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Every year when I sit down to write this reflection piece, I always feel a mix of emotions.
2024, without question, brought its fair share of challenges and obstacles. But it’s also been a year of growth, transformation, and setting the foundation for what comes next.
The creative and marketing space has been tested by economic pressures that shook the industry as a whole, and we’ve been no exception. We said goodbye to some long-standing clients and welcomed new partnerships, albeit at a slower pace than anticipated. However, the challenges inspired us to pause, adapt, and focus on what truly matters - building resilience and positioning ourselves for long-term success.
2024 was our year of looking inward.
We took the time to refine our internal processes and the tools we rely on. At the heart of these changes was a commitment to doubling down on what makes us, us. We leaned into creativity and innovation, supported by clients who trusted us to think differently, explore new avenues, and develop fresh, results-driven solutions.
One of our biggest lessons this year? The importance of alignment. We launched our goal-setting workshops for all new clients, a transformative step in how we collaborate. These workshops aren’t just about identifying targets - they’re about creating mutual accountability, ensuring every campaign aligns with business objectives, and delivering outcomes that empower lasting growth.
We also redefined how we present ourselves. GEL Studios has proudly delivered Graphic Design and Branding services for nearly a decade, as well as Marketing services for just shy of four years. Yet, we’ve often been perceived as just a “website agency” - a legacy we’re proud of but one that no longer tells the full story of what we do. In 2024, we refreshed our messaging to communicate our full range of integrated services, all built around one thing: delivering strategies that truly meet client goals with clarity and confidence.
Among this year’s highlights was the launch of Service Essentials, our gold standard for how websites and their infrastructure should be hosted. This offering reflects over a decade of expertise and is designed to help clients feel confident their online platforms are operating at peak performance.
If 2024 was the year of looking inward, 2025 will be the year of impact.
Growth is on the horizon for GEL Studios - not just through bigger projects but through a deeper commitment to making a difference in our community. Reflecting on the past 12 months, we’re proud to have supported 17 local causes through our pro-bono work, gifting over 1,000 hours of time and expertise.
In 2025, we’re taking this one step further by focusing our efforts on a single cause, channelling all of our resources to create lasting change. We’re excited to announce Swindon Carers Centre as our 2025 Charity Partner. Starting in January, we’ll be designing and launching a brand-new website and executing a year-long marketing campaign to raise vital awareness and donations. This is an opportunity to not only uplift a cause close to our hearts but also to exemplify the power of creativity and collaboration in driving social change.
Next year will undoubtedly bring its challenges. It always does. But no matter what obstacles come our way, I have absolute confidence in our ability to navigate them together and emerge stronger. To my incredible team, past and present, thank you for your hard work, creativity, and unwavering dedication. This year’s successes - and the lessons we’ve learned - wouldn’t have been possible without you.
To our clients, customers, and supporters, your trust, loyalty, and encouragement mean the world to us. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. We look forward to continuing to create, grow, and succeed together in the year ahead. Wishing you all a joyful and restful festive season. Here’s to an impactful 2025.
