Building a Brand That Resonates: Top Marketing Tips from Marisa Switzer of Brands by RISE

Building a Brand That Resonates

Launching a fashion brand takes more than just a great product today’s market demands strategy, storytelling, and staying power. In a recent Fashion Founder Collective Lunch & Learn, we sat down with Marisa Switzer, founder of creative agency Brands by RISE, to discuss the top marketing strategies that help emerging brands stand out, scale up, and stay connected to their audience.

Marisa’s background blends corporate beauty and fashion experience with a love for storytelling. Through her agency, she helps brands position themselves meaningfully in the market combining design, web, and content strategy for maximum impact. Here's what we learned from her session.

1. Lead with Story Not Just Product

Marisa’s first rule of thumb? “Your positioning is more valuable than your product.” Anyone can launch a product, but what sets a successful brand apart is the why behind it. Founders who weave storytelling into everything from packaging to social media create emotional resonance that outlasts trends. Whether it’s highlighting your inspiration, your mission, or the journey behind your launch, storytelling builds trust and connection.

2. Embrace Founder-Forward Marketing

You don’t have to love the spotlight, but bringing your audience behind the scenes pays off. Founder-forward content like sharing your design process, product sourcing, or even packing your first orders helps build community and excitement pre-launch. “People want to feel like they’re part of something as it’s being built,” Marisa said. “It gives them a sense of belonging and ownership.”

3. Create Brand Experiences, Not Just Products

From your website to your packaging to your email newsletter, every customer touchpoint should feel cohesive and intentional. Marisa encourages founders to think about their brand experience holistically. “Build a brand people can step into. That’s what sparks loyalty.” In-person activations, sampling events, or even influencer partnerships can reinforce this immersive feeling.

4. Start Small and Strategic

You don’t need to be on every platform. Choose two marketing channels that align with your audience’s habits—maybe that’s Instagram and Pinterest, or email and in-person events and double down. With a limited budget, prioritize organic strategies: start a blog, share content that answers your customers’ questions, and tap into PR opportunities like podcasts or press lists.

5. Repurpose Everything

Marisa is a big believer in working smarter. “Start with long-form content like a blog or email and slice it into Instagram captions, Pinterest graphics, and more.” Not only does this save time, but it ensures brand consistency across every platform.

6. Don’t Skip the Research

Before launching, get to know your audience. Use competitive research, talk to real customers, and build a focus group even informally through DMs or surveys. Marisa also recommends using tools like Google Analytics or heatmaps to see how visitors are interacting with your website, so you can refine your messaging and user experience based on real behavior.

7. Measure What Matters

Not all metrics are created equal. Instead of chasing likes, focus on acquisition (how people find you), engagement (how they interact), and conversions (whether they buy or subscribe). “Email marketing is still one of the most powerful tools,” Marisa reminded us. “And it’s the only channel you truly own.”

8. Build Brand Trust Through Consistency

Brand trust isn’t about perfection it’s about consistency and transparency. Whether you’re navigating limited size ranges or adjusting your supply chain, Marisa suggests being honest with your customers. “Audiences appreciate when founders show up authentically and admit when things don’t go as planned.”

Final Takeaway

Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you stay focused on your story, your strengths, and your strategy. Choose platforms that make sense for you, commit to showing up, and center your customer at every step of the journey.

To learn more about Marisa and her work, visit brandsbyrise.com or follow @brandsbyrise on Instagram.

Ready to trust your gut and take your next step?

Let us help you turn your vision into a market-ready product. Book a consultation with AJG Fashion Consulting and learn how our apparel development services can support your fashion journey.

Explore more stories like Marisa’s on our Fashion Founder Collective and follow us on Instagram @ajg_fashionconsulting for weekly insights, case studies, and founder spotlights.

Watch the Full Interview

Fashion Founder Collective is more than just another resource. It’s a space where you can connect with industry experts, gain valuable insights, and meet other business owners who truly get what you’re going through. To access these live events, along with all of the other amazing benefits of AJG’s online community, join Fashion Founder Collective today!

Let’s Build Your Brand Together

To learn more about AJG Fashion Consulting and how we have helped brands launch and grow, visit www.ajgfashionconsulting.com. Looking for more details on how we can help? Book some time with us for a free 30-minute consultation.