Member Spotlight: PS Creative

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights.

From podcast production and commercial creation to digital marketing and live events, there isn’t much PS Creative doesn’t tackle. At the helm of the full-service creative agency? Jessica Leila Adnani, who founded PS Creative fresh out of college. Twelve wildly successful years later, Adnani’s PS Creative is at the top of the industry with an ever-growing list of offerings and an impressive roster of national clientele.

Recently, Adnani made time in her busy schedule to chat with us, graciously and enthusiastically opening up about the digital creative powerhouse she’s built, how she’s giving back, and what’s new on the horizon. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Before we dive in, we just want to extend a huge congratulations on 12 years in business as of January 2023.
Jessica Leila Adnani:  Thank you! I could not be more proud of what my team and I have built and am looking forward to many more incredible milestones in the future! We’ve also been able to expand our offices into Dallas, TX over the past two years which is a fantastic achievement of ours.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: That’s incredible! And we’ll chat about that expansion. But, first, let’s start at the beginning of your professional journey. What inspired you to take the entrepreneurial leap?
Jessica Leila Adnani: In 2011, I graduated from Miami University with a degree in political science and Middle Eastern studies with plans to work in the U.S. State Department. They were on a hiring freeze, so instead of pursuing my academic interests, I decided that I would start a business based on my passions - and that’s how PS Creative was born!  

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: That’s quite the trajectory change. How were you sure that it was right for you?
Jessica Leila Adnani: While in college, I interned in finance and quickly realized that the 9:00 to 5:00 lifestyle was not what I wanted. Rather, I wanted to be the designer of my own career. My dad was also a huge inspiration of mine. He was a serial entrepreneur, and inspired my goal of owning my own business from a young age. I got lucky to have two parents whose unwavering support encouraged me to believe that the sky really is the limit.

Photographed by Marion Rhoades Photography.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: That mindset is clear in the structure and development of PS Creations. For those unfamiliar with PS Creative, can you speak to what your agency offers?
Jessica Leila Adnani: We are a creative agency that specializes in podcast production, commercial video, digital marketing and incredible live events. We work with clientele across the country from solopreneurs to fortune 500. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What, in your opinion, sets PS Creative apart from other digital and creative agencies?
Jessica Leila Adnani: We treat our clients like the individuals they are. You’ll never find a pre-set package, hence the PS in our name which stands for, “personalized solutions.” Instead, we create customized packages tailored to the goals of our clients. We always want to be the best fit for them and their unique needs.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: How do you achieve such a personalized experience?
Jessica Leila Adnani: The most rewarding part of our work is interacting with clients. It motivates us and inspires our company pillars — innovation, education, expectations, and communication — which, in turn, inspires how we operate. For example, we send weekly emails featuring client milestones and highlights, which has been a fun way of keeping our clients apprised of their success and growth, whether it’s in their business, podcast, or event.

Photographed by Marion Rhoades Photography.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: You mentioned podcasts, which we know are a very unique aspect of PS Creative. Can you tell us more?
Jessica Leila Adnani: Our podcast offering is unlike any other studio’s. We handle every aspect of a podcast — from booking the guests, recording, editing, publishing, and creating promotional content — so that our clients, who are mostly executives can come in, record, and leave knowing all of the minute details will be handled. It creates a really seamless, easy experience that allows our clients to focus on what they do best, but still take advantage of the valuable platform that is podcasting.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: With the recent launch of your own podcast, it’s clear you’re passionate about the power of podcasts. What does your podcast cover?
Jessica Leila Adnani: So I’ve actually had a few in the past, but this one I am the most excited about – The Self Optimization Experiment. Every two weeks for fifty weeks I will embark on a new challenge to create a more optimized operating system for my life. And I am taking others on the journey with me. Anyone can join in on a challenge at any point!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Well you’re clearly doing something right - it’s already the top podcast in Arizona!
Jessica Leila Adnani: I’m just so grateful to have a community of amazing listeners who have come on this journey with me and who help hold me accountable every step of the way.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What advice would you give to anyone interested in starting their own podcast?
Jessica Leila Adnani: If you are a thought leader or aspire to be, starting a podcast is the fastest way to grow your business, your audience, and your influence. This market is expanding like wildfire and as we know, early adopters always win. So if you’ve been thinking about it, come in and let’s discuss because now is the time.

