Amanda Sproules

Where are you from?

I am originally from Kansas City, MO. I moved to St. Louis after I graduated from Mizzou and have been here for two years.

Do you have a spouse, kids, pets?

I have two very small dogs. Mia is a 2 year old morkie and Hank is a 1 year old mutt. I also have a Thoroughbred named Tommy.

Before Brighton, what was your professional role? 

Before Brighton I worked at a leading animal health company. I had multiple roles at this company which made me a woman of many hats!

Now, what is your current title at Brighton? …and what does this role entail?  

I am an Account Executive at Brighton on the Agriculture Team. I will be focusing on Monsanto Crop Protection projects. I have begun some organizing, reviewing and editing of sales pieces and excited to take on more.

Do you have a favorite thing about working at Brighton?

Brighton’s success in agriculture marketing is what made me want to work here. I am excited to be able to work in marketing and include my passion. Sue’s Cardinals day game food days are pretty awesome too.

What was your first week working at Brighton like?  

My first week at Brighton was very exciting. I feel like I am beginning my dream career here and the amount of talent that I have seen in the office reassures that I made the right career move. I am still learning a lot and thrilled to be here.

Do you have any hobbies?

Tommy, my horse, and I event. Eventing is a triathlon with a horse and a rider. The three phases include dressage, cross-country and stadium jumping. Eventing is scored like golf where you collect penalty points and the lowest score wins. We had to take some time off while I was in school but we will be competing at our first event of the year in a few weeks here in St. Louis at Queeny Park!

What is your favorite food?

Sushi. If I could afford it I would eat sushi every day of the week.

A fun fact about yourself?

During college I had an internship in Australia on a horse ranch. While I was there I got to stay and ride for a few days with the trainer who taught Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman how to ride for the movie Australia. I rode the same horse Hugh Jackman rode. No big deal.

Anything else you would like to add…

I own multiple deep fryers. Don’t judge. I make great homemade jalapeno poppers.

Mini Johri

Where are you from?

I grew up all over Asia but my family settled in New York about 16 years ago so I consider that home now.

Do you have a spouse, kids, pets?

Yes, I’ve been married for a year and a half and have 2 little monsters; a fat cat named Cosie and a really funny dog named Dodger.

Before Brighton, what was your professional role? 

Before Brighton I worked in Los Angeles as an Account Management Supervisor for Red Bull.

Now, what is your current title at Brighton?

I am currently an Account Manager on the Natura Pet Care account.

Do you have a favorite thing about working at Brighton?

The people all seem really great and I’m enjoying the game day feasts a little too much!

What was your first week working at Brighton like?  

Very quick! They say time flies when you’re having fun so I guess that’s a good thing.

Do you have any hobbies?

Anything and everything related to fashion and beauty.

What is your favorite food?

Good old Mac and Cheese!

A fun fact about yourself?

I love Bollywood movies and Karaoke.

Where are you from?

I’m from Peoria, Illinois, but I just recently moved to the St. Louis area from Des Moines, Iowa.

Do you have a spouse, kids, pets?

I am a newlywed! My husband, Paul, and I got married in October of 2012, and I’m happy to say we’re still in the honeymoon phase. But no kids any time soon (sorry, Mom!), and no pets yet.

Before Brighton, what was your professional role?

I was a marketing coordinator for an independent sleep center in West Des Moines, Iowa. I did a lot of copywriting, social media planning, coordinating, and some light design work while I was there.

Now, what is your current title at Brighton? …and what does this role entail? (brief sentence)

My official title is Assistant Account Executive, and I’m thrilled to be on the “Pet Team.” So far, my role includes assisting any way I can on all things Natura.

Do you have a favorite thing about working at Brighton?

I think it’s too early to be specific, but overall, the welcoming environment and the chance to be surrounded by so much talent is amazing.

What was your first week like working at Brighton?

Very educational, in a good way. Who knew there were so many different kinds of pet food?

Do you have any hobbies?

I enjoy acting in community productions whenever I get the chance (I’m actually wrapping up a play now). Also, my husband and I are learning Italian in our (little) spare time.

What is your favorite food?

