Caylen Clark
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
My path has been shaped by curiosity and collaboration, working with innovative teams at agencies like Wieden+Kennedy and Anomaly. I've led impactful campaigns for brands such as Ubisoft and Oculus, balancing big-picture strategy with hands-on execution. I've also been marketing leads amongst large companies like AT&T and PAIGE. Along the way, I’ve also built my own creative ventures, like Clark Dunn Studio, where I merge storytelling with design to deliver meaningful results for clients.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I stand out by blending strategic rigor with creative intuition, honed through a genuine love of collaboration and client relationships. My ability to craft campaigns that resonate emotionally while driving measurable impact has been key. I thrive on collaboration, turning unique insights into ideas that connect deeply with audiences.
Q What are you working on right now?
I'm currently freelancing, working on brand building for Everyday.World, and consulting for athlete influencer management at The Society, LLC.
Q What’s your style?
My style is rooted in authenticity and storytelling, blending bold, modern design with thoughtful details that create emotional connections. A project that reflects this is the PAIGE Athlete Ambassador program, where I crafted a community-driven initiative that grew their male audience by 30% across all social platforms. Examples can be found here.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
If time/resources weren't an option, I’d love to dedicate more time to growing Clark Dunn Studio, our interior design business where we create spaces that feel both functional and inspiring. Interior design lets me combine my love for storytelling and aesthetics in a new medium, crafting environments that reflect individuality. Building this brand and connecting with clients on a deeply personal level has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m excited to see where we can take it next.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Growing Clark Dunn Studio has its challenges, especially balancing the creative side with the operational demands of running a business. The task that often lands at the bottom of the list is managing the business development side—building new relationships and expanding our client base. It's easy to get caught up in the design work, but staying focused on networking and strategic growth is crucial for long-term success.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I’d hire someone to manage the administrative side of Clark Dunn Studio—organizing client communications, scheduling, and handling the back-and-forth of project logistics. This would free up more of my time to focus on creative work and strategy.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
If I could go back in time, I’d tell myself that it’s okay to not feel creatively fulfilled in certain roles, especially in a large company like AT&T where the scope is broader and processes are more rigid. The struggles I faced working across so many functions taught me a lot, but I wish I had been easier on myself for making the decision to leave. There’s no shame in recognizing that a corporate environment doesn’t always align with personal growth and creativity—what matters is learning from the experience and using it to fuel future success.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
If I could talk to an expert, I’d love to dive deeper into group brainstorming techniques and strategies for creating an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute, no matter the size of their input. I believe that fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture is key to unlocking creativity and driving a team’s mission forward, and I’d love to learn how to make that process more effective in diverse group settings.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I'm looking for opportunities that focus on marketing strategy, brand building, and go-to-market initiatives. I thrive in roles where I can develop and execute creative campaigns that resonate with audiences and drive measurable results. Whether it's leading a brand's launch or refining its positioning, I’m excited to work on projects that allow me to make a strategic impact.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal collaboration would be with clients in the tech or athlete space, where innovation meets impact. I’m drawn to opportunities that challenge the status quo and allow me to blend creativity, strategy, with a client's specific vision or goal. Whether it's working with emerging tech brands, sports agencies, or fashion, I’m excited to help shape how they connect with their audience and bring their vision to life.
Q: What is your rate?
For my services, my hourly rate typically falls between $70 and $100, depending on the scope and complexity of the project. This range is in line with industry standards for freelance brand strategists and marketing consultants. I also offer flexible pricing depending on the type of work, whether it’s a one-time campaign, long-term brand strategy, or ongoing consulting, ensuring my rates are accessible for small businesses, startups, and nonprofits
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Reading design books, traveling, and getting lost in bookstores.
This member profile was originally published in November 2024.