The Match Made in Marketing: Insights from Matchstick Social

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What happens when two marketing professionals with complementary strengths join forces? In this candid conversation with Amber and Rachel of Matchstick Social, we explore the remarkable journey of a Charleston-based agency that's grown from a King Street startup to a thriving full-service marketing firm over the past 12 years.

The duo shares how their partnership began with a late-night phone call from a steakhouse bathroom and a spontaneous decision that would change both their lives. Despite facing the challenge of geographic separation when Amber moved to Oklahoma for five years, their business persevered through what they describe as "two steps forward, one step back" until reuniting in Charleston reignited their momentum.

What truly stands out is their refreshing perspective on Charleston's marketing community. Rather than viewing other agencies as competition, they celebrate collaboration, resource-sharing, and mutual support. "If you raise your rate, I can raise my rate," they explain, highlighting how elevating industry standards benefits everyone. This philosophy extends to their approach with clients—evolving from selling services to finding the right fit, creating partnerships rather than transactions.

The conversation takes fascinating turns through discussions of AI in marketing (a tool, not a replacement for creativity), balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship (five kids between them!), and why Charleston has become a hub for marketing innovation. They even weigh in on the great debate about remote work versus office culture, sharing insights from their TEDx talk on the unintended consequences of working from home.

Whether you're a marketing professional, business owner, or simply curious about Charleston's thriving creative community, this episode offers valuable insights into building successful partnerships, adapting to industry changes, and creating a business that truly re

MPCC Business and Community Expo 9/18/25

Please join us for our 15th annual Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce Business and Community Expo, driven by Crews Subaru at the Omar Shrine Convention Center. 

New this year--a job fair, our Building Business Podcast will be live onsite, and more.

Don't miss out on the Super Bowl of Networking @ Omar Shrine 11:00 am - 5:00

Support the show

Presenting Sponsor: Charleston Media Solutions

Title Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing Association

Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton,

Produced and edited: RMBO Advertising

Photographer | Co-host: Kelli Morse

Art Director: Taylor Ion

CAMA President: Margaret Stypa
Score by: The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenu
Studio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew Chase

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