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What We Do

There are brands that compete, and there are brands that define the space everyone else is competing in. We exist to create the second kind: public relations, brand strategy, and experiences, designed around your business goals by one integrated team. The goal never changes: make our clients impossible to compete with.

Public Relations

Earned media is still the most credible thing ever said about a brand. We make sure it gets said, in the places that matter.

Brand Strategy

You already know what makes you different. We define it so sharply the market stops comparing you to anyone else.

Experiences

Rooms full of the right people don't happen by accident. We design the moments a brand gets remembered for.

About Us
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The Category Standard

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Made to Measure

We don't run a playbook. Every strategy is designed around the one thing only your brand can claim. That's why the work can't be copied, and neither can you.

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Earned, Not Rented

Paid attention disappears the moment the invoice stops. We prioritize earned coverage and real relationships, the kind of credibility no budget can shortcut.

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Community Is the Asset

Buzz fades. Community compounds. We bring the right people around your brand and give them reasons to stay.

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The Long Game

We're not chasing a launch-week spike. Clients who started with a single project are still here years later. That's the plan, every time.

Case Studies

National features, record-setting openings, headlines money can't buy. Much of this work was earned under our founding name, Wawner Strategies. The name changed. The standard didn't.

COntact Us

Ben Hogan Apparel

Commonhouse

Spread Bagelry

Ibu Movement

Sweet Grass Vodka

Charleston Candle Co

Charleston Candle Co

Spread Bagelry

Ibu Movement

Commonhouse

Sweet Grass Vodka

Ben Hogan

In Their Words

We could tell you what it's like to work together. We'd rather you hear it from them.

"It has been a pleasure working with The Category over the past two years. Our initial small project has grown into a full retainer relationship due to the team's outstanding work and the results they've delivered. Their workflow management and communication have always been exceptional. I truly value our relationship with the entire team; they have evolved from contractors into trusted advisors and integral members of our team."

Pearce Fleming
Proprietor of Commonhouse Aleworks

"The Category has been an integral part of our brand strategy in new store openings in key southeast markets. Their knowledge of Charleston and the low country has been impressive. From the analysis of the local market and in-market competition to putting together a holistic view of and executing on awareness, trial, and repeatable visitation has exceeded our lofty expectations. It has been a seamless, first-rate experience."

Jamie Schrotberger
CEO, Spread Bagelry

“The Category has been a driving force in advancing our business. In less than a year of collaboration, they’ve helped us forge connections with strategic brands and secure press coverage in some of the nation’s top publications. Through the highs and lows that small businesses have faced in recent years, I can confidently say we wouldn’t be where we are today without their expertise and dedication. If you're looking for a team that truly delivers on every front."

Kristen Schwiers
Founder & Co‑Owner of Charleston Candle Co.

"The team at The Category has gone above and beyond to connect Ibu with journalists, women of influence, and unique PR opportunities that elevate the Ibu brand. The team was quick to understand the Ibu mission and story and have secured national product and editorial recognition across multiple platforms. Their service is top notch and we have been delighted to partner with The Category as we grow our non‑profit, uplifting women artisans across the globe."

Lasley Steever
CMO of Ibu Movement

“It has been a pleasure working with The Category over the past two years. Our initial small project has grown into a full retainer relationship due to The Category team's outstanding work and the results they've delivered. Their workflow management and communication have always been exceptional. I truly value our relationship with the entire team; they have evolved from contractors into trusted advisors and integral members of

Pearce Fleming
Founder & Co‑Owner of Charleston Candle Co.

"The Category has been an integral part of our brand strategy in new store openings in key southeast markets. Their knowledge of Charleston and the low country has been impressive. From the analysis of the local market and in-market competition to putting together a holistic view of and executing on awareness, trial, and repeatable visitation has exceeded our lofty expectations. It has been a seamless, first-rate experience."

Jamie Schrotberger
CEO, Spread Bagelry

“It has been a pleasure working with The Category over the past two years. Our initial small project has grown into a full retainer relationship due to The Category team's outstanding work and the results they've delivered. Their workflow management and communication have always been exceptional. I truly value our relationship with the entire team; they have evolved from contractors into trusted advisors and integral members of

Pearce Fleming
Founder & Co‑Owner of Charleston Candle Co.

"The Category has been an integral part of our brand strategy in new store openings in key southeast markets. Their knowledge of Charleston and the low country has been impressive. From the analysis of the local market and in-market competition to putting together a holistic view of and executing on awareness, trial, and repeatable visitation has exceeded our lofty expectations. It has been a seamless, first-rate experience."

Jamie Schrotberger
CEO, Spread Bagelry

Let’s Elevate Your Brand Together

Connect with us to explore how we can amplify your brand’s story and impact.

Contact Us