Gretchen Fontova

How does Cincinnati’s largest homeless shelter get a fresh start? For the (former) Drop Inn Center, it meant a new name, branding and assets that told their story as they prepared to open two new shelters.

I spoke with people who experienced homelessness, employees, donors and city officials to inform the new “Shelterhouse” name, branding, website, videos and collateral to better represent the organization and the services it provides.

ExxonMobil launched their new rewards app, which let users pay, earn and get rewarded all in one place.

I wrote and concepted announcement materials for the website and emails that harnessed the celebratory nature of the launch, while also promoting the app’s features.

When ExxonMobil launched its best fuel ever — as well as a new, premium rewards program level — they needed to engage current and potential buyers at the pump, at home and online. I helped to create:

-A welcome kit that explained the fuel and program while packaging the new rewards card, a branded mug and an oil change gift card

-On-site advertising that touted benefits of the fuel and rewards program

-Display ads that led viewers to the website, where viewers could engage with more details

Pet owners have a lot on their minds. With helpful tips, ideas and savings, they can get back to doing what they love — spending time with their four-legged friends.

I led creative direction and copy for PetBasics, Elanco Animal Health’s pet owner platform. Through monthly emails and site content, we connected dog and cat owners with the information they need while keeping our client’s brands top of mind.

Here’s a win for the Bengals — before they even hit the field.

The Cincinnati Society of Professional Journalists gave the Cincinnati Bengals preseason guide that I wrote and edited its “Best Special Section” Award.

It all started in the Bengals’ training facilities, where I interviewed players, coaches and staff as they prepared for the upcoming season. From there, I spoke to some of the team’s most dedicated fans to see how their energy and spirit prevailed.

Can I get a Who Dey?!

The Clifton Cultural Arts Center (CCAC) is a nonprofit arts organization in Cincinnati. I created digital and print collateral, and also interviewed stakeholders to create videos, to help them successfully raise funds during their end-of-year campaign.

Additionally, I helped to created materials and videos to promote events such as Sunset Salons and Wednesdays on the Green.

When ExxonMobil Aviation launched its LinkedIn page, I created content and copy to attract and engage other industry professionals.

In order to support the page’s launch and encourage newsletter signups, I pitched a photo booth at our client’s largest trade show, MRO Americas. My social posts and emails drove attendees to the booth, where they received a professional headshot, signed up for the newsletter and received information about the LinkedIn page.

New doors. New possibilities.

Therma-Tru designs and manufactures fiberglass and steel entry doors. While their standard door line was established in the industry, they needed to position a new line inspired by Mid-century modern art and design.

I proposed the name “Pulse” for the new brand, the tagline “Modern design. Upbeat living.” and the names “Ari,” “Echo” and “Línea” for the new door styles. After the client enthusiastically approved these options, I helped them create product positioning and brochures to roll out the new line.

At a time when the Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) couldn’t compete with nearby airports’ prices, it needed to stand out in another way.

I worked on a series of billboards that touted CVG’s convenience for business travel, which meant travelers spent more time at home and less time getting to and from the airport.

Additionally, I created print ads that touted CVG’s burgeoning cargo business to companies in the area.