OCREATIVE® - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- CEO
- Chief Creative Officer
Andrea Koeppel focuses on exploring the best in people. From nurturing the talent of her dedicated team to finding the creative spark in her clients, it's Andrea's ability to identify what moves people that drives Ocreative's tenacity. When asked what motivates her as a CEO and creative, Andrea's answer was simple: "The people! Whether it's our creative and super supportive team or our awesome clients, every day, I'm surrounded by the very best people and that makes every day one that I look forward to."Andrea's people-first philosophy permeates every aspect of her work. From creating a culture of respect, support, and authenticity to encouraging clients to amplify their unique voice, Andrea works to magnify the best in everyone. Pair this level of empathy with an impressive and storied background in design and business administration and you've got a creative tour de force.Andrea started building her skills at University of Wisconsin - Stout, working in the graphic design department. She went from designing handbooks and lunch menus to freelancing for a series of nonprofits and quickly found her stride in the world of marketing and advertising. Andrea began Ocreative on November 1, 2003 as a one-woman show and has worked tirelessly, since then, to turn the small freelancing business into a full-fledged, multi-disciplinary, creative powerhouse.
Her persistent drive is marked by her pursuit of continuous learning. Since starting a business, Andrea has been trained in color theory by Leatrice Eiseman, world-renowned color expert from the Pantone Color Institute, mastered numerous art mediums, explored cutting-edge marketing and design techniques, offered thought leadership to the industry, has been recognized an exceptional leader, and has vowed to never stop learning.
A mother to two teenage boys, Jared and Grady, and married to her best friend and business partner Matt Koeppel, Andrea keeps just as busy at home as at work. When she does have a spare moment, she finds inspiration in gardening: "Plants ask for so little, but give so much beauty, nourishment, and they strengthen our connection to the earth." Spending her free time with her family, including a very sweet cat named Kitty Perry and our notorious office pup, Wendy, Andrea makes the most out of every moment, finding joy in the small things and turning that beauty into a creative force for good.
Baylee Willard brings a fresh take on marketing to Ocreative as she finishes her bachelor's degree in communication with a focus on integrated marketing at Mount Mary University. As a creative problem solver with a tenacious mind for data, Baylee focuses on developing clear reports for our clients which drive crucial insights for our marketing strategy. With her focus on Google Analytics and user trends, Baylee ensures our clients receive accurate and reliable traffic and web data to better leverage their marketing budgets and maximize impact.
While receiving her associate degree in marketing from Waukesha County Technical College, Baylee also worked with a wide range of individuals and families at a dental clinic. She managed to balance a full course schedule and a full-time job to pursue her marketing goals thoughtfully, efficiently, and successfully and she brings that drive and organization to everything she does for Ocreative. Her time at the dental clinic also gave her unique experience in providing support to patients during stressful times, allowing her to better manage expectations and help others overcome obstacles.
In her free time, when she's not finishing her degree or working with Ocreative, Baylee loves to spend time outdoors, hiking and camping with her dog Mana, a German Shepard/Husky mix and one heck of a spitfire. And while she's incredible data-driven, Baylee enjoys several creative pursuits as well, often working on graphite and charcoal drawings and making digital designs for gaming streamers on Twitch. When it comes to living life, Baylee is truly multi-faceted.
Job Titles:
- Senior Graphic Designer, Photographer
Caylin Rosene has a natural talent for understanding perspective - in both graphic and interpersonal terms. While she does have a keen eye for positioning and layout, it's her ability to truly absorb client experiences and translate them into tangible, impactful design that makes her an incredible creative.
When asked what she enjoys talking to clients about most, Caylin explained that "one of the best things to talk about with clients is their industry and what they do as a career." In fact, Caylin draws a lot of her design inspiration directly from her interactions with clients "We work with a lot of clients who are passionate about where they work and what they do, and it's always exciting to have a conversation with them where we get to learn about the ins and outs of a field - to get that knowledge that only comes with working within the industry."
