Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelley Shaw-Wade.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
On a whim, I started Pinkergreen in 2002 with big expectations and zero experience. In the past 16 years, our mini agency, maxi studio has blossomed into a thriving graphic design and branding firm, built 100% by referrals. I’m beyond proud of my creative team who each wears way too many hats and takes incredible care of our beloved clients and with a keen eye to detail and original thinking — even when their completely tapped out. I primarily serve as the team’s Creative Director and Jane of All Trades.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not been a smooth road, but it hasn’t been treacherous either. I’ve had encouragement from so many friends and family and most importantly, my husband who supported us when I was barely making ends meet. I worked two jobs for a VERY long time while Pinkergreen was gaining clients and put as much possible as I could back into the company. To say that Pinkergreen, my first born, is and was supported by a village, is a gross understatement. I think that timing was both harmful and helpful for me. I naively started this business right out of school with zero experience. Had I had the same financial burdens I currently have with a safe job (ie. mortgage, childcare expenses, etc.) I never would have had the guts to pursue this career dream I’ve had since a kid. Had I waited though, I would have had a slew of more professional connections from which to build our client base. Be bold, be strong and be willing to learn and take a few gut punches along the way.
what should we know about Pinkergreen? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We call Pinkergreen a “maxi studio” and a “mini agency.” We’re doing branding and print and digital graphic design for small to mid-sized businesses, both B2B and B2C. As an agency, we’re developing ad campaigns for non-profits and for-profit businesses alike. I am most proud of the fact that we are entirely referral-based—our team takes incredible care of our clients and it shows. Our clients can find similar services elsewhere, but they choose to work with us because we truly care about and respect their opinions.
Do you have a lesson or advice you’d like to share with young women just starting out?
Listen. Carefully. I knew very little about running a business, or helping clients make business decisions for themselves when I began Pinkergreen. So many people offered free advice, words of wisdom and shared messy mistakes that have helped form how we run our business and treat our customers. You never know who might provide you with that type of information, so well — listen. Listen and be patient.
Contact Info:
- Address: 46 Waltham Street, Suite 308 Boston, MA 02118
- Website: pinkergreen.com
- Phone: 617-532-1081
- Email: info@pinkergreen.com
- Instagram: @pinkergreen
- Facebook: facebook.com/pinkergreen
- Twitter: @pinkergreen
Image Credit:
Anna Bloxham
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