Kipper Quillen’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2018 with the founding of Quillen Marketing. With a strong background in marketing, Kipper identified a gap in the industry—there was a need for a company that could provide comprehensive digital services, from website design to SEO, while maintaining a personal touch. “I wanted to ensure that every client received a tailored experience, avoiding the impersonal feel of big corporate firms,” Kipper explains. This vision became the foundation of Quillen Marketing, where clients are seen as partners, not just numbers.
Overcoming Challenges: Building Trust in a Competitive Market
Starting a business is never easy, and for Kipper, one of the biggest challenges was building trust and establishing a reputation in a crowded market. To grow the client base, Kipper relied heavily on cold-calling, proving that a smaller company could match—or even surpass—the results of larger firms. This process taught Kipper that transparency, reliability, and a genuine investment in clients’ success were the keys to setting Quillen Marketing apart. Focusing on building long-term relationships became the company’s winning strategy.
Staying Motivated Through Tough Times
In the early stages, unpredictable cash flow made running the business particularly tough. But Kipper found motivation in Nicole Marie, who joined Quillen Marketing shortly after its launch. Her unwavering belief in the company’s potential provided a sense of urgency and accountability. “She was a constant push in the right direction, reminding me what Quillen Marketing could become,” Kipper recalls. A turning point came during a tough decision-making period when Kipper considered cutting down on staff. Instead, he chose to double down on marketing efforts, securing several new clients within a few months and setting the stage for growth.
Advice for New Entrepreneurs: Focus on Value and Sustainability
Kipper’s advice to new entrepreneurs is to prioritize delivering value over scaling too quickly. “Plan ahead, but don’t rush to hire just because you’ve landed a big client,” he advises. “Work those extra hours to ensure your operations are sustainable before taking on additional expenses.” He also emphasizes the importance of consistently seeking new clients, even when business seems to be at capacity. Reflecting on a time when Quillen Marketing paused client acquisition for three months, he notes that while it helped maintain quality, it also slowed growth. Lastly, he encourages new entrepreneurs to learn how to manage difficult clients and know when to walk away—skills that can save both time and energy in the long run.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
One of Kipper’s proudest moments came when Quillen Marketing hit its 2024 growth milestone just three months into the year. This achievement validated the hard work and commitment to quality that Kipper and his team had put in. It also opened the door to new opportunities, such as setting up scholarships for local students—a goal that had been a long-term aspiration for Kipper and his team. “It was a powerful reminder that perseverance and staying true to our values really do pay off,” Kipper says.
Through dedication to quality and a focus on building genuine relationships, Kipper Quillen has made Quillen Marketing a company that stands out in the digital marketing landscape. As he looks to the future, Kipper remains committed to helping clients succeed and making a positive impact in the community.
To learn more, visit Quillen Marketing.