This drive to learn more, experience more, and do more is a cornerstone of Caylin's life philosophy. Her passion for education started at the University of Wisconsin - Stout where she graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design and Interactive Media with a concentration in Graphic Design, as well as minors in Art History and Photography & Video. She continues to grow her vast skillset using traditional methods like research, tutorials, and webinars, but it's in-person experiences that she benefits from most. "…We have such a great support network at Ocreative where we can encourage and help each other learn how to do new things. One of the best ways for me to learn a new skill is by doing it, and I have had countless opportunities since I joined the [Ocreative] team."
Caylin's passion for experience is evident in her spirit for adventure. From hiking through national parks to Alaskan wildlife tours, Caylin is always eager to explore the wonders of nature. Always ready with her camera at hand, Caylin takes advantage of every opportunity to capture the beauty of the landscapes she visits and preserve them for years to come. Whether it's spending time with her cat (who we all think is part racoon) Luna , AKA Tuna, AKA Luna Tuna, AKA Tuna Fish, AKA Little Demon, or planning her next trip, Caylin carries these experiences with her and uses them to create thoughtful and meaningful design that leaves an impact.
Jerrie Ceplina-Weinschenk facilitates thoughtful strategic planning by taking a multi-faceted approach to marketing and project development. From mapping out omni-channel marketing campaigns to creating detailed production schedules, Jerrie works to take a measured and clear approach to her projects. "I like creating clear pathways to success," says Jerrie "there's something to be said about making marketing approachable for everyone. It doesn't have to be some mysterious or secret thing. Everyone is a little bit of a marketer in their own way."
In fact, that's part of Jerrie's marketing philosophy. Jerrie works with Ocreative clients from project conception, through design and development, all the way to implementation. "I think it's important for our clients to know exactly what we're doing and why we're making the decisions we are," says Jerrie. As a Director of Marketing, Jerrie spends her time reviewing existing client campaigns and exploring ways to connect their initiatives into one, powerful campaign. "It is fun to work with the team and pull in everyone's strengths to make the very best project we can. I get such a kick out of creating detailed production schedules that clearly outline how all pieces of a project come together." Jerrie explains "It feels really wonderful to see clients get excited about marketing and want to get involved."
While marketing is her passion, Jerrie wasn't always on the agency track. Jerrie graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Madison with B.A.s in Political Science with an emphasis in international politics, and International Studies with an emphasis in international law while completing a certificate in Slavic Studies. Graduating at the height of the Great Recession in 2009, Jerrie deferred law school to join the workforce. After spending five years in Chicago working for a multi-billion-dollar global e-Commerce company and later, an international e-commerce conglomerate, Jerrie made her way back to Wisconsin, joining the Ocreative team in 2018. "It took me a long time to get here," says Jerrie "but now that I've joined the Ocreative team, I feel like I've found my passion and my purpose."
When she's not writing copy, developing schedules, or developing marketing strategy, Jerrie can be found spending time with her wife, Maisie, their dog Liska, and their two cats Zuma and Fynn. She also likes to pick up new skills and hobbies that allow her to work with her hands and explore the more creative side of her personality. It's Jerrie's dedication to detail and her ability to meaningfully engage with clients that really helps set a successful foundation for our projects.
Job Titles:
- Graphic Designer
- Illustrator
Kelsey Becker is a process-oriented creative who takes a holistic approach to design work. From discussing industry-specific details with clients to analyzing contemporary approaches to user experience, Kelsey works to truly balance function with form. "I love the variety of clients and industries we work with!" Kelsey explains "It allows me to stretch different design muscles."
Working directly with clients is how Kelsey thrives: "My favorite part is talking with a client at the beginning of a project and diving into their goals and the excitement that comes with the potential of a project." It's this one-on-one communication that really drives Kelsey's ability to pinpoint the goals of a project and create a beautiful mechanism to relay their messaging and objectives. "I love getting a sense for which way [client] design aesthetics lean." she explains while discussing what she enjoys most about the work.
