Sparkhouse

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the managing director of a consumer products company. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Sparkhouse?

We needed support producing a TV commercial with the goal of increasing orders and brand awareness. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

After an initial call with Sparkhouse, Torrey (CEO & Co-Founder) emailed me back and provided information. I provided more details about our project's requests, and the team produced a quotation I accepted. Sparkhouse then created a new version of the script I provided, incorporating their ideas. The team gave me a timeframe for the video's production and let me select the cast. 

Sparkhouse then started the video's production and shooting. The team sent me the first draft and ran several changes and versions of the video. When Sparkhouse completed the final draft, they created three different time-length versions of the commercial of 60, 30, and 15 seconds each, adding animation and computer-generated imagery (CGI) work. Sparkhouse also delivered various still shots from the video and offered marketing support after the video was completed, should we require it.

What is the team composition?
I mainly worked with Torrey and Max (Senior Account Manager), although 4–5 teammates were included in our emails.

How did you come to work with Sparkhouse?

I found Sparkhouse on Clutch. I emailed a couple of companies, and after speaking to a few, I felt comfortable moving forward with Sparkhouse.
How much have you invested with them?

We spent $15,000 on this project.

What is the status of this engagement?

We engaged with Sparkhouse between December 2023–February 2024.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

We published our commercial on our YouTube channel and haven't started marketing yet. We were surprised by the quality of the video and the price we paid. Sparkhouse went above and beyond the project's scope and was highly professional — I'd definitely recommend them.

How did Sparkhouse perform from a project management standpoint?

Sparkhouse delivered work on time and on budget. The team was very good at keeping me in the loop about their progress via email and Zoom. Sparkhouse used Frame.io to share the video's versions for us to comment on, and any suggestions or changes I asked for were delivered straight away. Sparkhouse's pricing was reasonable, with no add-ons or extra charges.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I was mostly impressed by Sparkhouse's project management. The team quickly got back to me and implemented changes without complaining or asking for more money. Sparkhouse ensured we were happy and delivered the best video. If I had a change idea and Sparkhouse thought it was good, they were keen to implement it. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can't think of anything for Sparkhouse to improve.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

I recommend engaging with Sparkhouse. We felt very pleased with the results.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Transit Safety Consultant of Operation Lifesaver

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Rail Safety Education

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Sparkhouse to accomplish?

• Produce a childrens Public Service Announcement for transit rail safety
• Produce a childrens coloring book for transit rail safety
• Produce an activity book for transit rail safety

SOLUTION

How did you find Sparkhouse?

Company had used previously

Why did you select Sparkhouse over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost
• Had great zoom meeting with them

How many teammates from Sparkhouse were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

They were tasked with producing a transit rail safety childrens Public Service Announcement video for the ages of 4-12. The video would be 1 minute with a 30 second version cut from the full length version. They were also charged with producing a 12 page coloring book and a 12 page activity book based on the PSA, focused on transit rail safety. They did not disappoint. They delivered a great 1 minute PSA and terriffic books.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The PSA was done in a very professional manner. The coloring books and the activity books came out terriffic. The covers produced are very inviting. Our users have been very excited about all the products.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

They are a pleasure to work with. They sent us drafts every step of the way. We have a difficult approval process with many different sets of eyes reviewing and making comments and Sparkhouse was able to make all the changes that were asked for. All the products were delivered based on the timeline discussed. Again quick responses to our idea changes.

What was your primary form of communication with Sparkhouse?

Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their ability to listen to your ideas and then put them to paper. I also found the staff to be very helpful and they asked questions when needed to keep the project moving.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Sparkhouse could have done differently?

A Job Well Done!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Creative Director of Starfish LLC

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Starfish is an independent full-service branding and creative communications firm that pioneered the discipline of Brand Experience.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Sparkhouse to accomplish?

• Product video/photography production
• Creative Direction

SOLUTION

How did you find Sparkhouse?

Online Search

Why did you select Sparkhouse over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

What was the size of Sparkhouse’s team?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Sparkhouse worked closely with our design team to bring our concept for a brand product launch to live across various channels. They helped us with casting talent, creating static and video assets, 3D renderings and animation.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Thanks to the help and partnership from Sparkhouse, the client was able to have a successful 360 degree product launch in 2022. Our work together included foundational assets for the brand. We produced videos that served as education for consumers about the brand and product, and compelled them to buy. Since launch, the brand has had steady sales and revenue growth, even winning an innovation award from Fast Company, and a strategy award for most creative brand launch.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Sparkhouse worked well to incorporate our feedback and make revisions in a timely manner. They met deadlines well and consistently clarified our needs as we worked through the process, ultimately delivering an on time, high quality product.

