Hidden Gems: Meet Caitlin Brunette of Bright Blonde Studio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Caitlin Brunette.

Hi Caitlin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I worked as the in-house marketing & social media manager for one of KC’s favorite bridal shops for the past 3.5 years. We operated four retail brands within the organization, offering everything from high-end bridal gowns to prom & special occasion gowns. It was fascinating to play a role in the marketing of the shop owner’s bridal collection, which she designs herself right here in KC. The collection retails nationally & it was an incredible experience to work on its expansion. It was a job that I loved & was very sad to leave. Still, I am proud of my work there- specifically, the organization, evolution, and growth of our social media presence and marketing reach in recent years.

In search of growth & the opportunity to serve a broader client base, I stepped away from that role in early 2022 and started Bright Blonde Studio. Right out of the gate, I was fortunate to continue working with my former employer as a client and a handful of other exciting brands. Thus, I dove into client work when starting my business and am just beginning to build my brand!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest challenge is finding a comfortable work/life balance as a self-employed creator. When you love your work and constantly find inspiration, it becomes effortless to follow a constant work and planning routine. Marketing is everywhere- our phones, TVs, daily life- so it’s hard to shut my brain off sometimes.

Besides this minor obstacle, I truly loved my new business owner experience! I wake up every day feeling energized by building this platform with so much potential for growth! Most of all, I love working with my clientele. Who are all so invested in the success & marketing of their brands. I love sharing that creative journey with them!

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Bright Blonde Studio?
Bright Blonde Studio is a KC-based digital content studio focused on marketing, advertising, social media, and design work. We are a boutique firm designed specifically for small businesses. Bright Blonde Studio is all about realistic + approachable marketing solutions for business owners who aren’t sure where to start or when it’s time to start over. Services include brand development + design, digital ads management on social media platforms, content planning and coaching, website design, and brand strategy consulting.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
I was born & raised in Leawood. I moved away for many years, swearing I’d never come back here- and yet, here I am! After nearly a decade spent living in Colorado, my husband & I knew it was time to move home in 2018. I’m not surprised that I landed back in KC. The energy, the food, the art, the lifestyle, and the sense of community in KC are almost too good to be true. Sometimes it can be difficult to truly appreciate how incredible this city is until you’ve spent time away, which was certainly the case for me. As soon as I was ready to put down roots & start a family, I returned to this place.

I have two favorite childhood memories growing up in KC- they’re cliche, but every KC native will agree that they are heartwarming & special. First, spending Christmas Eve on the plaza, driving home down Ward Parkway, and looking at all the beautiful holiday lights. Second, our annual trip to the Louisburg Cider Mill for pumpkins & hot donuts in the fall- a tradition I now share with my baby girl!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.brightblondestudio.com (Launching Sept 2022)
• Instagram: @brightblondestudio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brightblondestudio

Image Credits
My headshot was photographed by Aaron Phelps (@ar_phelps)