We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley & Mark Tutson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley & Mark, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
We started 1357 Agency because we saw a gap in the industry—something was missing. As believers who also love to have a good time, we noticed there were only two extremes: either content, live entertainment, and music were super ratchet, or they were overly stiff and boring. There was no real space for people like us—people who want to enjoy culture, comedy, and entertainment without compromising their faith and values.

So, 1357 Agency became the answer to that problem. We set out to create high-quality content, live experiences, and curated activations that speak to the culture but still align with our morals. We wanted to show that you don’t have to choose between faith and fun—you can have both. And that’s what makes our work not just exciting but necessary.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At 1357 Agency, we don’t wait for opportunities—we create them. What sets us apart is our experience and our mindset. Between the two of us, we’ve worked at the highest levels of entertainment and marketing—Mark spent 20 years as a Director and Producer in network television, while Ashley has been mastering project management and marketing for 10 years. That means we bring BIG innovation, strategy, and execution to everything we touch.

But here’s the real difference: we didn’t wait for clients to come knocking—we bet on ourselves. We took our own money and built our portfolio from scratch. One of our biggest proof-of-concept projects? Executive producing NotKarltonBanks’ first comedy special and his headlining tour. We showed the industry what we were capable of before they even asked. And that mindset has led us to securing deals with Fortune 500 companies and major brands in just one year of business.

Was it easy? Absolutely not. Some projects were huge wins, others? Not so much. But we learned that the only way you really fail is if you never try. Every setback was a setup for growth.

At the end of the day, we hunt for our food—we don’t sit around waiting for it to come to us. And that’s the energy we bring to every client, every project, and everything we build.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh, we’re definitely making this an experience! Since Ashley and I are both foodies, we have to start with one of our new favorites—H & W Steakhouse. The food? Top-tier. The vibe? Immaculate. It’s the perfect spot to kick things off.

We love Midtown, so next, we’re heading to Rock Steady. This place is a whole vibe—amazing food, great drinks, and the music? Elite. If you catch us upstairs, you already know the DJ lineup is fire.

Since we’re both into art, we have to make a stop at the High Museum. Whether it’s a new exhibit or just taking in the classics, it’s always inspiring.

And if you’re rolling with us on a Sunday, we’re starting the day right— at Belong Church. After that, it’s only right we wrap up with brunch at Le Bilboquet. Champagne, great food, and even better company? Sounds like the perfect way to end an epic weekend.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without a doubt, our shoutout goes to God! Individually, we’ve both had incredible careers, and that’s been nothing but God’s favor. But collectively—God did His BIG ONE. Since launching 1357 Agency, we’ve accomplished some major things in a very short time, and there’s no way we could take credit for that on our own.

Beyond that, we’re blessed to have an incredible support system. Our parents, Randy & Tammie Glass and Robin Mercer, have believed in us from the very beginning, cheering us on and standing behind our vision. And we can’t forget the mentors who have poured into us along the way—Lashaunn Tappler and Charles Johnson—their wisdom and guidance have been invaluable.

Success is never a solo journey, and we’re grateful for every person who has been part of ours.

Website: https://www.1357agency.com/

Instagram: 1357 Agency

Image Credits
Will Sterling
Brandon Rashad

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