It feels surreal that a year ago (10/10/2019) CCA was formed. For those of you who do not know me, allow me to introduce myself and how my business came to be. For those who do know me already, this will probably be one of the more serious notes you ever read from me.

A little over a year ago I was in a rut. Creatively, I thrive on being able to bring ideas to life – both through design and writing. And at that time, I was at a place mentally (and physically) where my passion was just not being carried out. I knew at that moment; I was ready to make a change.

At first, I thought maybe I just needed to explore other job opportunities. Perhaps in a position where I knew I would have the chance to climb that proverbial corporate ladder. After going through a couple of interviews, I quickly realized that was not going to resolve what I felt I was lacking. So then what would?

I can clearly remember this day. It was right before my birthday. My husband travels as a software consultant and he was away on business that week. I had spent my day at a networking event and was rushing back from Boston so that I could pick my son up from school. I knew I was going to be late getting to him. Traffic was BRUTAL as always coming out of the city. I picked up the phone and I called my husband. We chatted for a few, and I finally said to him, I think I know what I need to do. What do you think of me starting my own marketing consulting business?

New Hampshire is a state comprised of many small businesses. Yes, there are a variety of marketing firms already established here. But for the price point, they do not necessarily represent your “mom and pops”. I knew my goal was going to be providing these small businesses with a high-level marketing experience without the high cost. So, I got to work, and put together a business plan!

Now here we are, a year later. Doing something that a year ago was just a distant dream. For anyone who is considering starting their own business or has also recently done so, I will be the first to admit that it is one of the most terrifying yet rewarding experiences. When I set out to do this, I had no idea what was in store. Case in point, when COVID-19 hit in February. I know that I could not have done this without my support system of family, friends, and colleagues. You have listened to me talk endlessly about my goals. And you have also wiped away tears (sometimes even via FaceTime) as we have all spent months unsure what the future holds. I could not be more grateful to have you all in my life. You are truly amazing human beings!

To our clients, gosh I do not even know where to start. Thank you for believing in this business. For taking a chance on us. And for referring us to your friends and colleagues. I think that is the greatest gift I could receive from you. To know that you were so pleased with the work that CCA produced for you, that you referred us to someone close to you. I know that we are beyond blessed to have your support, and my appreciation of that is something that I do not think that I could put into words. This year has been a weird one, and I am honored that you have allowed us to be a part of building your brand.

On that note, I will wrap this up with a final thank you. Here is to another great year! Now, let’s all get out there and kick the last quarter of 2020’s ass.