It’s fall again, and we are welcoming Natalia Meave, our newest intern rocker, to our marketing team. We’re so excited to learn more about Natalia, aren’t you? We asked her a few questions to get to know her better. She’s a student at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in advertising and minoring in business. Natalia loves creative strategy, storytelling and finding fresh ways to connect with audiences. We love that you chose us Natalia!
What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?
The biggest misconception about marketing today is that it’s just a tool to sell things to people. Marketing is way more than just transactional; it connects people across cultures and shapes the way we view the world!
What advice would Natalia give to her younger self?
Let go of self-doubt. True growth only happens when you aren’t confined to limiting beliefs!
What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?
The art of “boiling” problems down to their essence in order to reach solutions more efficiently, as taught by my business law professor. Identifying a clear, main reason behind an action clears the way for creativity and strategy to blossom.
What does good brand strategy look like?
Good brand strategy starts with knowing your audience deeply. Genuine connection between brands and customers is crucial in building the loyalty that is foundational to long-term brand success.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?
I would go to Mexico City right now. Cool sunny weather, gorgeous architecture, unbeatable vintage shopping, and endless options for the best food you’ll ever have in your life — you just can’t beat it!
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?
Probably someone like Morgan Freeman. I’d like to hear all of the Hollywood stories and secrets with objectively the best voice in the history of narration.
If you could describe Natalia Meave in three words what would they be?
Authentic, vibrant, and driven.
Tell us about a major milestone in your life?
One of my proudest milestones has been taking on leadership roles in the various organizations I’ve been involved in.
From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?
Front Porch does the hands on work that drives real results for our clients. We work closely and personally with every client, getting to know their business from the inside out to deliver unique results.
This summer, we’re welcoming a second high school intern from Ursuline: Lucy Sanders. Lucy is a rising senior at Ursuline Academy in Dallas. She is interested in expanding her knowledge of advertising and marketing while collaborating on creative, impactful projects. We asked Lucy a few questions so our readers could get to know her a little better.
What makes you want to have a career in marketing?
I want to have a career in marketing because I have always been a creative person and enjoy coming up with new ideas. Marketing gives me the chance to use my creativity to help businesses connect with target audiences and share their messages.I think a common misconception about marketing is that a brand’s reputation relies mainly on a marketer’s direct efforts. Instead, positive brand perception is built through intentional relationships between the brand and its consumers.
What is one of the biggest lessons you have learned so far in your life?
Stop worrying about what others might think. Do what makes YOU happy because those who love and accept you won’t judge you for being yourself.
If you could describe Lucy Sanders in three words what would they be?
I would describe myself as creative, optimistic, and compassionate.
What are your goals for your time at Front Porch Marketing?
My goals during my time at Front Porch Marketing are to expand my knowledge of marketing and gain hands-on experience in a professional environment. I am excited to learn new skills and apply them while working on real projects.communicating that voice is for the marketer to see their brand through their consumers’ eyes.
What do you think a good brand strategy should look like?
A good brand strategy focuses on the core principles of the brand’s actions and decisions. From there, the brand can establish a visually appealing identity through the color palette, logo, and overall aesthetic that appeals to their target audience.
Tell us about a major milestone so far in your life!
Educational Outreach (CLEO), a program that helps senior citizens learn how to use technology. This experience taught me the importance of patience and service in my daily life.
What is a fun fact about you?
One fun fact about me is that I have ridden in a helicopter before!
We hope Lucy has learned a little more about a possible future profession in our industry at Front Porch Marketing. We’ve certainly enjoyed working with her this summer and wish her well in her senior year at Ursuline!
This summer, we’re once again welcoming high school interns from Ursuline: joining us first this summer is Sarah Muck. Sarah is a rising senior at Ursuline Academy in Dallas. She is interested in pursuing a business degree in college, potentially with a marketing focus. We love that! We also love paying it forward every summer by sharing the wonderful world of marketing with the next generation. As we usually do, we asked Sarah a few questions so our readers could get to know her a little better.
What do you think the biggest misconception about marketing is today?
