HLK

A big thank you again to the American Cancer Society for selecting HLK as the winner of the 2020 Excellence in Engagement Award. ICYMI, check out our work on the #42Doors of Hope public awareness campaign. https://bit.ly/3pW70hd

As a company that does a lot of agricultural communications, we were thrilled to take home more than 20 awards and secure first place in several categories in the 2020 National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) Awards. See our latest blog post to learn how we delivered creative solutions to complex problems across the ag industry. https://bit.ly/378VDfs

We love it when an HLKer’s talent spills outside of their job description especially when it results in handmade holiday cards. Last month, Senior Art Director Andrea Corless designed these beautiful punch-out mailers, and our in-house letterpress whizz @westparkcreativestl printed them in his home studio.

When Amanda isn’t solving for the best user experience, she’s out trotting the globe. Her travel blog and social presence developed as a result of her dual passions for photography and experiencing different cultures. I was using Instagram to find destinations and look at travel photos, and I thought, ‘why not get in on the action?’ I always thought I had a decent eye for photography, but I'm proud of how it’s developed. I invested in editing software and camera equipment..., and I’ve learned how to use my surroundings better. I may not know what every setting on my camera does, but I know a lot more than I did in February. Amanda hopes that by documenting her experiences, she can provide insight for other travelers and eventually cultivate sponsorship opportunities. Join in her adventures and check out her blog: https://amanda-wanders.com/.

If you check out this year’s AIGA Saint Louis Design Show, you’ll see our recent work with Freely Pet. It was a great opportunity to develop the branding and web design for this refreshingly simple pet food company. The Freely brand was communicated through minimal design and a clear voice to help owners easily understand the nutritional value of their pet food.

One of our talented art directors, Brett Kessinger, recently tricked out these pumpkins to treat our Channel Seed clients. We think he did a gourd-geous job.

Since he joined us in January 2020, Planning Director Kraig Koch has delivered sharp thinking and invaluable insights, so it comes as no surprise that Eastern Illinois University has recognized him with an Outstanding Young Alumnus award. Congratulations, Kraig!

Here’s a wholesome side hustle: Jessy published her first children's book, which is a tale of self-care and nurturing the things you love. Writing a children's book was just something I've always wanted to do. I've never stopped reading them, and I love the ones that deliver a really simple but thoughtful message. Great illustrations certainly don't hurt either. Collaborating with my illustrator was a really fun way to challenge myself creatively outside of work. ‘Don't Water the Plant’ has a takeaway for readers of all ages especially adults. You can find a copy of Jessy’s book Don't Water the Plant on BookBaby: https://store.bookbaby.com/booksh/book/Dont-Water-the-Plant

Next in our summer sabbatical series is Account Director Toni Edinger. Toni spent her time surrounded by the ones she loves most and soaking in every moment. With the current state of the world and the recent quarantine, it was a blessing to have focused time with my family. It was so invaluable.

We all miss the pitter-patter of paws around the office, so we held a virtual dog show for our HLK9s! Our four-legged friends competed for barking rights as Biggest Doggy Diva, Pampered Puppy and other canine-related categories. Click through to see how each pup placed.