OEN Member Spotlight: Elicia Putnam, Founder of The Shop

Name/Name of company

The Shop, a modern branding agency.

How long has your product/service/company been in the market?

Since 2001.

How did you determine need for product/service (or why do anticipate a need)?

What we’ve found is that most companies are so eager to jump into the what of their marketing plan, that they rush through the most important part: the why of their marketing plan. That’s why we focus on working with companies to cultivate their authentic brand story. Through highly interactive workshop processes, we collaboratively uncover the nugget that makes companies amazing. We then help translate this nugget into emotionally compelling materials that appeal to the head and heart of consumers – the best way to keep them coming back!

Why did you choose Oregon to start your business?

Because it’s an amazing place to live and offers the perfect environment for clear thinking and great partnerships.

What are your impressions of the entrepreneurial community in Oregon?

Overall, I think it’s vibrant and growing, and manifests endless possibilities.

How would you like to see it grow/change?

I’d like to see all companies – not just start-ups – incorporate a 1 spirit of entrepreneurship in their corporate model. This spirit, I believe, lies at the heart of innovation. And given our current economic crisis, it will take an unyielding commitment to innovation to find a better and healthier way to do business.

How are you involved in the community and how has it helped shape your business?

I’ve personally been involved with the Bend community in urban planning issues and ensuring that the growth of our community happens in a sustainable and equitable fashion.

Our company has been involved with the public school system through Caldera, a program that brings the arts to the classroom. Our company sponsors and participates on the board of AdFed and other marketing organizations to help foster a sense of camaraderie in the advertising and design community.

Our company also works with a number of pro bono clients including a community volunteer organization, a skateboard park for kids, an urban planning non-profit, among others.

How does OEN assist you/how are you specifically benefiting from the organization?

They say that OEN is here for entrepreneurs, investors, and service providers. I happen to be all three. I first got involved with OEN through a business plan class. I started attending Pub Talks and other events geared towards entrepreneurs. Through the network, I’ve come to know the landscape of the business community, which has been invaluable to me in building our business. I’m now an investor in the Oregon Angel Fund and in the Women’s Investment Network. I’ve even led a branding webinar through the OEN series. I guess you could say I’m an OEN groupie!

What I particularly love about OEN is the commitment of all members and the 1 interest in what others are doing and how they got to where they are. The people I’ve met are smart, funny and absolutely invested in keeping the Oregon business community healthy and thriving.

What are your favorite websites/magazines/events that you read/attend to keep yourself informed about the business community/your specific market?

I keep up on blogs (AdRants, etc.) and read the usual publications like BrandWeek, Advertising Age, etc. I also avidly read the NY Times to keep up on current events as these have the greatest impact on our industry.

Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?