I think a common misconception about marketing is that a brand’s reputation relies mainly on a marketer’s direct efforts. Instead, positive brand perception is built through intentional relationships between the brand and its consumers.
What is one of the biggest lessons you have learned so far in your life?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that it’s never too early to network. Building meaningful connections can be as simple as initiating a conversation in the hallway or inviting someone to sit with you at lunch.
If you could describe Sarah Muck in three words what would they be?
I would say balanced, goal-oriented and creative.
What do you think a good brand strategy should look like?
Good brand strategy starts with understanding your consumers. Every brand has their own unique voice and the key to effectively communicating that voice is for the marketer to see their brand through their consumers’ eyes.
Tell us about a major milestone so far in your life!
When I was a freshman at Ursuline, I got my first job at a local juice bar. Working a real-world job was one of the first “adult” experiences I had, and I’ve loved working there for the past three years.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have the best two older sisters!
We hope Sarah learns a little more about a possible future profession in our industry at Front Porch Marketing. We’re certainly enjoying working with her this summer!
This summer, we are welcoming Alexa Sims, our newest intern rocker, to our growing team. As with all our new team members we love to find out more! So we asked her a few questions to get to know her better. She’s a student at Baylor University in Waco majoring in economics and communications. Alexa is passionate about creating engaging content and building authentic connections with audiences. Way to go, Alexa!
What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?
I think a big misconception in marketing is that it is simply getting your product out there. In reality, marketing is about forming personal connections with customers and letting them see how your product would benefit them more than other available options.
What advice would Alexa Sims give to her younger self?
Don’t be afraid to try new things. Even if you don’t enjoy it, you learn something new about yourself!
What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?
College has taught me the importance of the community you build and connections you form with those around you. Seemingly unimportant conversations can pave the way for lessons learned and opportunities given.
What does good brand strategy look like?
Good brand strategy looks like personality, showing people who you are as a brand and the things that set you apart. It allows people to connect with and trust you as people behind a brand.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?
On the lake with my 3 younger siblings!
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?
I would love to be able to talk with C.S. Lewis! I grew up reading Narnia and some of his other works and I feel like I could rally learn a lot from a conversation with him.
If you could describe Alexa Sims in three words what would they be?
I would describe myself as compassionate, dependable, and creative.
Tell us about a major milestone in your life?
One of my most recent milestones was going overseas for the first time! I went to Italy for a week through Baylor and I had so much fun learning more about the history and culture and more about myself.
From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?
What differentiates Front Porch Marketing is the relationships, both among those who work here and with our clients. There is an atmosphere of kindness, friendliness and helpfulness that cannot be found anywhere else.
This month, we are welcoming Peyton Gray, our newest intern rocker, to the team. So as we always do, we asked her a few questions to get to know her better! She’s a student at The University of Texas in Austin majoring in journalism. Peyton is passionate about thoughtful communication, creative collaboration and building meaningful connections through media and storytelling. We love that!
What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?
I think a common myth is that good products will sell themselves and success will happen immediately, which I believe overlooks human behavior and crowded markets. Marketing is even more important today than it ever has been because brands must work to intentionally capture their audience and build trust.
What advice would Peyton Gray give to her younger self?
If I could talk to my younger self, I would tell her that everything works out, even if it doesn’t happen exactly how you planned it!
What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?
College has taught me how important it is to build a strong community. Finding people you can relax, study, work and have fun with creates a space where you not only survive but begin to thrive.
What does good brand strategy look like?
A good brand strategy begins with a steady and strong brand identity. Using this as an anchor, a brand can establish a clear presence and cohesive image.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?
I would be in Paris, France! I visited the summer after my senior year of high school with my mom and was lucky enough to return for the Paris Olympics the following year — I am already planning my trip back after I graduate and CAN’T WAIT!
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?
I would have dinner with Princess Diana. Aside from the fact that I think she is absolutely the most elegant woman of all time, I really admire her strong character and love for those around her.
If you could describe Peyton Gray in three words what would they be?
I would describe myself as optimistic, determined and creative.
Tell us about a major milestone in your life?