Photographed by Marion Rhoades Photography.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Obviously, you produce your podcast in-house. What else can clients expect from PS Creative? Any new additions to your already-impressive list of offerings?
Jessica Leila Adnani: Yes! We’ve added a fun new addition for our events services - a 360 photo booth that we rent out across the valley to capture fun content for social media. It’s an excellent way of creating reach for events online because people can’t wait to share their videos. We also released new monthly social media content creation packages to give people an easy way to stay consistent with their posting. Finally and most importantly — we just moved into a brand new office and studio! Our new space is very advanced and modern. It has all new video and audio equipment and photography backdrops. And we have stunning, unobstructed views of Camelback Mountain, just as an added perk! 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: How exciting! We know that, in the past two years, you’ve also expanded and updated your philanthropy-centric offerings. Can you speak to that?
Jessica Leila Adnani: Yes! In 2020, we created a new segment of our nonprofit business called Philanthropy United. We love working with nonprofits and felt like it deserved its own brand. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: As we understand it, Philanthropy United has been wildly successful. Are there any projects that stand out?
Jessica Leila Adnani: One of my current favorite client events is Breathe 2 Believe from Vanessa Ramirez who raises funds in honor of her dad’s fight against lung cancer. Another of my favorites is Drive Fore A Cure, a new annual fundraiser from our client Chris Hyslop that benefits the Movember Foundation and the fight against prostate cancer.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What local organizations are you personally involved with?
Jessica Leila Adnani: I am a Big Sister via Big Brothers, Big Sisters. My little, Monica, and I are super close and I love being her mentor. I also donate my time and talents to Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels every year. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: It’s clear you practice what you preach. How do you stay inspired?
Jessica Leila Adnani: Through travel. I travel a lot and experiencing new things, seeing how others live, is a constant inspiration to me to keep innovating. I also love listening to business and health podcasts – they are always expanding my mind.

Photographed by Marion Rhoades Photography.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: And when you’re not traveling, any favorite local spots?
Jessica Leila Adnani: Of course! My go-to restaurants are Steak 44 and Etta and for drinks, I love CRUjiente Tacos - I highly recommend the spicy margarita. For home goods, decor, and gifts, urbAna is my favorite. And as for staying fit, I always get the best workout at Onyx Boxing.

PS Creative are experts in designing bespoke services within the digital landscape for businesses and clients of any scale to optimize and meet their specialized goals. Explore their many innovative digital offerings and how Jessica and her team can expand your business on their website! Additional questions? Reach out via direct message on Instagram or email at leila@personalizedsolu.com. 

Spring Wedding Fashion: Outfitting Your Attendants

Originally published by THE SCOUT GUIDE on February 6, 2023.

As winter draws to a close, wedding bells herald a budding wedding season. While the attire of the bride and groom are tantamount, outfitting the wedding party is also important. We checked in with our editors across the country for their favorite picks for bridesmaids and groomsmen—whether it’s a formal affair or beachside gathering. From elegant gowns and trousers to pocket squares and pendants, this stylish and on-trend selection will satisfy even the most persnickety attendant. To find a scouted boutique near you, browse The Scout Guide Directory.

ALC Ombré Satin Pleated Dress
Available for purchase online from Amy Atelier in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Photographer Spotlight: Brian Hudson Productions

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Contributor Spotlights.

As we launch into photoshoot season, we are thrilled to share the newest additions to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale creative team, Brian Hudson of Brian Hudson Productions.

