Company address: 231 E. Buffalo St. Studio 301, Milwaukee
Company Web site: www.cdcreative.com
Industry: Design-advertising, print, interactive, video and interiors
Number of employees: 8
Education: BFA, Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design
Family: “My husband, Ignacio Catral, is a partner in the business and a MIAD graduate, as well. We have two children, 8-year old Sam and 6-year old Ariana.”
What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?
“Developed and integrated a billing and time tracking system customized to suit our specialized business needs.”
What’s new at your company?
“We have enjoyed a great deal of new client growth in the areas of Web, video and rich media development and are now having the chance to extend those skills and services to more of our long-standing clients.”
Do you plan to hire any additional staff or make any significant capital investments in your company in the next year?:
“We work from our core of creative talent and outsource only as needed. We will continue to respond to work volume as needed.”
What will be your company’s main challenges in the next year?
“Managing our continued growth while maintaining our quality standards.”
What’s the hottest trend in your industry?
“I would say rich media (dynamic, interactive media that uses extensive Flash and/or video for online advertising and web development) and video in general in communications.”
Do you have a business mantra?
“Smart and effective communication starts with research.”
From a business standpoint, who do you look up to?
“Apple and its relentless pursuit of great design.”
What was the best advice you ever received?
“Relationships drive business.”
What’s the funniest thing that ever happened to you in your career?
“Most recently, what comes to mind is my attempt to describe what I do for a living to a class of 5-year-olds at my daughter’s career day. It was an entertaining and humbling experience. Now I have an even deeper respect for our educators.”
What do you like to do in your free time?
“I like to spend time with my family. We have a cabin up north, where we kayak, swim, catch frogs and relax. I love to read, draw and work on my Spanish studies.”
