Forward Creative: Creativity in an Evolving Digital Marketplace

Inspired by the genuine community and entrepreneurial spirit of Nova Scotia’s North Shore, mother-daughter duo Gillian Forward and Mary Ellen Makhlouf combined their unique skill sets in hopes of helping businesses to develop their digital presence in today’s online world. What began as a close working relationship between the two in a branding business that Gillian previously owned, Forward Creative officially established itself in 2020 as the family-operated business it is known as today. Forward Creative’s team possesses an in-depth understanding of marketing services that include branding, digital and print marketing, and graphic design. The company’s expertise stems from the dedicated collaborative approach that Mary Ellen and Gillian apply to their work ethic along with their commitment to their clients’ success. With Mary Ellen’s extensive experience in website development and strategic digital marketing and Gillian’s creative skills, developed through years of experience in branding, marketing, and event planning, the team is well positioned to help businesses achieve their digital goals. Within the first six months of operation, Forward Creative’s passion for creating meaningful relationships helped diversify and expand their client base throughout Nova Scotia. Their team collaborates with clients across the Maritimes and Ontario - all from their headquarters located in Pugwash, Nova Scotia and their satellite office in Sydney, Cape Breton. Forward Creative has since grown steadily thanks to their goal-orientated approach to every customer needs and their inclusive team. It’s the creativity and dedication to growing along with the ever-evolving digital marketplace that really helps Forward Creative stand out amongst competitors. By forming marketing strategies that align with every client's values, dreams and plans for the future, Forward Creative becomes an integral part of each organization. They encourage open communication with clients and work hard to make sure they are available when they are needed most. Despite the hardships and trying times that were presented during the Covid-19 pandemic, Forward Creative, a small entrepreneurial business itself, developed a deeper understanding of how to best support their clients. They were inspired by the resilience observed within their community and were driven to support people’s goals. The team saw many rural businesses in dire need of support to enter into the digital realm and committed themselves to helping those in need to quickly navigate and adjust to e-store and delivery transactions to survive in business. Sometimes, out of compassion, the service they provided was complimentary. Forward Creative lives by their values and always focuses on helping rural Nova Scotian businesses flourish. At Digital Nova Scotia, we’ve seen it first hand. Forward Creative actively participates with our Tourism Digital Assistance Program (TDAP), helping connect Nova Scotia’s tourism industry with the necessary digital tools needed to uplift their businesses. Their expertise has increased national visibility, provided companies with a competitive edge, and improved credibility. If one thing is certain, Forward Creative possesses a strong commitment to excellence. Regardless of size, industry or digital presence, they are determined to provide the correct services to better support your business’ future aspirations. If you would like to learn more about how Forward Creative can contribute to your company’s success, please visit forwardcreative.ca/free-consultation/ book a free consultation.