One major milestone in my life was leading the recruitment of a pledge class of 95 members into my sorority at UT. I learned so much about leadership, relationship building, analytics and teamwork all while making 95 freshmen comfortable and confident in a new place!
From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?
What drew me into Front Porch Marketing, and what I believe sets the company apart, is how personable and intentional each member of the team is. Even in my interview I could tell how much each member was valued and supported, making me eager to join and get started. Front Porch is collaborative, intentional and genuinely people-oriented.
Stepping onto the “Front Porch” for the first time, I knew I was entering a space dedicated to storytelling and strategy. But as I look back on my internship, I realize that the most impactful lessons didn’t come from a textbook; they came from watching how brands live and breathe in the real world. As well as personal branding and connection.
Marketing isn’t just about the “what” it’s about the “who” and the “why.” Reflecting on my time here, three things stand out as the foundation of everything I’ve learned: the intentionality of branding, the depth of brand loyalty, and the necessity of knowing your audience.
Branding: More Than Just a Logo
During my time at Front Porch, I’ve seen firsthand that a brand is a promise. It’s the consistent thread that runs through every social media post, every email, and every client interaction. A brand isn’t a static image; it is a living reputation.
I’ve learned that successful branding requires:
Vulnerability: Being honest about a brand’s journey.
Consistency: Delivering the same message across every touchpoint.
Clarity: Knowing exactly what strengths and weaknesses you solve for your client.
When a brand is built with intention, it stops being a service and starts being a solution.
The Weight of Branding and Loyalty
We often talk about “getting” customers, but my internship taught me the importance of “keeping” them. Brand loyalty is the difference between a one-time transaction and a lifelong advocate. I’ve observed that the most successful clients we work with are those who don’t take their community for granted.
Loyalty is earned in the quiet moments: when a brand responds to a difficult situation with grace, or when they choose quality over a quick fix. During my time here at Front Porch, I’ve realized that people don’t just stay loyal to a product; they stay loyal to how a brand makes them feel. When you stay true to your brand promise, your audience rewards you with the most valuable currency in marketing: trust.
The Art of Connection to your Audience
If branding is the “voice,” then the audience is the “listener.” One of my biggest takeaways from Front Porch is that you cannot speak effectively if you haven’t first listened.
True audience connection involves:
Data with Soul: Looking beyond the numbers to see the people behind the clicks.
Empathy: Understanding the daily challenges and joys of the consumer.
Evolution: Recognizing that as your audience grows and changes, your strategy must as well.
Marketing is a two-way conversation. My internship here at Front Porch has shown me that the “lucky” brands are just the ones that have done the hard work of truly understanding the person on the other side of the screen. Personal branding needs the priority of connection and loyalty.
Final Reflectionson Branding and Connection
As I wrap up this chapter, I’m leaving with a new perspective on how businesses connect with the world. Authentic marketing doesn’t shout at the crowd; it speaks to the individual.
The “Front Porch” philosophy isn’t just about business; it’s about building a space where communication is genuine with branding and connection to your audience. These are the lessons that will guide me long after I’ve left the porch.
This week, we’re welcoming Sydney McKinney to our team as our newest rocker! She is our new guru of problem-solving and detail, and who doesn’t love that! Sydney says she is thrilled to join the Front Porch team and looks forward to helping make everyone’s life a little easier every day.
Sydney sat down with us on the Porch for a chat:
1. What is the biggest misconception about about the work you do?
The biggest misconception is that all I do is color code and look at a calendar.
3. What advice would you give to younger Sydney McKinney?
Don’t worry so much and trust in the Lord.
4. What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned in your career?
When asked to do something outside of your comfort zone in a job, always say yes. You never know what opportunities might come out of it.
5. What does good work team look like?
A team that communicates well and can rely on each other.
6. If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?
Sydney, Australia. I have always wanted to visit the location matching my name!
7. If you could go to dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be?
I would have dinner with my grandma. She passed away when I was too young to have taken advantage of conversations with her so I would love to be able to chat with her now as an adult!
8. If you could describe Sydney McKinney in three words, what would they be?
Motivated. Planner. Friend.
