We’re an honest, passionate team of strategic + creative storytellers.
Hearth Agency is a full-service marketing + advertising agency specializing in real estate. We believe in the importance of belonging. It’s more than just finding your place. It’s research. It’s placemaking. Friend-making. Teambuilding. Everyone deserves the opportunity to find their tribe, and our ideal blend of experience and expertise will help make that happen. At Hearth, our clients work directly with the co-founders on every project to bring brands to life.
Our story begins in 2006 at Roni Hicks & Associates—a 40-year old advertising institution specializing in marketing real estate. In walks Ari Wells, fresh out of SDSU’s School of Art + Design, eager to start her career in advertising. A mutual love of the 80s and placemaking lead to an unbeatable partnership with then-marketing coordinator, Ellen Wong. Flash forward to 2019—after 13+ years of working side by side, it was overwhelmingly apparent that Ellen and Ari would stick together and start something new.
We started Hearth Agency together, to continue working with—and on—all the things we ♥
Ellen Wong
Co-Founder, President
Chief Executive Officer
Ellen found a launchpad for her passion for marketing while attending the prestigious New York University. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Media and Communications, Ellen realized she was destined to live in perfect weather year round and returned to her San Diego roots. She soon joined Roni Hicks & Associates, where she spent the next 14 years working her way up to Account Services Director. Ellen led the account team to deliver unrivaled, proven strategy and highly engaging campaigns to clients, including three of the 50 master-planned communities that were on the RCLCO Real Estate Advisors list of top-selling communities in 2019.
Ari Wells
Co-Founder, Vice President
Chief Creative Officer
Ardent artist at heart, Ari is constantly creating. Growing up with a strong family of teachers and artists, she was always encouraged in her creative pursuits. From wallpapering her entire bedroom with Got Milk and Absolut campaigns, to making logos for every extracurricular club in high school—all signs pointed her to a career in design. She thrived as an art major at SDSU, where she embraced her passion to tell stories via thoughtful typography and tantalizing visuals. In 2006, she accepted a position as Graphic Designer with Roni Hicks & Associates. 10 years later, she was leading her department as Creative Director on all agency accounts. Her smart, exuberant aesthetic continues to drive captivating, successful campaigns for clients across North America.
Trusted collaborators
Every professional we collaborate with is not only an expert, but they specialize in the business of building community. Get to know our brilliant friends!
FAQ
Why ‘hearth’?
When were you established?
We opened our doors on November 4, 2019—but we've been partners in business for 15 years!
Where are your offices?
We work in a 100% virtual office environment. Being fully remote lets us work practically anywhere. In today's world, we believe this is the best way to stay nimble and service our clients both effectively and efficiently. Plus, it brings our clients' costs down, which no one seems to be complaining about ;)
What kind of work do you do?
We bring people and places together. We tell stories. We ask questions. We dig deep. We must know all sides of the story to best tell yours. We create, cultivate, and nurture your brand, all the while ensuring that the brand itself and your audience truly align. Only then will your brand take on a living, breathing life of its own. It becomes an experience—a community.
How can I contact you?