I could probably eat an entire bag of Salt & Vinegar chips in one sitting. Also, I love anything with “spinach and artichoke” in the name.

A fun fact about yourself?

During my last semester of college, two of my classes were wine tasting and bowling.

Anything else you would like to add…

I’m just so overjoyed to be given the opportunity to further my career at Brighton, and I look forward to my future with the agency.

Where are you from?

I grew up in Webster Groves.

Do you have a spouse/kids/pets?

No/no/no, though I’m very attached to my parents’ English labs, Chloe & Murphy

Before Brighton, what was your professional role?

I was a senior art director at Cannonball, where I spent nearly six years. I worked on pretty much every Anheuser-Busch brand with an emphasis on the sub-premium light beers, as well as Scottrade, Farmland Foods, Edwards Desserts and various others. The last project I did there was for COCA’s annual fundraiser, and ranks as one of my favorite professional moments.

Do you have a favorite thing about working here so far?

What drew me into Brighton was the level of intelligence and curiosity here. I appreciate the dialogue, passion, insight and the commitment to doing more than just a good job, but to developing lasting relationships with clients. I like the vibe at Brighton, which is intensely serious but obviously very well-humored.

What was your first week like?

Fast, exhilarating, confusing at times, but I got the immediate sense that people here genuinely care about each other and will make sure the transition is smooth.

Do you have any hobbies?

I race bikes. During the spring and summer I focus on track (at the velodrome in north St. Louis on Thursday nights), which features a bunch of guys on fixed gear bikes with no brakes. I also participate in the criterium scene, a type of racing that’s huge in the Midwest. It consists of fast races of up to 65 riders battling for position on a closed loop in city neighborhoods. Very spectator-friendly. In the fall, I like cyclocross, an event on dirt that demands racers navigate mud, obstacles, and other barriers. Cycling is a great way to experience relentless humility.

Favorite food?

Red meat cooked over flames. That, or gelato.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself:

I won a bronze medal in the single scull at the US Rowing Masters National Championships in 2011, and earlier that year I got lost on both islands of New Zealand in the same day (the first instance involved trying to find the NZ national rowing team). That took some effort.

Anything else?

I’m surprisingly good at Connect 4.

Kyel Richard

“I’m going to improve my golf game in 2013. I’m not only going to play more, I’m going to practice more. I’m going to take a cart less often and “hoof-it” with my bag instead. It’s a nice walk that’s as good for my mental health as it is for my physical health. I’m off to a good start on my goals. While I have yet to make it on the course in 2013, I’ve spent a lot of time at the range on days (and nights) I should’ve been curled up by a fire. I’ve been (impatiently) waiting for the days to get longer (and warmer) so I can devote a little more time.”

Ellen Ariston

“My goal is to lose at least 20lbs by Memorial Day, as that’s when we’re taking the kids on a beach vacation. Other than a few slips on the weekends, I am eating very healthy and have even started working out once a week, which is once more than usual. I am even looking to bump it to twice a week. (I’m not sporty, cut me some slack). Having the kitchen on the first floor of the new office is helping me to avoid treats like the cupcakes and cookies sent from building management as well as Sue’s candy bowl (no candy so far in 2013!). I’ve lost 5lbs so far.”

Courtney Schmiemeier

“My goals for the New Year are to run the GO! St. Louis ½ Marathon, eat more greens, and make more dates with friends. Since I set these goals, I have continued to train with friends for the upcoming race. I have also started to swap out my starch for greens. I have recently became obsessed with brussel sprouts—add a little olive oil and golden raisins, and hello yummy! And since the New Year, I have successfully had either dinner, coffee date, nails, shopping, SOMETHING with a different gal pal of mine. I think it is important to show your friends how much they mean to you, and what better way to do so than spend time with them.”

Tina VonderHaar

“I am going to try to start drinking hot tea instead of coffee.  Don’t get me wrong… I will still have coffee every day and I am good with that.  But every once in a while, and for afternoon treats, I have been enjoying a hot Refresh tea that makes me feel good!  I guess the other thing that I would like to start doing is eating more fresh fruit… blueberries especially.  This is so hard with my travel schedule and the hours that I keep.  The fruit-my-cube program is great but it seems that I am never in the office to eat the fruit!”