9. Tell us about a major milestone in your life.
Becoming a mom in the last year has been a huge milestone and I am loving every second of it. My daughter is a true joy and an “easy” baby, so I have been so blessed in that regard as I navigate the new season of motherhood.
10. What is a fun fact about you?
I have been to all 50 states!
What’s coming up for Sydney McKinney on The Porch?
Well, we sure hope that Sydney gets to see Sydney sooner than later! We’re super excited to have her expertise on our team, as our client roster continues to grow and we take on more and more challenging assignments. Welcome Sydney!
This year is a significant business anniversary for Front Porch Marketing! ‘Cause when you are fifteen … yep, had to … the lyrics from the icon and brilliant, bad a** storyteller and business woman Taylor Swift. We are honored and humbled to be celebrating our 15th year in business beginning this March. Which has all our marketing and branding wheels spinning.
What’s Significant About 2026?
It is not only our 15th anniversary. We have a new client who has engaged us to develop a brand audit, brand architecture and a 2026 marketing plan. Oh, and 2026 marks this client’s 30th year in business. Another significant business anniversary! Well, celebrations and events are always top of mind on the Porch. So, in my best football mom voice, Let’s go!
Looking for Ways to Rock Your Significant Business Birthday?
Whether it is this year or next, Front Porch Marketing can help. First of all, remember all things you do as a business should be in your brand voice and colors. Next, build on traditions and the vernacular you have established — for your brand and within your company culture — with your clients and advocates. Keep doing more of what makes you YOU!
Ready to celebrate your significant business anniversary? Look up the traditional and modern gifts and words associated with the significant year celebrations. For 30, for example, it is pearls, diamonds, lilies and other delightful 30th anniversary attributes.
Idea Starters For Your Significant Day Celebration
The big day to celebrate in 2026, for our current client, would be the 30th of every month starting in the month that they were founded for twelve months • Social media post related to the anniversary • Gift in line with 30 years to client’s advocates or to the founding client • Same to current and possibly prospective clients
Nonprofit tie-in • Donating $3,000 to a nonprofit near and dear to the brand or some special philanthropic tie-in • Asking for submissions directed to nonprofits, asking why their nonprofit should get $3,000
Team recognition • Special 30th anniversary branded gift • Celebration event for team • Volunteering together for 30 hours during the anniversary year
Short-term logo with 30th anniversary tagline or “30” incorporated into the design
30th anniversary website banner
Updated social media timeline covers and/or avatars
Handwritten notes with a special gift — or no gift — to those who helped you start the business or who are key to keeping you motivated to think differently. Recognize those who are always propping you up throughout the year
We Thank YOU For Helping Us Reach This Significant Year
It is not lost on us that we could not have done these past fifteen years without you. We could not have done this without team members present and past, and those that are yet to come. To those team members who we pull in when we have overflow or need special expertise: Thank you.
To those who refer us to other business leaders and contacts? We give our endless gratitude. To the champions of Front Porch Marketing who ask us to speak at events or are always at the willing to talk to clients looking for additional expertise and resources.
We are grateful for you all. Humbled and blessed always. Our team is honored to work with those we love for whom we love while taking care of our loves.
There would be no Front Porch Marketing without all y’all.
Before we knew it, 2025 came to an end. A year that was filled with opportunities, challenges, transitions and even moments of uncertainty. Looking back, it’s clear that these obstacles provided immense amounts of growth for our Rockers, both professionally and personally. The gratitude we feel for our clients and one another far outweigh any stress or uncertainty that we faced along the way.
Each of the following reflections tells a story of resilience, gratitude and progress, highlighting the meaningful growth and the trends that defined 2025, both within our work and in our personal lives.
Chief Rocker Julie Porter
Personally, this year was full of blessings. Andrew, my son, graduated with his MBA from Rollins College. We are so proud! Audrey, my daughter, continued to excel in school and proclaimed a love of acting and a hobby of being a soccer goalie.
