Meet the Team

Founded in 2013, 2nd Story Marketing was created in order to share the good in our community through marketing. We do this by helping businesses create a marketing strategy that enables their business to flourish.  We are a dedicated, energized, and fun group of professionals who want to impact the community in a positive way. The passion and expertise that goes into each marketing plan will help make your business thrive.  We have a variety of services including: Comprehensive Marketing Management, Public and Media Relations, Digital Marketing, Event Planning and Management, Website Design and Development, and Visual Direction and Creative Services.

​Learn more about 2nd Story Marketing team members here!

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Courtney Dirschell :
Owner, Marketing Maven

I’m blessed to have a 2nd story; a story I never would have dreamed would be possible. Every day I wake up and I’m excited to help, to promote, to educate, to empower, and to tell the community what great work our clients are doing. It’s a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together. Do you still think your business is awesome? Do you still have the passion? I want to help write your story by developing effective public relations, growing your social media, and increasing your collaborative efforts in the community. There are so many small steps that business owners can take, but the first step is to contact 2nd Story Marketing. So slide on your flip flops, loafers, or tennis shoes and get ready for a great journey.

In 2015, Courtney was named the Branch County Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the Year.  In 2019, Hillary and Courtney were named Branch County Business Women of the Year by the Branch County United Way, and recognized at the Power of the Purse event.

Graduate of Central Michigan University
Major:  Integrative Public Relations
Minor: Recreation with a concentration in Event Planning

Megan Uetrecht:
Chaos Coordinator

I am happy to help 2nd Story Marketing as their Chaos/Account Coordinator handling researching industry trends, assisting with the production of materials and collateral for clients, and assisting with social media campaigns and engagement.

I am a graduate of Quincy High School in 2009 and of Trine University in 2014 and married to my husband, Jaron and together have a son and a  daughter.  In my spare time, I enjoy watching sports, spending time with family and friends and wine tasting!

Graduate of Trine University

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Don Marx :
​Design Guy

I am the one thing...that is not like the others...here at 2nd Story Marketing, and could not be happier in that role. I bring over four decades of design and marketing experience working with or under contract with Fortune 500 Companies, Non-Profit Organizations, Government Agencies, and Locally-Owned Hometown Businesses. I am at a point in life where I choose to work with folks I enjoy. I find every day here at 2nd Story Marketing a treat working for the ladies who drive this company. Retirements over its time again to do the work I have always loved. 

Graduate of Western Michigan University
Major: Visual Communications
Minor: Photography

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Payton Watson :
Pantone Princess

I am thrilled to be a part of the 2nd Story family. I call it a family because from day one I have felt like they all are exactly that, family! I am always excited to come to work and collaborate creatively with amazing people. 
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I am a graduate of Coldwater High School in 2016 and of Olivet College in 2021. I started my college career off with majoring in Sports Management, and after two years realized that my passion for art and being creative could offer me a career. I switched my major to Graphic Design and could not be happier with my decision! 

Graduate of Olivet College
Major: Graphic Design
Minor: Business Administration

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Katie Brown :
Social Strategist

I am so excited to be the Social Strategist at 2nd Story Marketing! It is fun to put some things I’ve learned in college to use in the real business world for clients. I am eager to help 2nd Story Marketing “share the good”!

​I am a graduate of Olivet College and in my free time I like to workout, watch rom-coms, and spend time with family and friends!

Graduate of Olivet College
Major: Business Administration
Minor: Sports/Recreation Management

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Dolly Llama:
​Mascot

A  fan of dressing up for the occasion and  holidays.  Always up for a party and celebration!