creative agency Archives

Branding in the Fifth Dimension: A Metaphysical Guide to Multi-Layered Meaning

At Otherwise, we’ve always been drawn to the spaces between disciplines — where metaphor becomes method, and strategy is stretched through unfamiliar dimensions. So today, we ask: What if a brand isn’t a flat identity, but a dimensional construct? It’s easy to think of a brand as a surface: a logo, a voice, a palette, […]

Jul 6 2025 by Nancy Lerner in Editorials

Substack and the Rise of the Creative Middle Class: A New Model for Community Engagement

In the wreckage of the ad-driven internet, a quiet revolution is underway. It’s not loud. It doesn’t chase clicks. It doesn’t serve brands. Instead, it serves people—through the radical idea that writers and creators should be paid directly by those who value their work. Once a niche newsletter platform, Substack has become something much more […]

Jun 11 2025 by Nancy Lerner in Editorials

Branding in the Startup World: A Tale of Speed vs Substance

In the unforgiving terrain of the startup world, where unicorns are revered and the mantra of “build fast, sell faster” reigns supreme, branding takes on a vastly different hue. It is not the slow, patient art of building deep relationships, but a swift, agile dance toward value. Yet, even here, in this frantic rush, there […]

Jul 4 2024 by Nancy Lerner in Brandshrink

Creating Conditions to Embrace Change: Rebranding Kiser Group

Amidst the tumult of rising interest rates, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions, the mid-market multifamily market has weathered the storm, offering property owners and investors stable occupancy rates, rent growth, and impressive returns. This resilience is mirrored in the journey of Kiser Group, a leader in the multifamily mid-market space, particularly within Chicago and […]

Apr 15 2024 by Nancy Lerner in Editorials

“Beets are the boss” — Learning from Danie’s Natural Juice Blends

Like so many small businesses, the story behind Danie’s Natural Juice Blends is deeply personal — and one that we’re honored to help tell. What began as one woman’s wellness journey morphed into a purpose-driven cold-pressed juice business. Nearly two years after our work began together, we connected with founder Danielle Marshall to reflect and […]

Nov 2 2022 by The Otherwise Team in Editorials