We love what we do; and we want to make you shine.
ABOUT US
At Step2 Branding and Design, we believe that every person, business, or organization is great at something. Perhaps your product or service is similar to others, but you add special value that gives you an advantage over them. Or you have a unique way of doing things that distinguishes you in a positive way.
We provide branding and identity, graphic design, copywriting, and web design services for B2B, B2C, retail, specialized industries, early stage/start-ups, charities, and foundations. We help them connect with their prospects, build customer loyalty, and add value to their brands.
How did we get here?
Many roads, folks, many roads.
Years at ad agencies, design studios, and PR firms. Stints of free-lancing and contract work.
Corporate communications (public and private), manufacturers, and tech bros.
We’ve survived the excesses and grind of the agencies.
We’ve dealt with the bureaucracy and politics of corporate America.
And all along, we balanced it with family, relationships, and enjoying life.
Indeed, it’s been a long journey.
Today, we’re doing something different. And it’s a lot more fulfilling both personally and professionally.
We’ve removed all the layers and cut the bloat. We’ve held onto what works and tossed away what doesn’t.
We’ve distilled it with talent, experience, and humility to create a client experience — a relationship — that is open, transparent, and accountable.
And keeps them involved every step of the way.
And we’re making a difference.
It’s so much better this way. We hope you can join us for the ride.
MEET OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
RON MACDONALD
PRESIDENT, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, FOUNDER
With 40+ years of creative marketing and branding experience, Ron carved out his role by delivering quick results, high-quality work, and a do-what-it-takes work ethic.
Prior to founding Step2 Branding and Design in 2009 with his wife, Karen, Ron spent a dozen years working at ad agencies, design studios, and PR firms serving B2B, retail, and nonprofit clients. He followed that with nearly 15 years managing and directing marketing communications for three technology firms, including one start-up.
In his spare time, Ron collects rare and unreleased music and can guarantee you that he has stuff you never heard.
VICE PRESIDENT, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, FOUNDER
KAREN MACDONALD
Having previously worked for consumer goods manufacturers like GlaxoSmithKline and Action Industries, Karen brings to the agency vast packaging and product design experience. Her creative mind is complemented by a keen grasp of the regulatory requirements of consumer product packaging.
Karen’s specialties include graphic design, logos & identity, brochure design, packaging, photo direction, and cartooning.
She also has significant experience at the world’s most important job: raising a family.
Karen spends her spare time volunteering at Animal Friends and creating memorial portraits of departed pets.
So, now that you’ve learned about us, we’d like to learn about you.
Let’s talk about how we can help make you shine.