Beware of the company you keep.

When we started this agency, we made a calculated decision to only partner with people who valued the same things we do.

People that wanted to use their resources and talents to make things better in this world instead of just doing anything to make a buck. And that filter wasn't just about which clients we took on; it was also about the people we team up with, from employees to web developers to researchers and everyone in-between.

Being selective about what company you keep is a simple concept, but sticking to it in practice isn't always easy when building a business from the ground up. But the alternative can mean promoting brands that have a negative impact, and that can be soul-destroying.

We cringe when we hear creative agencies claiming to be purpose-driven, but see oil and gas companies, fast food chains, or big tobacco right there on their client roster. Yes, they may be part of a larger parent company and therefore have the pressure to hit their quarterly numbers, but at what cost? Wouldn't it be nice if they stopped promoting bad stuff and learned they could still have a viable business?

Creative agencies can become part of a growing movement by joining Clean Creatives and vow never to work in oil and gas. Or become a fellow B Corp, join Pledge 1%, or become a member of their local green business network. Imagine the delight of potential partners or recruits at seeing companies standing up for what they believe? That's how you attract the type of talent who want their workplace to reflect their values.

Now that we're nine years in, doubling down on our values has proven to be the best decision we ever made. It's why partners come to us - because we stand up for what we believe and understand the impact brands can have on people, the planet, and animals.

We often think that if a small company like us can do it, anyone can. We hope it might inspire others to follow suit and are here to offer any help along the way. So just give us a shout!