Ashlar Projects Review: A Creative Powerhouse That Gets Results

Introduction: When Vision Meets Execution

A few years ago, I was stuck in that frustrating cycle of working with marketing agencies that almost got my brand—close enough to tease, but never quite hitting the mark. Then I found Ashlar Projects, the brainchild of Brooke Hortenstine and Missy Wyszynski, and suddenly, my candle business wasn’t just another flicker in a crowded market. Their team didn’t just listen; they translated my ideas into a visual language that resonated with customers. The result? A measurable sales bump and branding so cohesive it felt like magic.

What sets Ashlar apart? They’re equal parts artists and strategists, blending creativity with razor-sharp business acumen. Whether it’s logos, websites, or social campaigns, they treat every project like a bespoke suit—tailored, intentional, and unmistakably you.

The Ashlar Experience: Breaking It Down

1. Strategic Creativity That Moves the Needle

Other agencies gave me pretty designs; Ashlar gave me a system. Their marketing plans aren’t just aesthetic—they’re engineered for impact. For my candle line, they revamped everything from packaging (turning minimalist jars into storytelling canvases) to Instagram content that actually drove engagement. Sales increased, and customer feedback consistently mentioned how "elevated" the brand felt. Brooke’s knack for "making boring things magical" (a client’s spot-on words) is real—she sees potential where others see a blank slate.

2. No-Nonsense Collaboration

Ever worked with creatives who tiptoe around feedback? Not here. Ashlar’s team is refreshingly direct. During concept reviews, they’d say, "This color palette feels off-brand—let’s pivot" or "That tagline isn’t sticky enough." Their honesty saved us time (and money), and their iterative process ensured we landed on solutions that worked, not just looked nice. One client put it perfectly: "They’re blunt, but it’s because they care about the outcome."

3. Project Management That Adapts

Deadlines? Crushed. Last-minute tweaks? Handled. While some noted response times could tighten (hey, everyone’s busy), their flexibility under pressure impressed me. Need a weekend call? They’d pick up. Rush a campaign? Done. Their emails are detailed, their timelines transparent, and they anticipate roadblocks before they derail progress.

4. Relationships Over Transactions

Many agencies churn out work and vanish. Ashlar builds partnerships. They remember your brand’s quirks, celebrate your wins, and course-correct when needed. A client mentioned returning for a third project because "they treat our goals like their own." That longevity speaks volumes.

Pros & Cons at a Glance

Strengths

✅ Visionary yet practical—creativity with ROI in mind.
✅ Brutally honest feedback (in the best way).
✅ Reliable under tight deadlines.
✅ Holistic branding—they connect dots you didn’t see.
✅ Long-term relationship focus; they invest in your growth.

Areas to Note

⚠️ Occasional delays in communication (though they hustle when urgency strikes).
⚠️ Not the cheapest—but you’re paying for strategic thinking, not just pixels.

Final Verdict: Worth the Investment

Ashlar Projects isn’t just another agency. They’re the secret weapon for brands tired of generic solutions. If you want a team that’ll challenge your thinking, elevate your visuals, and genuinely root for your success, they’re the real deal. Minor hiccups? Sure—but as one client said, "When they deliver, they deliver."

Bottom line: If you’re ready to stop compromising and start standing out, Ashlar’s your match.