We had the good fortune of connecting with Russell Clark and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Russell, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I did not want to be controlled by anyone. I wanted to make my own decisions and create a business that represented my vision and talents. Having this kind of attitude is typical of those who are entrepreneurs, however, I didn’t have anyone to guide me at that time. Most of my circle worked in corporate, and I did too. I just realized that I was not cut out for it. At that time being an entrepreneur wasn’t celebrated like it is now. So I had to be strategic and learn the business of experiential marketing.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

Owning our assets allows us to go from ideation to execution. Our clients don’t need to go anywhere else for what they need to create the perfect event. There is no need to look for staff, equipment or execution. We can do it all start to finish.

We have been chosen as the agency that will handle the World Games Plaza at the 2022 World Games which will highlight

I know it sounds cliche, but, I had a strong belief in myself, and I projected confidence in what I wanted to do even when I didn;t know what I was doing! I just kept going and learned along the way. I did a lot of things wrong, but I knew I was going to win. Sometimes ego and pride has its advantages.

Was it easy? Hell no. Anything worth having wont be easy. There will be disappointments and setbacks, but the wins are always greater than the loses. Learn to love the process. I love constructing deals and the process of winning a new client is one of my greatest

It is my goal to leave a legacy that encourages others to follow their dreams. I am thankful to be able to provide jobs for others and share my knowledge with my team. We can’t all impact the world the way a celebrity or politician can, but we can impact those around us who in turn will also impact others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
McKinnons Louisiana – one of my favorite spots for great food
Cigar City, possible cigar lounge hop – I love a good cigar, so this would be a must

Beltline – there is no better way to see Atlanta than the beltline!

Falcons Tailgate and Game in the fall – if its a fall visit, this is a must!

College Football Hall of Fame – I’m football fan, but even if your not, this is a must see. It’s beautiful.

Trap Music Museum – This is a fun one-of-a-kind museum that has a bar.

Krog Street Restaurants – So many choices…

Slutty Vegan – A fun place that has become an Atlanta landmark, you got get a sloppy toppy before you leave the A!

Ponce City Market or Coca Cola Roxy and Battery Park- Both of these just equal fun, fun, fun!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents were instrumental in shaping my entrepreneurial journey. I had support and was encouraged to take the risk of becoming a business owner without the fear of failing. My father was my mentor and supported my efforts in a very unique way. He didn’t give me money, but his advice in how to handle business situations was invaluable to me. I remember so many of our conversations and the messages that still resonate with me in my business life.

One of the best messages he taught me was that no one can succeed on their own. This is so true. You have to build a team of individuals that believe in you and the vision you have for your business. Most importantly, they have to see themselves as an important part of the vision. I am very thankful for my team and the hard work they put into making CTE Marketing a success.

Website: ctemarketing.net

Instagram: @ctemarketing and @russell_cte

Linkedin: Russell Clark and CTE Marketing

Facebook: CTE Marketing

Image Credits
CTE Marketing owns this photo.

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