.

La Tavola di San Giuseppe Returns to the Table

st.joseph's table chef's dinner on march 19th, 2026

On March 19, MARQUEE Signature Events brought back a cherished Sicilian tradition with La Tavola di San Giuseppe — an intimate cultural dinner experience blending culinary artistry, storytelling, and community. Rooted in gratitude and hospitality, the evening reintroduced MARQUEE’s vision for meaningful, culturally inspired events.

Reframing the narrative

Mayor Derrick McDowell, Reframing the narrative with strategic messaging.

Narratives shape how communities and organizations are perceived — for better or worse. Youngstown’s new mayor, Derrick McDowell, offers a compelling example of how leaders can shift conversations away from frustration and toward shared responsibility. His approach shows how reframing criticism can strengthen engagement, pride, and progress.

Spring Cleaning For Your Marketing Materials!

Spring Cleaning for your marketing materials

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your brand. From updating your website to clearing out outdated collateral, here’s how to give your marketing materials a much‑needed seasonal reset.