Beyond the Brand is a proudly women-owned business that has defied the odds in a male-dominated industry. We built our brand from the ground up—and it worked! With a fresh approach to branding and marketing, we help businesses that don’t have the time or resources to develop their brand identity. Our expertise ensures that your story stands out, resonates with the right audience, and drives real growth. At Beyond the Brand, we don’t just create brands—we build legacies.

WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS STRATEGY

Traci Hess

Co-owner of BTB, Traci doesn’t just follow trends—she sets them. As VP of Brand at W3 Sales, she blends creativity with strategy to bring brands to life through eye-catching content and innovative marketing. When she’s not shaping the next big thing in foodservice, she’s sharing mouthwatering inspiration as a food blogger, keeping industry pros and food lovers coming back for more.

BREAKING THE MOLD, BUILDING THE BRAND

Nancy Ridlen

Co-owner of BTB, Nancy doesn’t just follow the rules—she rewrites them. A bold entrepreneur and brand builder, she helped shape W3 into a powerhouse by pushing boundaries and redefining expectations. As the host of Confessions Beyond the Food, she dives into the stories behind the industry, always searching for that wow factor. Through Beyond the Brand, Nancy keeps the momentum going, helping clients stand out and think bigger than ever before.

MAKING BIG IDEAS HAPPEN

Shelley Budke

If there’s a plan, Shelley Budke is the one who makes it happen. As Beyond the Brand’s project manager, she turns ideas into reality, guiding clients through the process with precision and a little bit of magic. From building W3’s lead generator to keeping projects on track, Shelley ensures every detail is handled—delivering results beyond expectations every time.

SEEING THE WORLD THROUGH A DIFFERENT LENS

Courtney Mitchell

Courtney Mitchell doesn’t just take pictures—she tells stories. As Beyond the Brand’s in-house photographer and owner of CocoPaige Photography, she captures the essence of every brand with her artistic vision. Whether it’s food, people, or behind-the-scenes magic, her creativity brings visuals to life in ways that leave a lasting impression.

Contact Us

We have received your message and will contact you shortly

View Receipt View Submission

Who We Are