CJ CARTER

Growing up near Duluth, Minnesota, and the shores of Lake Superior, I was surrounded by visual inspiration at every turn. From an early age, I could be found behind a camera or directing photoshoots, which, often, included my unsuspecting dog and various items of interest in the house and outside. My passion for photography and visual storytelling continued into high school, where I was a writer and photographer for the yearbook, along with helping write and produce a weekly school variety/comedy show for our local cable station. 

 

My artistic spirit led me to a degree in graphic design and photography, where I expanded my repertoire into different forms of creative mediums. From a visual stylist for major department stores to styling and directing fashion photography for specialty retail chains, I then branched out to the agency life where I spent years honing my in-depth branding foundation. For much of my career, working on both the client and the agency sides of the fence, I have immersed myself in developing innovative creative, branding, and marketing strategies for small, independent businesses and start-ups to global corporations. 

 

My life-long passion for branding, storytelling, and creating incredible imagery eventually drove me to take a leap of faith and venture out on my own. Fully embracing my endless energy, artistic talent, and quirky wit, Caffeinated Squirrel Creative Productions, LLC was born. I now work with and lead internal and external creative, marketing, and production teams to develop content that sparks emotional connections between brands and their desired target audiences. 

 

It's collaborating with awesome clients and other talented partners that fuel my endless energy and motivates me to push the boundaries. Those who choose to work with me soon realize that they aren't just getting a 'contract' or 'freelance' Brand Strategist, Creative Director, Copywriter, Art Buyer, or Producer, instead they're getting someone who truly cares - about them, their brand, and their business. They get a dedicated "Brand and Creative Partner" who rolls up their sleeves, digs in, and overcomes obstacles to produce unique, engaging original content that helps them achieve their brand's goals.

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I hope you will take a few moments to look through my work on this site. Please contact me if you have any questions or would like to discuss a potential project you have waiting in the wings. I would genuinely welcome any opportunity to work together - and who knows?

Perhaps you may even learn how to 'embrace' your own "Inner Squirrel" along the way!

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Peace, health, and happiness.

CJ 

 

Executive Director of Brand Strategy | Creative Director | Producer | Storyteller | Visionary