Today we’d like to introduce you to Durée Ross.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I fell in love with public relations at the age of 19 during a fated college internship while I was at the University of Miami. From there, the rest was history. I incorporated Durée & Company, Inc. in 1999 while I was 24 years old. I am proud to say I still work with some of the very people I first interned with.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has most definitely not been a smooth road. But, in my book, that’s what keeps it exciting and fresh. PR is a very challenging 24/7 field where you truly never know what is coming next. I remember when I created my first logo and business card, I was afraid to be too feminine for fear men wouldn’t work with me – it was silver and blue! Since then, I have embraced the pink power and am not worried about offending anyone with our color palette. Our clients appreciate our keen eye for branding – and they know that we are sticklers to help them create and protect their brands too. One of the key things people say about us is how branded and identifiable the company is – and how much they LOVE our swag!
Becoming a mother and juggling it all was – and remains – a daily struggle. Servicing the clients while growing a business and balancing motherhood was difficult. Somehow I made it all work while raising two kids who are now 15 and 11. I will say I have a great support system and a very understanding family as there are many nights and weekends where I am working and not able to be with them.
Durée & Company, Inc. – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
When I first started my company, public relations was a different industry. It’s changed drastically with the decline in print media and the rise in online opportunities and influencers. Additionally, our biggest growth has come from existing clients who have asked us to take on more expanded roles for their companies. We’ve added marketing, special events, social media and much more. It’s allowed us to grow our offerings while still staying true to our core values. It’s an exciting time!
One thing that I hear repeatedly from our clients is that aside from being real sticklers about branding, we bring strategy to the table. I am keenly aware that the strategy we develop affects all aspects of what our client’s success will be. Sometimes we get to work on a product launch strategy and other times it may be a crisis strategy. All are extremely intense, high pressure and certainly exciting. My days are crazy busy and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me means personal internal satisfaction, a connected family, a business that strategically continues to grow, working with people that I truly like to be around, and charitable work that fulfills my soul.
Contact Info:
- Address: 10620 Griffin Road, Suite 208
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33328 - Website: https://dureeandcompany.com/
- Phone: 954.723.9350
- Email: duree@dureeandcompany.com
Image Credit:
Duree & Company, Inc.
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