Michele Overgard
Account Manager

What got you started in advertising?

I worked for a company that had next to nothing for a marketing budget. We were evaluated on sales, but not given the tools to market our products. I was very discouraged and knew that I wanted to work for a company that gave its employees the tools to do their jobs. When I learned that there was an open position at Ovation Marketing, I jumped at the chance to work for a forward-thinking company.

Who was a big influence in your career?

John Ryan. He was more like an advisor than a company president.

What was “your finest moment,” the thing you’re most proud of?

Well, as cheesy as it may sound, marrying my husband is probably my finest moment. He is a person of impeccable character. He is inspiring, compassionate, supportive, and a hell of a lot of fun. I couldn’t ask for more.

What was your most embarrassing moment in this business?

Well, it didn’t happen in this business, but I once fell asleep at a dinner meeting in Hong Kong. I was with the owner of the company that I worked for and several of his business acquaintances. It was my first time in Asia, so the time change had thrown my internal clock into complete chaos. I woke to a table of laughing faces. Luckily, no one took it personally. In fact, many of them had stories about their own jet lag experiences that they went on to share.

What attracted you to Ovation?

The creative, healthy environment was a huge attraction for me.

How do you come up with ideas and solutions for clients?

I try to learn as much as I can about the client and their customers.

What makes a great brand?

It is easily recognizable and invokes emotion.

What driving career goals do you still have?

I would like to own my own business.

What's your biggest pet peeve? (work or personal)

I have a few – poor table manners, using the last of the toilet paper (and leaving the roll empty), dirty
dishes in the sink, and the improper use of the word, borrow (it makes me cringe).

What's the most important thing you've learned about advertising?

Think outside of the box.

What talent do you wish you had?

I wish that I could sing. I have a terrible singing voice as does my husband. Still, we enjoy singing and tend to sing in the car at the top of our lungs.

If you had to live on a desert island, what would you miss most?

I would miss butter, garlic, my family and friends, hot showers, hand lotion, and lip balm.

What can't you live without?

Food and water

What are your plans for after advertising?

Start my own business, attend culinary school, spend more time with my friends and family, garden, travel, and nap.

Is there any food that helps you think more creatively?

Coffee – strong, no cream, no sugar

What’s your favorite sports team?

Well, I was born and raised to love the greatest American football team of all time . . . the Green Bay Packers. When I was growing up, they were really struggling. I learned from watching my Dad that a true fan always supports their team.

If you could spend a day with any person, living or dead, who would it be and what would you do?

I would spend the day with my Dad. He died two months before my wedding and I would like him to see how my life has evolved. We would probably spend the morning at my house drinking coffee and planning our day. Then we would drive around to several stores to find just the right ingredients for our evening meal. We would cook and drink several glasses of wine in the process. Late in the evening, we would sit down to a gorgeous meal and talk for hours.

What’s your point of view about politics?

I think that we have an excellent framework for our government: the Constitution for the United States of America and the Bill of Rights. I’m not sure if the majority of politicians have knowledge of these documents.

Do you have any pets?

Yes, I have a lovely little Labradoodle, Maggie. She has big, brown, soulful eyes and a shiny black nose.

What was growing up like for you?

I grew up in southern Wisconsin and was the youngest of four children (my oldest sister is 20 years older than me). My parents were very strict and would often say no just to make a point. It taught me to question authority.

What do you for a good time when you’re not working?

Spend time with my family and friends, walk and play with my puppy, kayak, cook, host dinner parties, and pamper myself with a trip to the spa.

Do you have any kids?

Yes, I have a terrific stepson, Ethan. He is ten-years old and never ceases to amaze me with his perspective on life.

What advertising/catalogs do you most admire?

I’m impressed with Restoration Hardware and Williams-Sonoma catalogs. Also, I admire Coca-Cola. No matter what country you’re in, you can always identify their product.

What are your favorite internet sites?

I love Google and Expedia.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

I would love to spend time in the Mediterranean basking in the sun, eating incredible food, and drinking wine.