Author John C. Maxwell once said: Change is inevitable; growth is optional.
As Vibe celebrated its fifth birthday this January, those words hit differently than they did three years ago. Back then, we were a scrappy two-year-old startup fighting against the statistics that say 30% of businesses fail in their second year. Today? We're thriving at five and continuously evolving.
And we're ready to show it.
Five years in business is a milestone worth celebrating. It means we've weathered economic shifts, a global pandemic, and the everyday challenges that come with running a digital marketing agency in Hawai‘i. More importantly, it means we've had five years to learn who we are and what we're really here to do.
Spoiler alert: We've outgrown our name. And our mission. And our vision. (In the best possible way!)
Remember when we said growth isn't optional? We meant it. As we reflected on five years of wins, lessons, pivots, and growth, we realized something important: the mission and vision we set in our early days no longer captured the full scope of who Vibe has become.
We started as Vibe Creative Marketing—a name that made sense when we were defining ourselves. But over the past five years, we've evolved into something bigger. We're not just a marketing agency. We're storytellers. Community cheerleaders. Strategic partners invested in the success of Hawai‘i's values-driven organizations.
So we simplified our name to Vibe Creative and clarified our purpose: We exist to amplify the voices of values-driven organizations, because when Hawai‘i businesses flourish, everyone thrives.
That's not marketing jargon. That's our lived experience. We've seen it happen with every local organization we've partnered with: when they succeed, the ripple effect touches families, neighborhoods, and our entire community.
We do this through creative marketing solutions that make a positive difference, telling authentic stories that build connection, increase engagement, and drive growth. With a strategic approach, collaborative spirit, and vibrant energy, we're your trusted marketing partner engaged in the success of your business.
Our team. Our values. Our commitment to Hawai‘i. The good vibes that put the vibe in Vibe Creative.
We're still the same process-driven, respectfully communicative team that anticipates your needs and shows up ready to bring your brand's story to life. We just have a clearer understanding of why we do what we do, and a fresh look to match.
If you're wondering whether it's time to reevaluate your own company's purpose, here are a few insights from our journey:
1. Growth requires honest reflection
Don't wait for a crisis to reassess who you are. Schedule regular check-ins with yourself and your team. Are you still aligned with your mission? Does your brand reflect who you've become? If the answer is no, it's not failure, it’s growth.
2. Your mission should inspire action, not just decorate your website
A mission statement isn't wallpaper (though we love a fun wallpaper). It should guide decision-making, shape your culture, and remind you why you show up every day. If yours doesn't do that, it's time for a refresh.
3. Evolution is a sign of health
Companies that refuse to evolve are companies that get left behind (although, there is still one Blockbuster location left?). Whether you're in year two or year five (or year twenty), staying curious about who you're becoming is what keeps you relevant, energized, and ready for whatever comes next.
4. Change doesn't stop. Embrace it!
Three years ago, we told you to expect to repeat this exercise. Well, here we are, taking our own advice. And honestly? It feels great! Evolution isn't a detour from success, it's proof of it.
More of what we do best: amplifying the voices of organizations that are building something meaningful in Hawai‘i. Telling authentic stories. Creating strategic marketing solutions. Fostering community.
Just with a clearer mission, a sharper vision, and a logo that matches the energy we bring to every partnership.
Here's to five years of growth, evolution, and good vibes. And to the next five years of amplifying the voices that make Hawai‘i thrive.
Ready to bring your brand's story to life? Let's chat.
Change is inevitable; growth is optional. At Vibe Creative, we choose growth…every single time.
