We’re absolutely over-the-moon excited to introduce Rachel to the team!
Rachel was introduced to us by Rachael Ward (yep, same first name!), a long-time friend and designer. After some initial conversations, we brought Rachel on for a few contract projects, and through a series of fun collaborations and informal chats, we knew she was the perfect fit. By mid-2024, we were thrilled to offer her a full-time position!
Rachel’s background is refreshingly “nontraditional” for our industry, which makes her perspective and skill set all the more valuable. She began her career in print publications, working on titles covering knitting, crochet, mixed media arts, writing instruction, and more hobby and special interest books. From there, she transitioned into marketing as a content editor, gaining expertise in content strategy, campaign development, and creative leadership.
We are already seeing how Rachel’s unique journey and talents bring fresh creativity and inspiration to our team. We took a little time to ask some “get to know ya” questions. Check ’em below!
What are you learning in your new role?
- Step back to step forward. With so much going on, and so many moving parts to every project, I’ve gotten a crash course in what it takes to keep work moving — and also what it takes to keep from getting overwhelmed. So many times, I’ve had to pause, catch my breath, and intentionally slow down so I can surge forward.
- It’s OK to not know. For a long time within my career, I prided myself in being an expert in my discipline. Coming to CreativeFuse and this role, I’m finding daily that I don’t always know the answer. Learning how to be comfortable and vulnerable with that fact was the first step in beginning to assemble a team around me that complemented my knowledge by filling in the gaps.
- Growth never feels like a big leap. Instead it’s a series of small, incremental steps, and many of them feel uncomfortable. If you’re expecting to feel a moment where you’ve “arrived” into growth, that probably won’t come. But you’ll look back at the past six months and be able to see the progression.
Favorite food?
The How Fun from AmerAsia in Covington is phenomenal.
Favorite book?
The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman; there are many, many others, but TGC got me into fantasy as a genre and inspired me to write creatively.
Hobbies?
I’ve been a knitter for about 15 years; I started in college after a friend’s mother taught me the basic stitches. Now I knit just about every garment possible (except socks, I hate making them). Shawls, sweaters, and cowls are my favorite patterns to make.
What would you like to share with readers?
I’ve thrived in this industry because it’s people-focused and solution-oriented, and because within an agency, there’s never a dull moment and always a new challenge to solve. If we’re working together right now, know that your successes are mine; I care so much about the work we do together, and it’s a real privilege to operate with the trust you give me. If we get the chance to work together in the future, I can’t wait to meet you and build something meaningful together.