Stephanie Bishop:

“While I didn’t select a New Year’s Resolution, I am looking to continuously make healthier decisions – especially when it comes to eating. For the last year I’ve cut out sweets/foods high in sugar (I’ll occasionally have a sweet here and there, but nothing like I used to); Additionally, I aim to maintain a consistent exercise routine and during Lent this year I gave up any and all fried foods.”

Mary Sawyer:

“Since I spend so much time at my computer, I have a lot of neck and back aches. My resolutions are to have better posture, take more regular walk breaks around the office, make frequent use of a gofit foam roller my daughter gave me for Christmas and do more exercising!”

Alisha Harris:

“Leaving work and going to the workout room right outside of our office so I can feel great and put me first for a change is my goal!”

Clara Freeman

“New year, new Clara. This year I decided to make some changes. New Clara is upbeat, gets stuff done and has fun. So every time I start to get grumpy or frustrated I say to myself, “Upbeat” and I force a smile. It works! Also I’ve been working my butt off to not let my to-do’s pile up. And it’s actually much LESS stressful than the other way around. So far New Clara is a success.”

Matt Taylor

Where are you from?
St. Louis – born and raised.

Do you have a spouse, kids, pets?
Not married, no kids.  No pets, but I have a couple aloe plants I’ve managed to keep alive since college.  I’m definitely a dog person, though.  Cats are jerks.

Before Brighton, what was your professional role?
I worked as New Media Art Director at a small marketing agency here in St. Louis.

Now, what is your current title at Brighton? …and what does this role entail?
My title is Multimedia Producer.  So far, that role entails video and audio production, video editing, motion graphic creation and guardian of dozens and dozens of video hard drives.

Do you have a favorite thing about working at Brighton?
Probably the easy answer, but I have to go with the people. Everybody has been super friendly and welcoming so far. It’s a tie for second between the candy bowl on Sue’s desk and the coffee.

What was your first week working at Brighton like?  
Busy – the transition from freelancer to full time employee was relatively smooth, but there are a lot of projects going on and lots to do!

Do you have any hobbies?
I play on a couple different softball teams, I like to cook, I like to run and workout, and I enjoy movies, comics and reading books when I have time…

What is your favorite food?
I like everything.  Except black olives – those taste like dirt.

A fun fact about yourself?
I shot two of my student films in Brighton’s old office.

Anything else you would like to add…
I’m a big Cardinals and Mizzou Tigers fan – I love pretty much all sports   I’m a pretty big Star Wars nerd, too…

Travis Coffman

Where are you from?
I’m from a small town outside of Washington, MO called Labadie. However, I currently live in St. Louis.

Do you have a spouse, kids, pets?
I don’t. I do have a pretty great girlfriend, and live with two of my best friends.

Before Brighton, what was your professional role?
Before Brighton, I worked for a fertilizer additive company here in St. Louis as a Marketing Representative. After a few changes within the company, I decided that I would like to work on the agency side, and found a great opportunity at Brighton.

Now, what is your current title at Brighton? …and what does this role entail?
My current title at Brighton is Account Executive. I will be working on the Ag accounts mostly, but will also be a utility man for other clients.

Do you have a favorite thing about working at Brighton?
My favorite thing about Brighton is the laid back atmosphere. Everyone is super friendly and it seems like a fun place to work.

What was your first week working at Brighton like?  
My first week at Brighton was all about learning about Brighton and its clients. It was a lot to soak in, but I was up for the challenge.

Do you have any hobbies?
I love to play to golf, but I’m definitely not a pro.

What is your favorite food?
Pretty much any meat and potato combo is my favorite food.

A fun fact about yourself?
I can’t float.

Anything else you would like to add…
I’m just really excited about starting a new chapter in my life at Brighton. From what I’ve seen so far, this is will be one great chapter!

Meet Alexandra Bates

Where are you from?

I grew up in Festus, Missouri.

Do you have a spouse, kids, pets?

No, to the first two; thankfully, I only have a dog—Lola, a 3-year-old Sheltie.

Before Brighton, what was your professional role? 

