living our best work

After decades of working in advertising and driving insights into the market with well-honed creative, the part we loved most was the celebratory toast around a bonfire. That’s why we formed Bonfire Effect in 2015 with a core group of smart, design-driven, realllllly good-looking folks. Our goal is to extend that gathering to all who want better experiences without compromising creative.

Spread contagious love.

Love your coworkers and clients by getting to know them as people, understanding where they are at, and honoring where they want to go.

Let go,
have fun.

Generate joy for yourself and others by intentionally looking for ways to fuel fun.

Be fearlessly creative.

Have the courage to be adventurous, change your perspective, and constantly seek new solutions.

 

Do the
right thing.

Stand for something, be there for someone, show grace, and pursue what’s best – not what’s easy.

meet our leadership team

The planners, dreamers, and fire-starters of Bonfire Effect.

Travis
Barhaug

Founder / Chief Executive Officer

Cyclist by early morning, creative savant until Happy Hour, Travis oversees all creative strategy, direction, and execution at Bonfire.

Brenda
Barhaug

Founder / Chief Operating Officer

A former math teacher, Brenda ensures that Bonfire’s math-challenged liberal arts majors keep their sh*t together. She’s also the best skier in the office.

Ben
Aaker

VP of Client Services

When he’s not influencing on TikTok, Ben wields his uncanny PowerPoint design skills, 10-plus years of industry experience, and savvy strategy to help you hit your goals.

Ashley
Everett

Creative Director

An Auburn graduate with auburn hair? Coincidence, or the perfect blend of creativity and strategy? We’ll go with the latter. We’ll also go with her homemade cinnamon rolls, which are *chef’s kiss*

Kathy
Donovan

Account Director

Meet Kathy, your go-to Account Director with a penchant for Irish whiskey, a loyal Irish Setter by her side, a paddle board as her escape, and 15 years of marketing expertise to drive your success!

Isaac
Bartholomew

Enterprise Integrator + Talent Acquisition

Isaac is a rare crossbreed of social butterfly and silver fox. When he’s not excelling as Nicest Guy In The Office, he shuttles his three kiddos and laments cat ownership.