Professionally, our team said goodbye to an important team member but gained a rock star. We had interns move on to amazing things and welcomed new ones. We were blessed with new clients and remained honored to continue on with our current clients. I gained new connections through joining groups including Success Champion Networking and Dream Team Dallas. I am motivated now more than ever to grow our business and brand.
We had time to give back our resources to important events including the Jesuit Women’s Auxiliary Christmas Bazaar and the Grant Halliburton Foundation’s Beacon of Hope Luncheon and Hope Party, among other things.
Industry wide, folks were dabbling in AI. Those that knew how to embrace it, we were grateful. And a few clients and prospects that were just getting on board, we were honored to educate them on the benefits.
Reflecting on 2025 and looking forward to the coming year are critical to me as a business leader. As a business, we will continue our focus — providing marketing plans and strategies and spot-on execution are paramount. We will continue to work with those we love, for those we love while taking care of our loves.
Cheers to the new year! I am honored to be working with this rockin’ team for our amazing clients.
Client Relationship Rocker Nancy Scott
As I look back on 2025, I’m grateful for a year that pushed me, taught me and reminded me why I love the work I do. I had the chance to partner with some incredible clients across industries and help them fine tune messaging and branding. Each project felt meaningful — I’m proud of the work created with my fellow Rockers and clients.
On the home front, my three daughters continue to amaze me. I watched them grow into themselves more, becoming more confident and more aware of who they are. We faced big and small challenges head-on and together. In starting over, we leaned on each other and discovered a kind of strength and courage I’ll never forget.
As we wrap up the year, I’m thankful for the people and moments that made 2025 what it was. Mostly, I’m grateful for my daughters and the community around us. Here’s to moving into 2026 with clarity, gratitude and hope!
Rock Collector Alison Moreno
2025 was an incredible year both personally and professionally. Watching my son graduate from high school and sending him off to college is sad and wonderful all at the same time. Witnessing my daughter become strong and independent both physically and emotionally, as she finished 3rd in Powerlifting Regionals before finishing out her sophomore year has made me so proud.
This year has also been a great opportunity for me as I have been able to grow and learn so much within the bookkeeping and accounting world. I have been able to work with more business owners in different industries that have bright dreams for their companies, and I have been able to help them work towards those goals. I hope that 2026 offers more of the same opportunities and progress as I push myself beyond my previous boundaries and expand my expertise.
Media Rocker Christine Finnegan
My year-end reflections for 2025 focus on reviewing my personal growth, career milestones — such as new skills and leadership achievements — health habits, and financial goals. I emphasized the importance of deep, intentional planning rather than merely “doing more” to achieve true fulfillment. My actions are always guided by self-awareness and resilience, ensuring they align with my personal values and maintain focus. As I look back on the year, I’ve realized that my happiness stems primarily from my two sons. Knowing that they are well and thriving brings me immense joy and fulfillment.
Swiss Army Rock Lea Ann Allen
2025 was a year full of Blursdays. Blursday, in case you are not familiar, is the day it is when you don’t know what day it is. All in all, 2025 has been utter chaos. But amid all the chaos I could always count on my colleagues at Front Porch Marketing. They are steady, kind and uplifting.
In all other ways, I am grateful this year is over. And I’m definitely hoping next year is less like a dumpster fire and more like a warm cup of cocoa with extra marshmallows. Keep your fingers crossed.
Website Rocker Vicky Gouge
It’s hard to believe we’re heading into 2026. My son just turned 12, and it feels like only yesterday I was holding him for the first time. While I love watching him grow into a thoughtful, capable young man, it’s bittersweet how quickly the years seem to pass. Time has a way of speeding up as we get older, and moments like this make that especially clear.
Looking back, 2025 was a steady and meaningful year. I was fortunate to travel with friends, spend a lot of quality time with family, and create new memories with Charlie along the way. Those experiences are what truly anchored the year for me.
From a business perspective, the year brought its share of challenges. The rapid emergence of AI tools introduced uncertainty, and a shifting economy made decision-making slower for many consumers. Even so, the year remained a positive one overall — full of learning, adaptation, and forward momentum.