Inspired to pursue a photography and videography from a young age, Brian Hudson has had a prolific career. Sports fans will recognize his work with NASCAR, NBA, College Basketball, Winter & Summer X Games, The Indy 500, and various other worldwide broadcasts. His eye for movement and storytelling has captured the attention of global broadcasting magnets — think ESPN, ABC, NBC, NBC Sports and the like — and it’s an honor to have him turn his lens on local stars.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let’s start at the beginning. What inspired you to become a photographer? 
Brian Hudson: Growing up in Michigan, I fell in love with snow skiing and photography around the same time. The local ski hill would play Warren Miller ski movies in their lodge, and I was so inspired by how he found a way to combine the two things I loved most — skiing and photography — to make a career. I wanted to be him! I was fortunate to meet Warren before he passed and and thank him for inspiring myself and others to follow our passion. I will forever be grateful! 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: The Valley is a long way away from Michigan — not to mention snow! What drew you to Phoenix & Scottsdale and, in turn, photographing for The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale?
Brian Hudson: For the majority of my photography career, I’ve had to travel all over the country. Working with TSG gives me the chance to work locally with people in the community, which is a wonderful opportunity. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Well, we’re thrilled to have you on board for Volume 3. What, in your own words, defines you as a photographer?
Brian Hudson: As a photographer, my specialities run the gamut: from portraiture and landscapes, sports and time-lapse, to aerial photography and videography. But, no matter what I’m capturing, I prioritize an attention to detail and am driven to capture the perfect image, rather than perfecting the image in photoshop. It’s typically easier to “fix” a detail during the shoot than it is to photoshop later.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: And how would you define your style?
Brian Hudson: I love capturing images that tell a story and inspire the viewer to think about how an image was captured. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: As an artist, what is it like to inspire a viewer to think about the story behind your images?
Brian Hudson: Knowing what it took to create a certain image and seeing it through from the initial idea to the final edit, I feel a sense of accomplishment and pride.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Speaking of a sense of pride, what are your biggest accomplishments thus far? 
Brian Hudson: First and foremost, my son! I’ve also been fortunate to photograph some of the biggest sporting events in the world and had the opportunity to work with some incredible people. In 2022, I won a Sports Emmy Award for my work on the Superbowl LVI Pre Game Show with NBC Sports. 

We are thrilled to have Brian Hudson on board for The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale Volume 3. He’s a wonderful talent that will empower us to do what we do best: showcase and celebrate the stories of the Valley’s business owners. To learn more about Brian and working with Brian Hudson Productions on your next photographic project, reach out here. And don’t forget to tell him Scout sent you!

Photographer Spotlight: Gothgloss Photography

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our hyperlocal story-telling mission with Contributor Spotlights.

In preparing to produce a new guide, we scout the Valley for the best creative talent to help us bring our vision — and the stories of our members — to life. And we’re thrilled to welcome photographer, Stephanie Neiheisel of Glothgloss, to the creative team of The Scout Guide Volume 3.

After years working on every aspect of a shoot (more on that later), Stephanie stepped behind the lens. And it’s from this new perspective that she lends her creativity to brands, offering editorial imagery with an edge that pushes boundaries and expectations of brand photography. Her style tells a story, which, here at The Scout Guide, we’re all about.