"I try to bring a more organic, human touch to my designs, which I think stems from my painting/drawing background." Kelsey points out "It's important for my personal process to lay all my ideas onto the ‘page' and really dive into playing with different options and combinations to create unique designs. It's in that process that I explore new ideas."
Kelsey's respect for the creative process stems from her early and continual love for fine arts. She started by teaching herself the techniques and processes of various art mediums like acrylic and oil paints and quickly found her way into graphic design. Her curiosity led her to the digital space where she taught herself Photoshop and Illustrator. As her skills developed, she started her graphic design career in the nonprofit industry, developing marketing materials while pursuing an associate degree in graphic design from WCTC. After a few years in the agency world, Kelsey joined the Ocreative team in 2018.
An avid animal-lover and dedicated vegetarian, Kelsey is a proud parent to her fur-daughter, Nellie Bean Becker. From photoshoots to finding the perfect bone, Kelsey lives to spoil her dog and has committed herself to giving Nell the best life possible after her rough start to life. Kelsey also spends her free time working on complex oil paintings. It's this passion for the arts and her incredible sensitivity that empower Kelsey to make beautiful, intuitive designs that leave an impact.
Lisa Simplot is our behind-the-scenes person who helps with the financial side of the company. She was a bookkeeper and office manager for a window company for 30 years as well as a business owner with her husband of 37 years. They have since retired. Although she only works part-time, she brings the knowledge of her years of experience to the company.
She and her husband have 3 beautiful adult children and a new grandbaby which they adore. They enjoy the time they get to spend with their children sharing meals, playing cards and spending time outdoors. Family is their life. They reside in Colorado so camping and fishing trips are on the calendar year-round.
Lisa as controller, works closely with Andrea, orchestrating the monetary aspects of Ocreative from behind the scenes. With an impressive 30-year career as a bookkeeper and office manager for a window company, coupled with her decades of experience as co-owner of a family-owned business, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the team despite being part-time.
Lisa and her husband live in Colorado and relish every moment they share with their family and new grandbaby, whether it's enjoying meals together, playing card games, or taking in the outdoor tranquility of the West.
Job Titles:
- Chief Business Development Officer
- Business Partner
Andrea Koeppel focuses on exploring the best in people. From nurturing the talent of her dedicated team to finding the creative spark in her clients, it's Andrea's ability to identify what moves people that drives Ocreative's tenacity. When asked what motivates her as a CEO and creative, Andrea's answer was simple: "The people! Whether it's our creative and super supportive team or our awesome clients, every day, I'm surrounded by the very best people and that makes every day one that I look forward to."Andrea's people-first philosophy permeates every aspect of her work. From creating a culture of respect, support, and authenticity to encouraging clients to amplify their unique voice, Andrea works to magnify the best in everyone. Pair this level of empathy with an impressive and storied background in design and business administration and you've got a creative tour de force.Andrea started building her skills at University of Wisconsin - Stout, working in the graphic design department. She went from designing handbooks and lunch menus to freelancing for a series of nonprofits and quickly found her stride in the world of marketing and advertising. Andrea began Ocreative on November 1, 2003 as a one-woman show and has worked tirelessly, since then, to turn the small freelancing business into a full-fledged, multi-disciplinary, creative powerhouse.
Her persistent drive is marked by her pursuit of continuous learning. Since starting a business, Andrea has been trained in color theory by Leatrice Eiseman, world-renowned color expert from the Pantone Color Institute, mastered numerous art mediums, explored cutting-edge marketing and design techniques, offered thought leadership to the industry, has been recognized an exceptional leader, and has vowed to never stop learning.
A mother to two teenage boys, Jared and Grady, and married to her best friend and business partner Matt Koeppel, Andrea keeps just as busy at home as at work. When she does have a spare moment, she finds inspiration in gardening: "Plants ask for so little, but give so much beauty, nourishment, and they strengthen our connection to the earth." Spending her free time with her family, including a very sweet cat named Kitty Perry and our notorious office pup, Wendy, Andrea makes the most out of every moment, finding joy in the small things and turning that beauty into a creative force for good.
