Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Or “Kathryn”.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been passionate about creating meaningful connections and bringing people together in ways that feel intentional and memorable. I started my career in digital marketing and media design, working with agencies and nonprofits, where I learned how to build brands from the ground up with purpose and heart.
Over time, I found myself naturally leaning into social media, storytelling, and event planning, especially within the lifestyle, wellness, and community space. I realized how much I loved turning ideas into experiences and using content to amplify voices, doing something real.
Eventually, I launched my own marketing and event services, partnering with brands like HELLO SHADE and curating my own monthly event series (with two friends) in San Diego called Mission Beats. From coordinating creatives and sponsors to building brand experiences that actually resonate, I’ve worn a lot of hats, and I love every part of it.
Right now, I’m continuing to evolve, stepping deeper into experiential marketing, creative direction, and full-scale event production. I love collaborating with people who are building something meaningful and helping them tell their story in a bold, beautiful, and engaging way. Whether it’s a brand, an event, or a vision. I’m here to help bring it to life with intention and impact!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I’ve learned so much from the challenges. One of the biggest struggles has been juggling my full-time job in legal marketing while building my own brand in marketing and events on the side. Wearing all the hats.. creative, strategist, planner, and execution—is rewarding, but it’s also exhausting. Burnout has been very real at times.
I’ve also had moments of uncertainty when it comes to direction, knowing I’m passionate about storytelling, community, and creating experiences, but not always knowing how to turn that into the right opportunities. Working solo can sometimes feel isolating, especially when all you really want is a team to bounce ideas off and build with.
Still, each challenge has helped me get clearer on what I want. I’m most fulfilled when I’m collaborating with people who care, building things that bring people together, and creating with intention. I’m still evolving, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for what’s ahead.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in marketing, events, and brand storytelling, especially for lifestyle, wellness, and community-driven projects. I’ve worked with both brands and nonprofits to develop creative strategies, manage social media, plan events, and build real, lasting connections with their audiences.
One of my proudest accomplishments is launching Mission Beats, a monthly event series in San Diego that brings together DJs, wellness brands, local sponsors (like Happy Dad & Dios Azul), and a creative community. What started as a passion project has grown into an intentional space where people feel seen, inspired, and connected. I’ve also led content and campaign work for HELLO SHADE, a brand redefining sun safety with UPF-protective driving gloves that are as cute as they are functional. “Suns out, Sleeves on,” is kind of our thing, and I make sure the message sticks.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Simply put, you can absolutely have a 9-to-5 job and still pursue your passions. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Having a stable job doesn’t mean you’ve given up on your creative goals; it means you’re giving yourself room to breathe while you build.
I’m still figuring it out as I go, but I know this: you don’t have to be stressed, broke, or burnt out to be “making it.” You can take your time, evolve, pivot, and create on your own terms. I’m proud of the path I’ve taken, even the messy parts, and excited for what’s ahead. You’re not any less ambitious because you choose balance.
I’ve also learned that when you stay true to who you are, the right people, opportunities, and energy will find you. You don’t have to chase or force what’s meant for you. Trust me, what’s meant for you won’t ghost you.
I’m still building, evolving, and figuring it out, but I’m doing it with heart. If you’re creating something meaningful or want to collaborate on a community-driven project, I’d love to connect. You can find me on Instagram @katiemurnane or at www.ktmunane.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ktmurnane.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiemurnane/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katie.murnane.96/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-murnane/
Image Credits
I took all the images. Argenis Galvez (Instagram: @argenisgalvez) took my profile picture! 🙂
