Don't Label Us was born while two friends sipped a local cider they'd chosen mostly because the label was cute...
This led us to discuss how products can act as books judged by their cover, and how beautiful branding can make all the difference in enticing customers to give something new a try. We thought, "we are all visual people...why not make that fact work for our small businesses?" What began with label design grew to branding, marketing, and comprehensive support for small businesses we love. We started by handing out business cards to folks we met at local farmer's markets, making new friends and adapting our offerings to the needs of our clients as they grew. We began work in Maryland and Northern Virginia, and now two years later the business has moved to Richmond with Ellyse, with Hailey consulting from Harper's Ferry.
Our Talent
Ellyse Elmer
they/she
Business Operations, Branding, & Design Lead | Co-Founder
Ellyse brings a background in business development, UX/UI, digital marketing, and killer graphic design to Don't Label Us. In addition to managing the core of the Don't Label Us brand, Ellyse will be the one working with you one-on-one to bring your business vision to life. They have worked for big government contractors, national parks, small companies, and independent creators alike, guiding each through the steps of establishing a successful brand presence.
Ellyse is also a local artist in the RVA area, making and selling oddities at popup markets around the city. They understand firsthand what it's like to try and set yourself a part amongst fellow small businesses, and will bring that tenacity to your business as well.
Favorite part of the job: creating stellar graphics and delicious color schemes that bring the vibe of your business to life. Also, finessing the UX design of a website until it flows well and stands out visually.
Jack Bailey
he/they
Editor & Photographer, Digital Asset Quality Manager
Jack brings a rich artistic background to Don't Label Us, along with an educational background in cinematography and visual arts. Jack has honed his experience as a freelance photographer, videographer, sharp-eyed editor, and visual artist, serving clients in music, real estate, and events management. From technical to artistic, Jack understands what makes the difference between a good edit and a great one. He is passionate about turning photos, videos, and other digital media into opportunities to tell a story. He has been the recipient of multiple Best Editor awards for film productions through VCU's cinema program, including Too Close to the Sun and Farewell to Pageantry.
Jack is also accomplished in sound design and music production. He has performed video and sound editing for musicians to fine-tune music video footage, and has created and released his own original music on streaming platforms.
Favorite part of the job: finding new and exciting ways of "misusing" tools and softwares to create new artistic potential. Fine-tuning a photo and creating multiple versions that enhance different parts of its composition...in short, making a simple photo into a piece of art that represents you. Also, he's a master at planning and executing a good photo shoot (for people and/or products)!
Hailey Kilgo
she/her
Co-Founder, Business Consultant
Hailey is now working full time for Save The Children as Lead Associate for GenNext and Global Awards! She is the person to have in your corner, no matter what. Her passion, business savvy, and creative spirit were instrumental in getting Don't Label Us off to a running start, and her insight continues to help us shine! She supports Don't Label Us as a consultant on business strategy alongside her other professional endeavors.
Andrew Kelly
he/him
Web Development Consultant
Andrew serves as Senior Product Marketing Manager for Pluralsight, and has been a steadfast support to Don't Label Us. His background in web development and marketing were instrumental in making our initial web launch happen, and his eye for good UX/UI design has made his insight invaluable to our team.