RocketFuel is a web design firm that provides custom website design and internet marketing to business, nonprofits, and agencies nationwide.
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CEO & President - Rocketfuelreuben + lori brunsonReuben was born and raised in Memphis, while Lori is a transplant from Atlanta (though she’s been here longer so we give her a pass). They couldn’t escape the gravitational pull of Memphis even if they wanted to. Starting in advertising, Reuben became the “web guy” in the office once the internet popped up. Now, he’s living his entrepreneurial dream running his own business with his partner in crime. Why do you work downtown?“It’s hard to see ourselves anywhere else really. We’ve had offices in different areas of Memphis for short time periods, but always felt drawn to Downtown. We love the vibe, and like being able to walk right onto Main Street into a corner where so many innovative companies are located. Lunch options are endless and everything is walkable. The scene is perfect for us and our employees.” What about your downtown location is appealing?“We feel like we are in the creative core of Memphis honestly. There’s Archer Malmo and Red Deluxe on our block, Sullivan Branding and Oden down the street, plus Lokion and Start Co. in our building alone. It’s a sign of the times of technology growing in the city. I like to call it the Silicon Delta.” Where do you find inspiration in Downtown?“Seeing the mixture of people and characters on a daily basis keeps everything fresh for us. We always run into the most interesting people. And you have to have your game on work-wise. The amount of creative people that are down here is motivating. There are a lot of agencies that are doing phenomenal work, and it’s challenging and inspiring to be surrounded by that.” What to clients think of your office space and Downtown environment?“Our customers are always intrigued by our office space because it’s a custom, open floor plan. They come from a more corporate background where everyone’s in offices and cubicles, and they want to know how our space works. They enjoy the fun environment that we have. There’s artwork and toys everywhere, we play board games and have Nerf gun wars, people bring in pets to work and there’s this amazing view of the city and river. You know you’re Downtown, but up here you feel like you’re Downtown. When we plan to meet with customers, they always come to us. We rarely go out East because people want to be down here.” What's something people might not know about Downtown Memphis?“They probably wouldn’t know the history of all our buildings, but that’s why we have the Blue Suede Brigade, carriage rides and guys like Jimmy Ogle who give tours. We also have the Peddlers which is so awesome to have a drink and ride a bike while hearing about Downtown. It’s a blast! There’s plenty of parking, and South Main always has something new pop up. It’s not a complicated city. It’s simple, and it’s wonderful.” Who is your professional hero?Lori: “I’ve admired Kimberly Bryant over the last few years. I’m so impressed with what she’s doing with Black Girls Code and bringing minorities into this career field. She’s advancing the idea that women can be a part of the technology world.” |
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