Today we’d like to introduce you to Britt Corrigan.
Hi Britt, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, you could tell our readers some of your backstory.
How Left Bank Creative Got Started: A Journey of Art, Music, and Serendipity
Our journey began in the vibrant summer of 2016 in the heart of Cleveland’s West Bank Flats. Nestled in the Left Bank building, a hidden gem of artistic expression, I found myself amid a bohemian utopia. A chance encounter with Dani’s touring band led to an impromptu performance in our loft, sparking a creative fire that would change our lives. The moment Dani and her band set foot in the Left Bank, it was as if the universe aligned. Soon after, they moved in, and suddenly, the building buzzed with even more creative energy. We immersed ourselves in a community of like-minded artists, musicians, and dreamers. The Left Bank wasn’t just a place; it was an era—a vibrant chapter of self-exploration and growth, where every wall whispered stories of innovation, and every corner was a canvas for creativity.
Dani, a lifelong musician, was also making her mark in the promotional product distribution industry. When she transitioned to a new role, she saw potential in me and became my mentor. Over the years, our shared love for creativity and professional growth brought us closer, and we became not just friends but also colleagues.
In 2023, a new chapter began in our lives. Our boss’s retirement and the sale of her client list sparked a desire for change. Fueled by our shared vision, Dani and I founded Left Bank Creative. Our mission was clear from the start: to go beyond traditional promotional marketing and, instead, help brands discover and amplify their unique identities. Naming the company was intuitive and came to us almost instantly. We wanted the spirit of the Left Bank to guide us, keeping us connected to the innovation and creativity we experienced in that community and paying homage to the place where it all began. We knew where we were coming from and what we wanted to achieve with Left Bank Creative almost without discussing it.
We last looked back a while ago. At Left Bank Creative, we channel the passion and innovation that ignited our journey. Our story is a testament to the power of community, the beauty of luck, and the endless possibilities that unfold when creativity leads the way. Stay inspired, stay creative.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
So far, so good. Dani and I are a powerhouse and work incredibly well together, balancing each other’s strengths and pushing the boundaries of creativity. With our local notoriety and traveler roots, we’ve managed to attract a diverse range of clients and build a brand that sustains us and resonates deeply with our network as they develop their brands and businesses. Yet, like any worthwhile journey, it hasn’t been without its challenges. In the early days, transitioning from our previous jobs to running our own company was a whirlwind. We faced the typical struggles of a startup—navigating financial uncertainties, fine-tuning our services, and establishing a foothold in a competitive market. But we were determined to overcome these hurdles, and our resilience shone through in late nights, tight deadlines, and moments of doubt.
Our unwavering commitment to our vision sets us apart. We didn’t just want to slap logos on products. We aimed to be an extension of our client’s marketing team and foster a sense of connection through our work. This mission, which includes you, our valued clients, and partners, has kept us focused and motivated, even when the going got tough. Building Left Bank Creative has been an incredible growth journey, not just for our business but also for us. Every obstacle has been a stepping stone, pushing us to innovate and stay true to our creative ethos. We’re not just building a company we are cultivating a community and elevating brands. How could we lose?
As you know, we’re big fans of Left Bank Creative. What can you tell our readers, who might need to be more familiar with the brand?
At Left Bank Creative, we specialize in helping people promote their businesses, brands, and events with standout custom products. Finalists in Cleveland Scene Magazine’s Best of CLE 2023 & 2024, our expertise spans a wide range of services, including:
- Custom t-shirts & apparel (Screen print, embroidery, sublimation, etc.)
- Promotional products (Giveaway/tradeshow, retail quality, etc.)
- Custom client and corporate gifting
- Onboarding & employee kits
- Custom packaging & displays
We ship nationwide and offer all prospective clients free product presentations and consultations. We take pride in our personalized approach, dedication to elevating brand identities, and commitment to fostering meaningful connections. Our blend of creativity, community focus, and unwavering commitment to quality sets us apart.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some changes you expect to see over the next five to ten years?
At Left Bank Creative, we’re not just players in the game; we’re the rebels rewriting the rules. Our mission? To shake up the scene, challenge the status quo, and redefine what it means to stand out. In the next 5-10 years, we’re not just aiming to make waves; we’re gunning to be the biggest and boldest name in our industry. We’re not afraid to push boundaries, break molds, and create a whole new standard of brand merch. We hope to bring more give-back-centric and sustainable options to our clients. Let’s defy expectations, shatter stereotypes, and build a future where creativity knows no limits. We’re not just here to sell products; we’re here to inspire change.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leftbankcreative.co/
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/leftbankcreative
Image Credits
Photographer: Saad Talha, Assistant: Shelly Duncan, Black Valve Studio