2021 was to be the year that we all could relax and breathe after all the chaos of 2020. Hmm … Even with the transition back to some level of normalcy (I’m really unsure what the word means any more), the state of the world is still upended. Perhaps this is our new normal, and we’ll see what 2022 holds! Amidst all the noise in the world, it just seems easier to focus on what is within reach, what we can influence, and where we can find grace.

As I reflect on our business in 2021, my mind is filled with words that describe our year.

• GRATITUDE – This is one of my favorite words, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to work with such a gifted team. The old adage of hiring people smarter than you really does work! Each team member is the perfect piece of the Wendt puzzle.
• GROWTH – We are growing! This year we added four folks to the Wendt family. Gwen Fleming, Content Creator, Victor Fulcher, UX/UI Designer, Sasha Rife, Digital Marketing Specialist, and we are so excited to welcome back Meghan Shaulis, Graphic and Digital Designer, to her second tour of duty.
• GRIT – Thinking about our team and how we manage the day-to-day is really mind blowing! We’re tackling big projects and campaigns with joyous anticipation. Working diligently to build messaging that is strategic, goal centric, and that provides success for our clients doesn’t always come easy, yet when we focus on the joy of our work, amazing things happen. We continue to work hard to build our business with client partners that share our vision of how to create success. And we honor the powerful legacy of a 92-year-old company. We are finding the balance of family and work (even when it’s hard) – being present for each other and our families requires energy, patience, and a big heart filled with love. And staying healthy is more of a priority than ever before. Gone are the days of “working through a cold or flu.” We need to take care of ourselves so our bodies can carry us forward. And lastly, and most importantly, we strive to find peacefulness whenever we can. Because, with peace comes wisdom.
• FUN – What’s a good office culture without a boatload of fun! Nothing brings more energy to an environment than laughter. This year we had the good fortune to carve out a few days to travel to Eureka, Montana, for a Wendt gathering to rest, be in each other’s good company, enjoy the beautiful outdoors, and laugh. Fun comes in so many forms at Wendt from a taco bar so we can share lunch during a big workday, to the epic Halloween party that Wendt has become known for. Any excuse to wedge fun into our day is welcomed wholeheartedly.
• CELEBRATION – Celebration at Wendt comes in so many forms. Friday morning shout outs are our way of recognizing our fellow teammates who have gone the extra mile, provided a helping hand, or simply a listening ear. And we don’t limit shout outs to only Wendt activities, often we’re celebrating the success stories of our close family and friends. This simple act keeps us close as we hold each other up in gratitude and joy!

Let’s jump into the new year with hope and grace and carry with us the lingering memories of all the good things we enjoyed from 2021!