Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with you and your business, can you tell us more?
I'm Michelle Wintersteen, the founder and CEO of MKW Creative Co., an agency dedicated to crafting brag-worthy brands that standout on social media. Since launching in 2014, my mission has been to empower entrepreneurs with the tools and insights needed to build a brand that not only stands out, but also truly resonates with their audience. As a fourth-generation female entrepreneur, you could say that the spirit of entrepreneurship runs deep in my veins.
Beyond the agency, I host the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast and lead the Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Community, where I dive deeper into the world of branding, share industry secrets, and connect with a community of creatives and aspiring entrepreneurs. These spaces are extensions of my commitment to fostering a supportive environment for graphic designers, marketers, and entrepreneurs to learn, grow, and inspire each other.
Living in sunny San Diego with my yellow lab puppy, I infuse every project with a dose of West Coast energy and a vibrant color palette. My approach is casual, honest, and yes, a bit sassy, which has helped me create a strong online rapport with my followers and on behalf of the brands I collaborate with. At MKW Creative Co., we're more than just a branding agency; we're a launchpad for businesses ready to make a significant impact on social media.
Hey there! What sparked the amazing idea to start MKW Creative Co? Was there a 'light bulb' moment that led to this colorful journey in brand design?
The journey to starting MKW Creative Co. was a blend of serendipity and a deep-seated passion for creativity that I've nurtured since I was young. The 'light bulb' moment? It was more like a gradual illumination, a realization over time that I could fuse my love for design, branding, and social media into a career that didn't just pay the bills but also fueled my soul.
I've always been fascinated by the power of a strong brand and the impact it can have on a business's success, especially in the digital age. After freelancing and experimenting with various creative projects, I noticed a gap in the market for brand design that truly understood the dynamics of social media. That's where MKW Creative Co. comes in – to fill that gap, offering vibrant, punchy, and memorable branding solutions that thrive online. It's been a colorful journey, one that allows me to pour my passion into helping other entrepreneurs bring their vision to life in the most visually compelling way possible.
Navigating the world of digital design seems like a vibrant adventure. What's the most exciting part of bringing brands to life for you?
Absolutely, it's a vibrant adventure and then some! The most exhilarating part of what I do at MKW Creative Co. is that moment when the brand's identity starts to take shape—when the colors, fonts, and design elements begin to tell a story. It's like watching a painting come to life, where each stroke adds depth and emotion. For me, it's not just about creating a logo or a color palette; it's about crafting an identity that resonates deeply with the brand's audience, evoking feelings and building connections.
There's this incredible moment of synergy between strategy and creativity where everything clicks. That's when I know we've nailed it. It's seeing the excitement in my clients' eyes (or hearing it in their voices) when they see their vision translated into a tangible brand identity. It's more than just design; it's about giving their business a soul that speaks to their audience. And let's not forget the ripple effect—launching the brand into the digital world and watching it flourish across social media platforms. That, to me, is the most thrilling part of the journey.
Your podcast mixes creative entrepreneurship with inspiring talks. What's your secret recipe for keeping each episode fresh and engaging?
For me, creating each episode of the 'Kiss My Aesthetic' podcast is all about diversity in content and guests. I strive to blend practical advice for creative entrepreneurs with stories that inspire and challenge the status quo. Every guest brings their unique perspective and experience to the table, sharing insights from their journey, which ensures that no two episodes taste the same.
Engagement comes from authenticity and relatability. I keep it real, sharing not just the highs but also the lows of running MKW Creative Co. and navigating the creative industry. This honesty resonates with my audience, creating a space where we can all learn and grow together. And let's not forget humor—adding a little sass and laughter makes even the most complex topics more digestible.
Lastly, I listen to my community. Feedback from the 'Kiss My Aesthetic' Facebook group and podcast listeners helps me tune into what topics are most relevant and exciting. This feedback loop keeps the content fresh and ensures we're always hitting the mark with our audience.