Intern Sophie Leos
As I reflect back on the past year, I am so thankful for the opportunities that presented challenges and allowed me to grow professionally and as a person. As a senior in college at the University of Arkansas, I am approaching some of my final months as a student. Looking back even just a year ago, I feel like a whole new person.
This year was filled with various internships including my current one with Front Porch Marketing, which has given me much clarity as to my future career path. Front Porch has allowed me to learn from inspiring marketing professionals and gain numerous new skills, along with a vast amount of knowledge about the marketing world. I feel so much more prepared to enter the workforce and confident in the value that I can add to a team.
I am so grateful to everyone at Front Porch who has given me the space to learn and grow while also providing me with valuable guidance along the way. 2025 was so fruitful, and I cannot wait to see what’s in store for the next year!
Intern Riley Fry
Over the course of this year, there have been challenges to face, obstacles to overcome, goals achieved and unforgettable memories made with friends and family. To 2025, all I can say is thank you for shaping me into the person I am today, strengthening me through difficult moments and reminding me of what I’m capable of. Being a part of Front Porch Marketing has truly uplifted me and taught me more than I could have ever imagined, both personally and professionally. Every experience, lesson and connection has played a role in my growth. Because of 2025, I’m stepping into the new year feeling grateful, confident and excited for what’s ahead.
Reflections on 2025, From All of Us on the Porch
Thank you for being part of a year that challenged us, shaped us and helped us grow into the best versions of ourselves. As we step into the new year, we do so with gratitude for our people, our clients and the community that continues to support and inspire us.
Here’s to growth, clarity and showing up for one another.
Stay curious.
Stay kind.
Keep rocking.
With hearts full of love and excitement, we can’t wait to see what this new year will bring.
This month, we are welcoming Riley Fry, our newest intern rocker, to the team. We love asking our new employees a few questions to get to know them better! Riley is a student at The University of Arkansas studying communications and journalism. Riley is particularly excited about storytelling, media strategy, and empowering others through effective communication while she sits with us on the Porch.
What is the biggest misconception about marketing today?
One of the biggest misconceptions about marketing today is that it’s only about advertising or posting on social media. Marketing is about understanding people, using research and data to meet their needs, and building lasting relationships. It’s not just about selling a product — it’s about creating real connections and value for customers
What advice would Riley Fry give to her younger self?
No matter what, everything always works out the way it’s meant to. It’s easy to get caught up in the future or dwell on the past, but today is the only thing you can truly control. One day, you’ll look back and wish you had taken a breath and appreciated the moment you’re in right now.
What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far at school?
Nobody has figured it out. It’s easy to feel intimidated or compare yourself to others, but comparison only steals your joy. True confidence comes from within — and while it may sound cliché, sometimes you just have to fake it until you make it.
What does good brand strategy look like?
I think of a brand strategy as the heart of a company. It defines who you are, what you stand for, and how you connect with your audience. More than just a logo or design, a strong brand strategy combines your mission, values, and understanding of your customers to create a clear and consistent identity. It highlights what makes you unique and tells your story in a way that builds trust and lasting loyalty.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?
I’d love to be back in Maui, Hawaii. The summer I spent there with my family was unforgettable — it’s the most gorgeous and peaceful place on earth. The locals are so kind and genuine, and my favorite thing to do there is just sit on the beach and enjoy the calm.
If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?
I’d choose Dakota Johnson. I admire her as an actress and love her sense of style. She has an incredible taste in fashion, home decor, and architecture. She’s also worked with so many talented people, and grew up in a famous family, I’m sure she has some amazing stories to share.
If you could describe Riley Fry in three words what would they be?
I’d describe myself as detailed, creative, and optimistic.
Tell us about a major milestone in your life?
A major milestone for me was coming to school at the University of Arkansas. Growing up in Houston, Texas, I had never experienced living in such a beautiful state or meeting so many new people. Moving here pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally.
From your perspective, how does Front Porch Marketing differentiate itself from other marketing companies?
Front Porch creates a warm, close-knit environment that extends to both the clients and team. Their focus goes beyond delivering exceptional work — they’re dedicated to building lasting relationships with clients who quickly start to feel like family.