I previously worked part time from home, proofing ads for a company called Journatic. I also wrote a weekly food story for my hometown’s newspaper, and I wrote stories and took photos for my website, HelloSTL.com.

Now, what is your current title at Brighton? …and what does this role entail?

My title is Quality Control/Proofreader. I proofread and make sure everything’s top quality.

Do you have a favorite thing about working at Brighton?

So far, I really enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and friendly people.

What was your first week working at Brighton like?  

Because my position is a brand new one, my first week I was doing a mix of things and helping out anywhere I was needed.

Do you have any hobbies?

I like to write (non-fiction & poetry), read (I love Capote & Steinbeck), travel (road-trips and more), cook & bake, sing (but not if people are listening) and shop at antique & thrift stores.

What is your favorite food?

That is difficult. I have a few: goat cheese, Elicia’s Pizza, popcorn, Greek salads, Waffle House waffles and more.

A fun fact about yourself?

I own a pair of bowling shoes.

While the move itself is never fun, planning for the move was exciting and working in our new space will be great. You may be asking, “Why go through all of this stress if only to find yourself less than two blocks from where you started?” There are many reasons for Brighton’s relocation, but the first is that we are in business to better serve our clients. Over the past few years, Brighton has expanded our capabilities and won new business. To accommodate that growth, we needed more people and a larger office that is conducive to our THINK, CREATE, ENGAGE philosophy.

Over the past few years, Brighton has evolved into an agency that has a stronger sense of identity. That identity centers on the ability to engage in meaningful and long-term relationships with our clients so that we can be part of an ongoing team that delivers results. This is sometimes advertising, sometimes communications, sometimes strategic marketing development and a whole host of other things you can conveniently find on our website. In this evolution, one thing is certain, we have become a destination point for our clients to be able to spend time and think with us about how we can work together to effect change. Our new space is set up on this very premise.  COME, THINK, STAY.

Beyond the general look and feel of our new space, you will also find that we have added a new capability that we are very excited about, as are our clients. Our new in-house video production and sound recording facilities enables us to bring the stories that clients want/need to tell to life in this amazing format. By keeping this in our building, we can better work with clients to deliver this service with ease and perfection.

Please come see us. We are proud of our new digs and happy when guests are here. It is a great environment to spend an afternoon or a day and the drinks are on us!

We’ve included some pictures of our new “home” below. For more photos, be sure to check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BrightonAgency. Let us know what you think of our new space!

If you haven’t figured it out already, this is what we search marketers call re-marketing. While I’ve heard from others this feature can seem a bit “creepy,” as you notice in the example above, it seems to do its job.

The purpose of re-marketing is to help businesses advertise to people who have once visited the site and shown interest but maybe have not yet converted. This increases a brand’s effectiveness by saving advertising costs and increasing return on investment. If your strategy includes increasing awareness of your brand, re-marketing will also aide in improving website traffic. From this description we realize that re-marketing is not necessarily perfect for every brand. In my opinion, Jimmy John’s could have held back a bit on the ad targeting. After all, I did make a purchase, give me a break! I’d recommend a change to their re-marketing plan by only targeting those who visit the online order form and fail to follow through with an order. Make sense?

That being said, let’s take a look at a brand that is using re-marketing to the best of its ability, with an impressive strategy in mind.

ModCloth - An online store for women’s vintage clothing and accessories

Strategy:

(1) Shopper wanders through the online store.

(2) Shopper chooses a pair of earrings and sends earrings to the shopping cart.

(3) Shopper gets distracted (blame it on the YouTube cats) and forgets about the adorable earrings.

(4) Shopper is browsing online and sees ModCloth’s personalized ad. Not to mention, this ad also includes a photo of the earrings the user put into his or her shopping cart.

Not only did ModCloth’s online marketer target the correct visitors at the correct time, ads were modified to represent the users’ personal ModCloth picks. Personalizing ads will grab the users’ attention at an even higher rate than a generic ad. This type of online marketing is impressive and convenient for the shoppers who are reminded to purchase the items once forgotten. Props to ModCloth!

If you’re interested in re-marketing, Brighton offers this capability within our interactive department. If you have any questions, let us know! The online marketing team is here to help.