Member Spotlight: Amanda Stephens, Mungo Creative, LLC
Can you tell us a little about the history of your business?
Mungo Creative was started in 2005 as an integrated marketing firm in Houston. At the time there were not many boutique agencies providing a holistic marketing approach - offering both print advertising and digital media services under the same roof. For the past 20 years we have continued this approach through our branding, design, web and digital media solutions provided to a diverse set of clients and industries. We moved offices to Katy in 2010 but continue to service clients throughout the greater Houston area and beyond.
What inspired you to start this business and how has your vision evolved over time?
After working in print advertising and interactive media for 7 years, I saw a need and opportunity for integrated marketing services. I started Mungo Creative with the intention of better serving clients with a full-scale, integrated marketing solution for brand consistency that could be provided by one knowledgeable team. Over time as technology evolved and this way of working became the industry norm, the vision has evolved to be more process-oriented and relationship focused. We still provide the same level of integrated services but focus less on one-off projects and more on being the "boots-on-the-ground" support to fill gaps with organizations who do not have in-house marketing staff.
What sets your business apart from others in your industry?
While we are always looking for new clients, many of our current clients have been with Mungo for over 10 years. This speaks to the adaptability of our team. We consciously and collaboratively work with our clients, and the services pivot to meet our client's needs as they grow and change.
In what ways do you engage with the local community?
We have done pro-bono work with organizations like Keep Texas Beautiful and Holy Spirit Episcopal School. Some of our community clients include Katy ISD Education Foundation, Katy ISD Partners in Education, and Keep Katy Beautiful.
What do you believe has been the key to your business's success so far?
Building relationships and taking the time to really understand each one of our client's industries as well as their business goals.
How do you stay ahead in a competitive market?
We have stayed ahead in a competitive market by remaining flexible with our offerings and being adaptable. We had already adopted a work-from-home business model before COVID hit, which helped immensely during that difficult time. We embrace and invest in new technology such as CRM tools, AI, and social media advancements to keep our offerings relevant.
What does excellent customer service mean to you?
Excellent customer service means listening first, interpreting second, and then collaborating with guidance. We know we have done a good job when our clients recommend us to others.
What’s the most rewarding part of running your business?
The most rewarding part of this business are the amazing people I have met along the way who have become more than clients. They have become friends and colleagues. This includes the Mungo team, some of which have worked for Mungo for 18 years!
Connect: https://www.mungoideas.com/