To introduce you to the talent behind the stunning imagery you’ll see in Volume 3, we took time out of our busy shoot schedules to chat about how she got behind the lens and what keeps her inspired.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Stephanie, we are so thrilled to have you on board to shoot Volume 3 of The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale. Let’s start from the beginning, how did you get into photography?
Stephanie Neiheisel: I have always loved photography and I always joke that I wish it had chosen me sooner. I took photography classes all three years of high school and a semester of college and continued to dabble throughout my early 20s. As a makeup artist and agency owner I learned how to take all of my own images and short videos. Slowly over time, I found myself picking up the camera more often than makeup brushes. The transition was effortless.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let’s talk about that time before you put down the brushes and picked up a camera. How has that shaped your photographic career?
Stephanie Neiheisel: As a successful makeup artist for over 10 years and an agent for 4, I developed an acute awareness that everything from a commercial set to a large bridal party is essentially a moving piece of art. Honing my skills as a makeup artist, educator, and then agency owner allowed me to build a robust community of hair and makeup artists, photographers, curators, and set designers which in turn left me with an incredible drive to move behind a camera. There isn’t a single aspect of a set I haven’t worked on before, so I can relate to my clients and the crew which, in my experience, makes for a fun and comfortable environment. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: With such prolific experience what, in your opinion, makes for a great photoshoot?
Stephanie Neiheisel: A collaborative team. Sometimes things don’t go as planned, but a fluid, kind team will always achieve a beautiful result.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let’s talk specifics, what kind of photography do you specialize in?
Stephanie Neiheisel: Beauty, brand, product, and commercial.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Given your background, that seems a natural choice. It’s one of the many reasons we were so eager to work with you. Another being your signature style. How would you describe your photographic style?
Stephanie Neiheisel: Moody, luxe, clean, and editorial. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What inspires you and your style?
Stephanie Neiheisel: Cheryl Strand’s quote, “put yourself in the way of beauty” helps me express this in the best way. I’m drawn to beautiful experiences, beautiful environments, and beautiful stories. I find beauty in the smallest of things. I walk around with “photo lens eyeballs.” I truly want to feel the beauty in everything. This feeling became heightened when I became a mother.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: How do you nurture this mentality?
Stephanie Neiheisel: Architecture, travel, and experience new places and meeting new people. Travel always opens my eyes new ideas.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Agreed, travel always broadens our horizons. But let’s bring things back home… What do you love about photographing here in the Valley?
Stephanie Neiheisel: Arizona is full of incredible talent. And it’s an honor to meet new people who trust me to capture their talent and vision.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What aspect of your work as a photographer do you find most fulfilling?
Stephanie Neiheisel: Helping brands tell their stories through beautiful visuals.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What are your biggest accomplishments thus far?
Stephanie Neiheisel: Being a momma. My daughter is my greatest inspiration, blessing, and accomplishment.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: We’ve saved our favorite question for last… When you’re not behind the lens, where can we find you around town?
Stephanie Neiheisel: Ooooh I love this question. Sottise is one of my go-to restaurants. Monsoon Market for yummy natural wines and gifts. Local Nomad is my go-to spot for specialty items and where I buy all my gifts for events. Berdenas because they make a great London Fog (for us non-coffee drinkers). SkinFit with Jenna for my facials (she is magic). Slain Studios with Oanh for my manicures. Nina K Beauty with Hope for my Brows. Buck & Rider because the seafood is amazing and they have the best happy hour. 

We are thrilled to have Stephanie Neiheisel on our creative team for The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale Volume 3. To learn more about Stephanie and inquire about working with Gothgloss on your brand photography head here. Don’t forget to tell her Scout sent you!

The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Why are you excited to be a new member of the TSG team?  

Stephanie Neiheisel: I love the team so much and how enthusiastic they are about supporting the local community here in Phoenix. 

Member Spotlight: Bronze Buddha Glow

Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights.

Organic, paraben-free, never tested on animals, and always gorgeous, Bronze Buddha Glow is our go-to airbrush tanning experience. Owned by Phoenix-bred Sonya MacDonald, Bronze Buddha Glow is an ultra-local, ultra-healthy resource for achieving the vibrance (and confidence) of a tan, sans harmful, damaging rays.

Recently, Sonya celebrated five years of ownership, a testament to Sonya’s acumen as an entrepreneur and Bronze Buddha Glow’s stunning glow. In celebration — and anticipation of warmer days ahead — we chatted with Sonya about entrepreneurship and, well, a bronze glow.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Before diving into specifics of one of the Valley’s favorite spray tans, tell us: what were you doing pre-Bronze Buddha Glow?
Sonya MacDonald: Before taking the entrepreneurial leap, I worked in the optical industry for 25 years. First within a private practice, then as sales/business development consultant and implementation coach with a business management consulting firm. When I left the industry, I became a Yoga teacher, then had the opportunity to purchase Bronze Buddha Glow from my friend.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What inspired you to take the entrepreneurial leap?
Sonya MacDonald: After teaching yoga, I had the opportunity to purchase Bronze Buddha Glow from a longtime friend who had founded the business. She was considering a different career path, and it was perfect timing for me. Everything happens for a reason!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: More specifically, what inspired you to take the entrepreneurial leap with Bronze Buddha Glow?
Sonya MacDonald: I’m passionate about living a holistic lifestyle and a spray tan is the safest and healthiest option for achieving a tan. I love empowering my clients to feel healthier and happier!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What’s the best part of your work?
Sonya MacDonald: Not only do I get to help people make healthier choices through sunless tanning. Even better, it’s basically my job to make them feel happy and good all day, every day!

