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Creative Direction for Strategic Growth.

Straightforward Creative refines how our clients present themselves to the world, and offers solutions that clarify, grow and define brands and voices in meaningful ways. Clients benefit from holistic, forward-thinking, connected strategies—firmly rooted in their values, culture, differentiators and objectives—that enable them to form deeper, genuine connections to their audience, colleagues and communities.  

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Client services are tailored to vary in depth, breadth and focus, including:

  • Brand Strategy, Evolution & Implementation

  • Creative Direction & Design Program Management

  • Marketing Program Strategy & Direction

  • Messaging Strategy, Copywriting, Storytelling, Naming

  • Content Strategy, Curation & Direction

  • Strategic Planning & Leadership Advising

  • Organizational Assessment

  • Social Media Strategy & Direction

  • Architectural & Editorial Photography Art Direction

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Chief Strategist & Creative Spirit:  Catherine Dauer

Catherine Lipsetz Dauer_Straightforward

Catherine Dauer founded Straightforward Creative in 2007. A trusted brand strategist, advisor, content creator and marketing program partner, her perspective is informed by decades of experience in the design, building, arts and cultural communities.

 

With an acuity for visual communications, an intuitive nature, and a keen interest in healthy organizations, Catherine balances right and left brain tendencies to arrive at solutions with her clients that balance smart business and a deep connection to design thinking. 

Prior to founding Straightforward Creative, Catherine directed brand development, marketing and communications for a prominent San Francisco Bay Area custom builder as it expanded into regional and national markets. Previous experience includes roles in development, audience engagement, and program management in arts, higher education and business. She earned her BA from the University of Cincinnati School of Design, Art, Architecture & Planning in Art History and Architecture, with studies in fine art and creative writing.

Giving back and community involvement is integral to Straightforward's business ethos.

Catherine has served in Board leadership, advisory and volunteer positions with arts, civic and human services non-profit organizations, as well as an invited guest critic and panelist for architecture and graphic design.

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Over the years Straightforward Creative has supported numerous initiatives and organizations near and far whose work promotes basic human and civil rights, provides access to factual information, offers opportunity and fosters healthy community including, including:

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