What was your primary form of communication with Sparkhouse?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email
• Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

The founder, Torrey, is involved in almost every project and has a very open relationship with his team. This makes for great communication throughout the entire project and allows for everyone to be on the same page. The ultimate collaboration between our team and Sparkhouse allowed for success in each step of the process which would not have been possible without the open nature of Torrey & his team.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Sparkhouse could have done differently?

In some instances, we looked for them to push our designs and visuals to the next level and enhance them with more exciting animations than we could think of ourselves. This sometimes took more direction and feedback than expected but ultimately we were able to communicate more effectively and get a better product because of it.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Finance Manager of Ridgerock Tools, Inc.

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We import and sell a variety of hand tools, power tools, and automotive tools

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Sparkhouse to accomplish?

• Create a Brand Video and some Product Videos

SOLUTION

How did you find Sparkhouse?

Referral

Why did you select Sparkhouse over others?

Referred to me

What was the size of Sparkhouse’s team?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Sparkhouse was tasked to create a brand video to showcase the brand as well as several of its key products. Key deliverables are a 30 sec video that meets Amazon's requirements for Streaming TV and 2 other videos highlighting two particular best selling products.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• An Attractive Video that attracts a high number of viewers to the brand
• A lift in sales and branded searches on Amazon.com
• More clicks and views into Brand store and detail pages of products and higher conversion rate on Amazon.com

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Sparkhouse team members were very responsive and accommodating. They took the time to listen to questions and concerns from all stakeholders in the project. They really try to understand what the company is trying to showcase and then build their video concept around that. They really went above and beyond to accommodate even some of the oddest requests for actors, wardrobes, props, etc.

What was your primary form of communication with Sparkhouse?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email
• Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

The most impressive thing is how much attention to detail is given to their craft. However, at the same time, they are open to feedback and suggestions from "non-professionals." They know how to balance drawing out the client's needs and delivering something that meets or exceeds expectations.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Sparkhouse could have done differently?

None. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Marketing Manager of Tutoring Club

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Academic assistance for students of all ages and skill levels.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Sparkhouse to accomplish?

• Three separate commercials covering a variety of our services
• Film all three in one day at two separate locations
• Create 15 and 30 second edits of each

SOLUTION

How did you find Sparkhouse?

Online Search

Why did you select Sparkhouse over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

What was the size of Sparkhouse’s team?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We hired Sparkhouse to take our ideas for and turn them into high-quality commercials for television, YouTube, and OTT. This included reworking our initial script, casting, filming/directing, and editing. Deliverables included 15 second edits, 30 second edits, plus versions of each with a lower third displaying our website.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Focus group approval
• YouTube view rates

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

I was very impressed with the management of the project from top to bottom. Their team understood the deadlines we had, and worked diligently to meet our goals. Their communication was thorough, responsive, and professional. When we made requests, they went the extra mile to accommodate us and they were great about letting us know how long things would take.

What was your primary form of communication with Sparkhouse?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email
• Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

This is our second time working with Sparkhouse, and we are as impressed now as we were the first time. I think it's common to find a company that's either creative, or excellent communicators, or reasonably priced, but it's very uncommon to find a company that excels in all areas. Their team went the extra mile to truly understand our brand and our message, and elevate it.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Sparkhouse could have done differently?

We have zero complaints. We're looking forward to working with Sparkhouse again in the future.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO of Wildfire Media

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Digital marketing for attorneys.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Sparkhouse to accomplish?

• Create high quality videos for out client

SOLUTION

How did you find Sparkhouse?

Online Search

Why did you select Sparkhouse over others?

• Pricing first our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost

What was the size of Sparkhouse’s team?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Sparkhouse took our concept and built on it enthusiastically, creating a script and ultimately shooting and editing our video. This was the third time we have worked with Sparkhouse and are consistently blown away by their professionalism and creativity. They have always delivered a polished video tailored to our needs and always go above and beyond the initial scope to make sure we are happy with the final product.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Quality of final product
• Timeliness

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Everything Sparkhouse promises is delivered well and on time. When we had to change things at the last minute or make updates due to our error they always accommodated us.

What was your primary form of communication with Sparkhouse?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email
• Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They are so easy to get work with in terms of figuring out what our needs are and how to execute them perfectly and on time. They are incredibly flexible and talented.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Sparkhouse could have done differently?

None that we saw.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Marketing of Vortex Doors

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

A Leading Provider of Commercial-Industrial Door Repair & Replacement Services - Serving a Diverse Range of Market Segments

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Sparkhouse to accomplish?

• Create an updated Field Marketing Training Video

SOLUTION

How did you find Sparkhouse?

Online Search

Why did you select Sparkhouse over others?

