Your Brand Identity Specialists
Meet the Team
Bill Kleist
Partner, Senior Designer
In 1993, Bill founded Identity Creative, specializing in branding for business.
“Logo design doesn’t feel like work! The best part is helping clients clearly identify what makes their business unique and developing a logo and message that communicates it.
Small businesses get sloppy with their brand. They don’t mean to, it just happens and it bruises their image. We work hard to keep their design aligned with their brand’s look and feel, building their credibility in the marketplace. It’s a remarkable advantage that puts them on a level playing field with bigger players.”
Bill graduated from MSU with B.A. degrees in Graphic Design and Advertising, working in the agency space before launching Identity Creative.
In his spare time, Bill is a practical joker, a true family man, and is always up for a game of Risk.
- Art Direction 97%
- Perfectionism 95%
- Risk Game Conquest 100%
Linda Kleist
Partner, Brand Strategy
Linda and Bill started Identity Creative in 1993. Her B.A. from GVSU in Grand Rapids, Mich., prepared her for a career in the branding and marketing process for clients.
Her favorite part of the work is meeting entrepreneurs who strive against all odds until they succeed. ”I meet such dedicated and strong people with inspiring stories. It’s a privilege to help them promote their business and achieve new levels of success.” It’s accomplished through brand strategy, creative design, and message, so companies can connect with their ideal customers and grow.
Linda also likes making homemade pizza and fresh focaccia bread. Together, Bill and Linda support nonprofit works and local community programs. They have four treasured children, all married, and eight precious grandchildren. Family and friends are a never-ending supply of fun, inspiration, and love.
- Brand Development 95%
- Public Speaking 80%
- Best-Popcorn-Ever-Maker 100%
Abby Thompson
Automated Marketing Specialist
In the summer of 2019, Abby joined the Identity Creative team. Her high energy, brilliance, and great sense of humor have made her an immense asset.
Abby is the project manager for our client’s SharpSpring and Constant Contact email marketing, CRM, and social media management. Many of the projects and operations she manages at IC directly link to her current studies at Walsh College, where she’ll receive her B.A. in Marketing this year.
Her creativity and marketing savvy also finds expression in her photography business, Abbys Focus, shooting everything from families & weddings to headshots and commercial shoots.
In her free time, Abby can be found at the driving range perfecting her swing, traveling up north, cheering for the New England Patriots, or spending time with family and friends.
- Financials & Organization 92%
- Social Butterfly 96%
- NFL Football Enthusiast 100%
Erin Wanken
Social Media Manager
Erin manages social media for Identity Creative. She is continually researching best practices and navigating constant change in the online world.
After graduating from Oakland University with a BS in Anthropology and History, she became the Marketing Director and Event Planning Coordinator for Marias Medical Center in Shelby, Montana. Erin successfully built a connection between the hospital, local businesses, and residents of the community through advertising, fundraisers, events, and corporate culture initiatives.
Erin and her husband have two young daughters and a German Shepherd named Penny. In her spare time, she can be found baking, entertaining friends, enjoying the outdoors, and reading anything-Jane-Austen.
“Working with the Identity Creative innovative team keeps me on my creative toes!”
- Creative Content Genius 95%
- People Connector 90%
- Jane Austen Fan 100%
Giulia Lampis
Graphic Designer
- Creativity 97%
- Reliability 99%
- Lasagna-making skills 100%
Sheryl Vallus
Graphic Designer
Sheryl joined the Identity Creative team in the fall of 2021, bringing depth of experience in creative marketing and project management from her work at Hour Custom Publishing.
Graduating from Oakland University with a BS in Mathematics and Communications contributed to her perspective of graphic design as serving a functional role for business.
Sheryl strives for clarity and simplicity in communication and design. Saying as much as possible concisely and articulately is vital in both content and form.
All things active and outside are her favorite pastimes, from at-home workouts to organized sports and everything in between. Sheryl and her husband, Trevor, have three sons and enjoy competitive sports, both cheering on the boys and challenging one another in family activities. From skiing and soccer, to hiking and card games, family time is lively, often competitive, and always fun.
- Logic & Flow 93%
- Team Player 97%
- Homeschool Soccer Mom 100%
Our Creative Team
Designers and Business Brains
We’re thrilled to have a team of talent that inspires creative energy and vision. Consistent encouragement to express ideas and open feedback is happening here.
Having a fresh perspective in design, strategy, and tech-trends is crucial to remaining relevant and help our clients build brands that connect with their ideal customers.
If there’s a better way, we’re committed to learn it and do it!
