Ampersand Studios Review: A Creative Powerhouse for Branding & Marketing

Let’s be real—starting a business is exhilarating, but the moment you realize no one knows you exist, that excitement can quickly turn into panic. That’s where Ampersand Studios comes in. Founded by Nichole and Frannie, two illustrators turned branding experts, this dynamic duo has spent over a decade helping businesses craft identities that stand out. What began as a recession-era hustle in Idaho has evolved into a go-to resource for entrepreneurs who want to build a brand that actually connects with people.

I stumbled upon Ampersand Studios while drowning in the sea of generic marketing advice online. Their approach—rooted in creativity, strategy, and a refreshing lack of corporate jargon—immediately stood out. Here’s what makes them worth your attention.

1. Branding That Feels Human (Not Robotic)

Ampersand’s philosophy is simple: Your brand isn’t just a logo or a color palette—it’s the soul of your business. Nichole and Frannie’s background in illustration gives them a keen eye for visual storytelling, but what really impressed me was their focus on authenticity. Their courses and client work emphasize personality-driven branding, which is a breath of fresh air in a world of cookie-cutter templates.

If there’s one critique, it’s that their style leans toward the artistic and whimsical, which might not suit ultra-minimalist or corporate-focused businesses. But for creatives, solopreneurs, and small businesses? Perfect.

2. Online Courses That Don’t Put You to Sleep

After years of working with clients, Ampersand Studios expanded into online education—and thank goodness they did. Their courses (like their branding work) are engaging, practical, and free of fluff. Instead of overwhelming you with theory, they break down branding and marketing into actionable steps.

What I appreciated most was their emphasis on doing rather than just consuming. No vague "find your why" lectures here—just clear, structured guidance on everything from defining your audience to designing visuals that resonate. The only downside? I wish they had even more courses on advanced marketing strategies beyond branding basics.

3. A Personal Touch in a Digital World

One thing that sets Ampersand apart is their genuine, down-to-earth vibe. Unlike some marketing gurus who feel like they’re selling a lifestyle rather than real skills, Nichole and Frannie come across as mentors who’ve been in the trenches. Their Instagram and blog content is packed with relatable struggles (hello, imposter syndrome!) and practical tips—no toxic positivity or empty hype.

That said, their small-team approach means they’re not churning out content at the speed of some larger agencies. If you’re looking for daily webinars or a massive library of resources, you might need to supplement elsewhere. But for quality over quantity? They deliver.

Pros & Cons at a Glance

👍 The Good Stuff

• Unique, artistic branding approach – No generic templates here.
• Practical, engaging courses – Perfect for visual learners and doers.
• Authentic, relatable teaching style – No ego, just real talk.
• Strong focus on storytelling – Because people buy from people, not faceless brands.

👎 The Not-So-Good (But Not Dealbreakers)

• Limited advanced marketing content – Great for branding foundations, but you may need extra resources for scaling.
• Whimsical aesthetic may not suit all industries – Corporate clients might want something sleeker.
• Smaller content output – Don’t expect a constant flood of new material.

Final Thoughts: Who Is Ampersand Studios For?

If you’re a creative entrepreneur, small business owner, or someone who wants a brand that feels like you, Ampersand Studios is a fantastic resource. Nichole and Frannie’s blend of artistry and strategy makes branding accessible without dumbing it down.

They won’t magically make your business an overnight success (no one can), but they’ll give you the tools to build a brand that actually connects with your audience. And in a world full of noise, that’s priceless.