 
 

“IT’S BASICALLY MY JOB TO MAKE PEOPLE FEEL GOOD ALL DAY, EVERYDAY!”

 
 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let’s talk about the glow… Can you walk us through a spray tan appointment, including what clients can expect?
Sonya MacDonald: Absolutely! When a client arrives, our first order of business is discussing what brings them in: do they have an event? A vacation? This helps us hone in on the perfect shade for their occasion and skin tone. Once we’ve determined the shade, we start applying. The application process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, so it’s very easy and very quick.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What kind of glow can clients expect?
Sonya MacDonald: All Bronze Buddha Glow Specialists are hand-picked and certified in airbrush tanning and custom color-blending by LA’s very own “Tanning Guru” and Sunset Tan’s reality star, Heather Shaw. She trained us on a specific technique that’s sought after by Hollywood Stars for a natural, red-carpet-ready, sexy-bronzed glow.

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: How do you achieve such a uniquely stunning bronze?
Sonya MacDonald: At Bronze Buddha Glow, we use a customized application technique for that follows the body’s curves. Our technique also includes contouring and highlighting of the body’s best assets. Our attention to the details is something I’m passionate about and proud of. 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What tips do you have for extending a tan?
Sonya MacDonald: At Bronze Buddha Glow, we always review aftercare with our clients, so they understand how to care for their tan, preserve the glow, and achieve even, smooth fading. The most important thing, however, is to keep skin moisturized!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: What do you recommend clients wear to a spray tan appointment?
Sonya MacDonald: Our After Glow Dress, of course! It’s functional, fashionable, and will take you from a glow to errands, dinner, or drinks. It also protects your spray tan — and your car!

 
 

“OUR ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS IS SOMETHING I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT AND PROUD OF.”

 
 

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let’s switch gears and talk Phoenix… What’s the best thing about being an entrepreneur in the Valley?
Sonya MacDonald: I’m a proud Phoenician, born and raised in Phoenix. I’m a firm believer in supporting local! We have amazing restaurants and small businesses and you can’t beat our beautiful weather for most of the year.  

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: Can you share your local favorites?
Sonya MacDonald: Absolutely! My go-to restaurants are Richardson’s (order the Prickly Pear Margarita!) and Buck & Rider (order a dirty martini!). For shopping, Mae & Marie, Muse Apparel, Vida Moulin, Alixandra Collections, Leela Market, and The Lifestyled Co always top my list. For gifting, I always tap fellow Volume 2 Member, urbAna. As for activities, I love a day trip to Sedona, practicing yoga, or playing with my pups. And, come Scottsdale Culinary Festival or Tempe Festival of the Arts, you can find me there! I also never turn down a ticket to any live sports game!

TSG Phoenix & Scottsdale: In talking about our community, we’d be remiss not to mention your charitable giving. We understand that you donate 5% of your monthly profits to local charities. What local non-profits are near and dear to your heart?
Sonya MacDonald: Charities and organizations that cater to children, like Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Child Crisis Nursery, have always been close to my heart. Since purchasing Bronze Buddha Glow, my incredibly charitable clients have introduced me to Homeward Bound and PANDA, which are also deeply important to our community.

Bronze Buddha Glow offers one of the best glows in the Valley. Supernatural, super safe, it’s a fabulous alternative to tanning your dermatologist will approve. To schedule an appointment, head to www.bronzebuddhaglow.com. Additional questions? Feel free to text Sonya at her business number (602)456-1637.

Don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you and ask about the Scouted promotional offers.

Bronze Buddha Glow Locations:

CAMELBACK

3240 E. Camelback Rd. Suite 10 Phoenix, AZ 85018


CACTUS

12450 N. 32nd St. Suite 3 Phoenix, AZ 85032