Q&A with Founder and Marketing Director, Katelyn Fouladgar
Katelyn Fouladgar, Founder & Marketing Director of GIGI Marketing, talks about her approach to marketing and the story behind the business. Based in London, GIGI Marketing helps small and medium-sized businesses grow through impactful, cohesive marketing strategies.
Q: What’s GIGI Marketing all about?
At its heart, GIGI Marketing is about empowering small to medium-sized businesses that may not have a full-time marketing team. We simplify marketing, making it accessible and effective, with a focus on building consistent momentum and driving conversions. It’s about creating marketing systems that work together seamlessly.
Q: What’s the meaning behind the name GIGI Marketing?
I get asked this a lot… why “GIGI”? My grandfather’s name was Bijan, but when I was younger we somehow started calling him “GIGI.” I honestly have no idea why it stuck.
He taught me so much growing up. As an Iranian living in the UK, he showed me how to start a business from scratch and always encouraged me to follow my dreams. I know he would be incredibly proud to see me start my own business. He sadly passed away during COVID, but I always felt he would have wanted me to take this leap.
Naming the agency GIGI is my way of honouring him. And to be honest, it just felt right, the word seems fun and modern, exactly the vibe I want the agency to bring.
Q: What’s your superpower as a marketer?
Creativity paired with hands-on experience. I’ve navigated everything from technical tasks to design, whether working solo or as part of a team. That adaptability is definitely my superpower.
Q: Why choose to start your own business rather than staying in a corporate role?
It’s always been a dream to build something of my own. My journey from writing to PR and finally to marketing has given me a deep understanding of what businesses need. I knew if I stayed in corporate, there would have always been a “what if?” going around my head. I am very much the type of person who would rather strive for a meaningful goal than be on a path that doesn’t feel 100% right to me. Running my own agency allows me to stay agile, explore new strategies, and truly understand the investment and effort involved in growing a business.
Q: How do you approach marketing?
With meticulous attention and a personalised approach. I don’t just onboard clients and move on, I build long-lasting relationships. Every brand is unique, and I tailor strategies to ensure their specific needs are met.
Q: What types of clients do you love working with?
I have a strong passion for e-commerce and event marketing. I enjoy helping brands boost online sales and create memorable events. Every project is a new opportunity to shine.
Q: Can you share a project you’re proud of?
One client saw a 200% increase in conversions in just three months after we revamped their strategy. It was incredibly rewarding to see those results. These were a mixture of quick fixes and finding a marketing strategy that would work for them. I strive to achieve results and see the immediate impact it can have on the business. We are now in an era where marketing is so important both digitally and offline. There are so many ways to communicate with your audience; it is just doing it effectively that can be groundbreaking.
Q: How do you make clients feel confident working with you?
I’m not just a marketer… I’m a businesswoman. I understand the investment and effort that goes into running a business. I create efficient onboarding processes and ensure that marketing doesn’t add to their stress. I’m genuinely committed to achieving results without any jargon.
Q: What’s a marketing myth that drives you crazy?
The belief that going viral is the ultimate goal. Not every platform is right for every brand. It’s more about personalised, meaningful connections than trying to be everywhere at once.
Q: What is the best way for people to communicate with you or reach out?
I am open to anyone who would like a conversation. That’s why I keep the initial call as completely no-obligation with zero pressure. If I can genuinely help, I will definitely communicate that. Even if we part ways, I love speaking with people about their businesses and their stories. They can reach out to me anyway, whether it’s call or LinkedIn, whatever they feel comfortable with.
Are you looking for marketing for your business? GIGI Marketing is here to build momentum for your brand every day. Click on the button below to contact us.