Founder Spotlight: David & Astrid Kirkland, KNOW Creative

What exactly is KNOW Creative?

KNOW Creative is a branding and creative consultancy that specializes in combining expertise across branding, strategy, production, and motion graphics to deliver innovative and cohesive brand experiences. The agency is driven by a passion for creative excellence, working collaboratively with clients to craft bold, impactful solutions that inspire action and leave lasting impressions.

What inspired you to found KNOW Creative?

We started KNOW Creative because we wanted to push beyond the limits of in-house agency ability. By collaborating with the best minds, we could help clients achieve their ambitions while bringing our own creative vision to life.

How have you grown the business since launching?

Our growth has come from consistently delivering exceptional work that truly speaks for itself. Over the past 9 years, the opportunities have only gotten bigger—a sure sign of progress in my book. With these larger projects, we’ve been selective in expanding our team, bringing in talent that complements our core, while staying flexible and efficient to meet clients’ ever-evolving needs.

What is your mission with the business?

The mission with KNOW Creative is to challenge clients to think differently and push the boundaries of what’s possible. We’re not just here to deliver a service; we’re here to inspire and elevate brands with bold creativity and strategic vision. The goal is to craft unique solutions that stand out in a crowded marketplace, transforming brands and maximizing their full potential. It’s about making a lasting impact through creativity that drives results.

How do you help entrepreneurs and business leaders?

We help entrepreneurs and business leaders by taking the complexity out of creative strategy and turning it into something actionable and powerful. It’s about more than just design—it’s about understanding their vision, pushing them to think differently, and then delivering creative solutions that actually move the needle. We guide them through the process, bringing clarity and structure while elevating their brand to new levels of impact. Ultimately, we give them the tools and creative support they need to grow their business with confidence.

What is your most in-demand service right now?

Right now, Creative Strategy is at the forefront of what we do. Clients are seeking clarity amidst the noise, and our role is to simplify complexities to address their challenges effectively. By aligning creative direction with business objectives, we craft tailored strategies that not only resonate but also drive meaningful results.

Why is having a unique and compelling brand identity an integral part of a marketing strategy?

A unique and compelling brand identity is the heartbeat of any marketing strategy. It sets the tone for how a business connects with its audience, differentiating it in a crowded marketplace. A strong identity fosters trust and recognition, allowing brands to tell their story authentically. When a brand resonates deeply with its audience, it drives loyalty and creates a lasting impact, ultimately fueling growth and success.

What makes a great brand identity?

A great brand identity stands out because it’s not just about looking good; it’s about being memorable and distinct in a crowded marketplace. It tells a story that’s authentic and relatable, forging an emotional connection with audiences. At KNOW Creative, we believe in the power of differentiation – your brand should reflect what makes you unique. Consistency is vital, but so is adaptability. A great identity evolves with your business, staying relevant and resonant as your audience and market change. Ultimately, it’s about crafting a brand experience that captures hearts and minds, inviting deeper engagement.

What has been your biggest success since launching?

Success, for us, is all about the relationships we build. The greatest achievement comes when clients choose to work with us again, commissioning projects without going through a tender process. When our work speaks for itself and fosters that level of trust, it’s truly a rewarding moment in our journey. The default answer would be to launch a brand at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

What metrics do you use to analyze the success of the strategies you have implemented?

While we may not rely on traditional metrics or complex analytics, we place immense value on the feedback we receive from our clients. Their satisfaction and trust are the true indicators of our success. Additionally, industry recognition through awards serves as a testament to the impact of our strategies, validating our commitment to creative excellence. Ultimately, it’s about fostering meaningful relationships and delivering results that resonate.

What are some of the emerging tools and trends in the industry, and how do you plan to use/implement them?

At KNOW Creative, we understand that keeping pace with industry trends and tools is essential. We’re ready to dive deeper into data analytics and performance metrics because we know that getting sharper in these areas will help us better understand our clients’ needs and gauge the impact of our work. By integrating these tools, we can make more informed creative decisions and deliver real results for our clients, ultimately strengthening our partnerships and driving growth in an ever-competitive market.

What is your favorite podcast or book on marketing/branding?

We love tuning into shows like Chris Do’s The Future, The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett, and a newer favorite, The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes. One standout episode features a conversation with Rick Rubin about creative authenticity, which really resonates with my approach at KNOW Creative. These discussions not only inspire me but also deepen my understanding of branding and creativity.

Where can readers find out more about you and Know Creative?

https://knowcreative.com

Editor-In-Chief of Bizpreneur Middle East