High ratings, Close to my geographic location, Pricing first our budget, Great culture fit, Good value for cost

What was the size of Sparkhouse’s team?

6-10 Employees

What was your primary form of communication with Sparkhouse?

Virtual Meeting

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Sparkhouse conducted an internal company audit to identify our needs and use cases for the new video, and to understand our expectations. They assisted our team with scriptwriting and storyboarding, pulling inspiration from provided videos and best practices.

They casted our main actor for the video and visited our corporate office to work through the best locations to film each segment. Sparkhouse arrived early on site to setup their equipment and prepare our actors for the day.

They filmed, directed, and edited our video to meet our needs, and provided multiple rounds of revisions until we were satisfied.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Overall satisfaction from upper managers who have a long history with Vortex and who will be directly implementing this program.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Sparkhouse delivered everything on time and as promised. They responded very quickly to our needs and made sure we were satisfied in every way possible.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their level of professionalism was very impressive as well as the quality of work provided.

Are there any areas for improvement or something {provider_name} could have done differently?

None. They should keep on doing things exactly the way they are now.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the content marketer at Revive. We specialize in helping agents bring turnkey homes to market through pre-sale renovations.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

We were the title sponsor at a large conference and we needed a 30-second brand commercial to present. We wanted to use this video for the conference and create a longer version to use across other marketing channels.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We reached out to multiple video production companies and the quotes ranged around the same. However, we decided to go with Sparkhouse due to their ability for quick turnaround time and the quality of their work.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

We started off with an in-person meeting. Torrey connected with Revive's leadership team and the relationship built from there. Soon, our teams jumped on weekly collab calls together. We received weekly updates and we were able to quickly leave notes on the edited versions through Frame.io.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Revive worked with a handful of the Sparkhouse team, including: Torrey, Max, Camille, Jay, Keaton, and Sruthi.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We presented the commercial at the big conference and it was a hit. Agents approached us saying they loved the humor. We feel like it was a great way to help agents remember our name, especially the ones that hadn't heard of us before.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

All deliverables were presented when expected. The weekly updates helped us all stay on track.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Once the contract was signed we got started immediately and it was an overall easy process. The team was very professional.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Perhaps establishing one main point of contact. Sometimes it felt like we weren't sure who to reach out to about specific asks.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Prairie IT is a consumer electronics gadgets company. I am the Director of Media Buying, responsible for driving shopping traffic to the products we own across digital marketing platforms.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

Amazon approached us to beta a new ad slot for streaming TV functionalities. We needed something to appeal to TV audiences - very different from the user-generated type content we are used to in paid social media campaigns. The video also had to incorporate a QR code effectively for the type of ad Amazon gave us, driving traffic from a TV ad to our Amazon store.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Amazon actually partnered us up with Sparkhouse, recommending their services to us. Because we had never created a tv ad before, we relied on the creative team at Amazon to make the right recommendation, their opinion carrying a lot of weight with us.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

As soon as Max over at Sparkhouse was on the project, we moved very quickly. They gave us a creative prompt, had an intro call, ushered us through scripting (only needed one round of revisions before they got it perfectly), and then took care of everything else. We were pleased with their choices of models, set designs, voiceover talent, and overall look.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Max was great to work with and the feedback process was painless and quick - never needing much to be altered to begin with.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We're into the beginning stages of testing the project, but are pleased with the beginning metrics we're seeing for the type of ad that it is.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

They are responsive, true to their timelines, and quick to turn around deliverables.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

We didn't really need to change much after they created a commercial for us. They listened and followed through.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Not really

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Comscore Movies is a Movie Market Research division of Comscore. I am the Senior Director of Product Management & Client Insights

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

We needed a product and brand video for our Movies Division to help roll out our new B to B online platform.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I did research on companies that provide Product and Corporate Brand videos. I narrowed it down to five companies and conducted phone interviews/Zooms with all of them. I really loved SparkHouse's sample videos. They had so many options and styles and they seems to really understand what we needed.

Describe the scope of their work in detail, including any steps and the final deliverables.

They held several zoom meeting with me and then with my team to understand what our end goal was. I provided them with a rough outline and they worked with me to hone that. They were very collaborative and showed us what they were working on every step of the way so that me and my team could make changes and or suggestions.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

I worked primarily with an Account Manager - who relayed everything to the Sparkhouse team of animators and the project director. I found this process worked for me.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

This video has already been shown at some major movie industry conferences. We've received very good feedback and it has accomplished what we set out to do -- remind clients of the scope what we offer and introduce our new product.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

I received weekly updates. Their collaboration tools were very easy to use. Any questions were answered right away.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They seemed genuinely excited to work on the project. Their enthusiasm and ideas were really appreciated. I found them very easy to work with.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

None that I can think of