Matt Koeppel works tirelessly to approach challenges from every angle before offering a solution. While he is the Chief Business Development Officer for Ocreative, he's also a business development champion for our clients. His approach to clients starts with respect and understanding, develops into a trusting relationship, and turns into a rewarding partnership.
"I enjoy helping people." Says Matt, "I love using my knowledge and expertise to help other businesses grow. I like connecting people with the resources they need to be successful." His unique combination of computer science and business administration experience really helps to connect the dots for our clients. He translates technical jargon and data into relatable information with ease, which helps our clients feel confident in their marketing plans, especially as they relate to the digital environment.
While his passion is website design and development, he takes a strategic, omni-channel approach to every marketing challenge we meet. "Everything has a combination of strategy, messaging, visuals, user experience, and technical aspects that we manage to weave together into an amazing piece," Matt explains "whether it is a printed brochure, website or video, they all have that same level of passion and dedication from our team."
Matt first found his passion for web programming and design at UW-Stout where he met Andrea, his soon-to-be wife and later, business partner. After adding a business administration minor, he began working with professors on campus to set up remote learning platforms and building websites. Matt hit the online wave very early on and has since continued to take in everything he can about business, marketing strategy, and technology.
When he's not helping Ocreative to grow, Matt can be found continuously working on home projects or spending time with their two boys, Jared and Grady. Chances are likely, if you see Matt outside of work, he's got some kind of power tool nearby. It's this dedication and passion to making things better that sets Matt aside from a regular sales role and makes him an exceptional marketing partner and strategist.
Paul Campbell is more than our in-house, senior web developer; he works to bring all our marketing creations to life in the digital space. If you've worked with Ocreative, you know we don't believe in templates - everything we do is custom to the client. Which is really exciting, and sometimes, very arduous for Paul, but he's an incredible problem-solver and really believes in the power of collaboration.
From exploring new layout techniques with our design team to working with clients, one-on-one, to developing function and user experience strategies, Paul is all about coming together to make the best product for our clients. "I always try to research better solutions for design hurdles," Paul explains "[I] stay up to date with industry news and popular forums for web developers to follow what is trending."
Paul's love for website design and development has really thrived during his time with Ocreative, but his curiosity for computers and the web started very early on in his life. "I have been working with computers since I was in 8 th grade," says Paul, "I built computers and my first website in early high school. After high school attended WCTC and graduated from their web design program." Paul continued to develop his skills at the agency level until joining Ocreative in 2013.
While Paul offers great technical support and programming skills to our clients, he's not your typical web developer. Paul spends most of his free time outside, enjoying nature. From expertly planned trips to national parks to hike and rock climbing to weekends golfing, chances are, if it's after hours, you're not going to find Paul behind a computer. Paul and his wife, Samantha, love spending time with friends and family and taking adventures together. It's Paul's adventurous spirit in both life and at work that set him apart as a developer - his innate curiosity helps propel our digital capabilities into the future.
Vannah is a passionate marketer with a deep love for copywriting and everything related to marketing. Her creativity knows no bounds when crafting engaging content that captures attention and drives results.
One of her greatest sources of inspiration is her love for reading. She intentionally explores different genres and writing styles to help her think outside of the box and develop innovative marketing strategies. By immersing herself in various books, she constantly expands her knowledge and finds new ways to connect with diverse audiences.
Her creative energy doesn't stop at marketing. She has also cultivated a strong presence in the beauty world, where she enjoys posting personal content. Sharing her thoughts, experiences, and recommendations allows her to tap into her artistic side and connect with others who share her passion for beauty.
When she's not immersed in the worlds of marketing and beauty, her favorite pastime is spending quality time with her son. As a dedicated mother, she cherishes every opportunity to create lasting memories with her little one. Whether reading books together, exploring nature, or engaging in imaginative play, these moments bring her joy and balance in her busy life.