Every podcast has its unique vibe. How would you describe the energy and spirit of 'Kiss My Aesthetic,' and what makes it a must-listen for your audience?
I like to think of the energy of 'Kiss My Aesthetic' as catching up with a good friend over coffee in a sun-drenched, art-filled café. It's vibrant, warm, and inviting, with a sprinkle of West Coast sunshine. We dive deep into the heart of creative entrepreneurship, blending professional insights with personal stories that make you feel seen and understood. It's this combination of professional wisdom and personal vulnerability that creates a unique, magnetic vibe.
What makes it a must-listen? It's our commitment to authenticity and practicality. We're not just about the fluff or the success stories; we're about the real journey of building a brand and a business. From the nitty-gritty of design strategies to the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, we cover it all. Plus, our community is incredible. The 'Kiss My Aesthetic' podcast is an extension of our Facebook group—a place where creatives from all walks of life come together to support, challenge, and inspire each other.
In essence, 'Kiss My Aesthetic' is for anyone looking to infuse their creative ventures with joy, color, and a bit of sass. It's for those who appreciate honest conversations about what it really takes to make it in the creative world. If you're seeking a blend of actionable advice, inspiring stories, and a community that gets it, you've found your tribe.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Primarily, my incredible team at MKW Creative Co. They're the backbone of our operations, bringing their creativity, dedication, and expertise to the table every day. Their talent and hard work make the magic happen, and I'm endlessly grateful for their contributions.
Then, there's our fantastic community over at the 'Kiss My Aesthetic' Facebook group and podcast listeners that I cannot stop bragging about! Their engagement, feedback, and stories fuel our passion and drive our content. They're not just an audience; they're an active part of our creative journey, offering insights, challenges, and support that push us to be better every day.
Lastly, I want to shout out to the mentors, peers, and industry leaders who've inspired and guided me along the way. Their wisdom, encouragement, and example have been invaluable. Building MKW Creative Co. has been a collaborative effort, and it's these relationships—within our team, our community, and our industry—that truly make our work shine.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, I love playing tour guide in sunny San Diego! There's so much to explore here, especially if you're a foodie and love the outdoors like I do. First up, we'd hit the ground running with a coffee from one of the local cafes in North Park – they have some of the best brews and the vibe is just unbeatable. Then, a stroll around Balboa Park is a must; it's not just about the stunning architecture and gardens, but also the art studios and little hidden gems that make it a creative's paradise.
For lunch, we'd grab some fresh, innovative cuisine at Liberty Public Market. The variety is incredible, and it's a great spot to soak in the local flavors and artisanal crafts. As the day winds down, catching a sunset at Sunset Cliffs is non-negotiable. It's breathtakingly beautiful and the perfect way to end a day of exploration.
And because no visit is complete without experiencing San Diego's vibrant nightlife, we'd cap off the evening in the Gaslamp Quarter. Whether it's live music, a craft cocktail bar, or just people-watching, it's the perfect mix of energy and laid-back California vibe. San Diego has a way of capturing your heart with its beauty and creativity, and I love sharing that with friends who come to visit.
Thank you for your time today. Please let our readers know how they can find you and follow your journey.
Absolutely, it's been a pleasure chatting with you! For anyone looking to dive deeper into the world of brand design, entrepreneurship, or just in need of some vibrant inspiration, you can find me and the MKW Creative Co. team across various platforms. Our website, mkwcreative.co, is the hub for all things branding, where we share our latest projects, insights, and tips for building a brand that stands out.
Don't miss out on our podcast, 'Kiss My Aesthetic,' available on all major podcast platforms. It's your go-to for creative entrepreneurship advice, branding strategies, and a behind-the-scenes look at running a design agency with a punch of personality. Plus, for daily doses of inspiration and to join a community of like-minded creatives, follow us on Instagram @mkwcreative.co and join our Facebook group, 'Kiss My Aesthetic.'
We're all about making brand design accessible, fun, and impactful, so whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner looking to refresh your brand, we're here to help. Let's make something amazing together!