Austin is frequently recognized as one of the most entrepreneurial cities in the country, bustling with creative personalities and professionals looking to start a new business or expand their existing sales. 

Local business owner Suzanne Vernau has found a way to let her own entrepreneurial spirit thrive while helping others reach their business goals and dreams. Vernau is the founder of Upbeat Marketing, an Austin-based marketing firm that got its start in 2009. 

Vernau began her career in the financial services industry in 2004, working directly with well-known insurance and annuity providers to market their products to a field of high-end financial advisors across the country. 

“My experience in the corporate world expanded my knowledge of sales and marketing,” she said, “but I knew that my independence would eventually land me in small business.” 

In fact, Vernau is no stranger to small business; her father and maternal grandfather were both successful entrepreneurs who have since passed their businesses on to their sons.

Determined to find her own way, Vernau then switched gears and took a position as the marketing director for a local triathlon training club called Austin T3. 

“Working at T3 was eye-opening,” she said. “I learned so much about how small businesses operate behind the scenes, as well as the hard work and dedication it takes.” 

It was this experience that gave Vernau the vision for Upbeat Marketing. 

“I believe in the power of marketing, starting with a well-thought-out marketing strategy and executing clear and consistent messaging,” she said. “At Austin T3, I saw the training club grow and flourish in just one year with new marketing programs in place.”

An honor graduate from the Red McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, Vernau soon discovered that she had a passion for fueling growth in local business. 

Just a few months later, Upbeat Marketing was thriving with a list of diverse clients that spanned several industries, including medical professionals, health and fitness providers, retail shops and restaurants. 

When asked about the fast-paced growth of Upbeat Marketing, Vernau said, “Living in Austin for nearly 11 years now, I was fortunate to have several personal relationships in place that led to our first few projects as a new marketing firm. 

“Referrals and word-of-mouth continue to be our main source of growth, and we experience success by always maintaining a strong focus on building relationships with new clients. Building trust and having fun with our clients is the key.”

Upbeat Marketing operates as a full-service marketing agency, providing services such as marketing strategy, branding and design, social media, public relations, event promotion and search engine optimization. 

“Our goal is to streamline the marketing process for small business owners, providing one point of contact for all aspects of marketing and promotions,” Vernau said. “We assign an account manager who works directly with the business owner, and then have a team of specialists in place to handle technical questions and special projects.” 

Not limited to small business owners, Upbeat Marketing has also contracted with established companies such as the LIVESTRONG Foundation. 

“Working with Upbeat Marketing was more than an incredible experience,” said Colleen Legge, Team LIVESTRONG manager. “Team LIVESTRONG had the goal of bringing at least three times more runners than 2009 to the LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon and Half Marathon. 

“In 2010, we took 57 runners who collectively raised $32,500. In 2011, we took 480+ participants and raised upwards of $335,000. And this is because of the grassroots marketing plan that Upbeat implemented for us. Suzanne is pleasant to work with, smart, and is not afraid to take risks.”

In talking about the changing landscape of business, Upbeat Marketing notes an increase in requests for online marketing. 

“It is imperative for all businesses to have an online presence in today’s business world,” Vernau said. “To be effective, we’ve created packages that emphasize social media and search engine optimization, including online reviews, testimonials, pay-per-click advertising, listings in online directories, external links and more.

“Most business owners don’t have the time or energy to learn the ins and outs of online marketing, or how to stay at the top of Google. We take care of the details and let them focus on what they know best.” 

Upbeat Marketing is a small firm with a big heart, often donating time and expertise to nonprofit organizations and events, including Please BE KIND to Cyclists (www.bekindtocyclists.org) and the Minister’s Cup Golf Tournament (www.ministerscup.golfreg.com), benefiting Austin’s Samaritan Center (www.samaritan-center.org).

Two years after its inception, Upbeat Marketing works with a broad client base, including the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse, Austin Archery Country, Capital Ob/Gyn Associates of Texas, ROL Wheels, Starwood Pools and Avery Ranch Eye Care.

“Our goal is to the bridge the gap for small businesses by providing professional marketing services on a contract basis, always keeping our clients’ budgets in mind,” Vernau said. “We get to know every client on a personal level and act as an extension of their internal team. Our clients’ goals are always top priority.”

For more information on Upbeat Marketing, visit www.upbeatmarketingaustin.com, or call 512-417-0070.