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We’re an honest, passionate team of strategic + creative storytellers.

Hearth Agency is a full-service marketing + advertising agency specializing in real estate. We believe in the importance of belonging. It’s more than just finding your place. It’s research. It’s placemaking. Friend-making. Teambuilding. Everyone deserves the opportunity to find their tribe, and our ideal blend of experience and expertise will help make that happen. At Hearth, our clients work directly with the co-founders on every project to bring brands to life.

Our story begins in 2006 when Ellen and Ari met, working together at a 40-year old advertising institution, specializing in marketing real estate. A mutual love of the 80s and placemaking lead to an unbeatable partnership. Flash forward to 2019—after 13+ years of working side by side, it was time for Ellen and Ari to start their entrepreneurial adventure.

We started Hearth Agency together, to continue working with—and on—all the things we

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Ellen Wong

Co-Founder, President
Chief Executive Officer
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Ellen found a launchpad for her passion for marketing while attending the prestigious New York University. After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Media and Communications, Ellen realized she was destined to live in perfect weather year round and returned to her San Diego roots. She soon joined an ad agency, where she spent the next 14 years working her way up to Account Services Director. Ellen led the account team to deliver unrivaled, proven strategy and highly engaging campaigns to clients, including five of the 50 master-planned communities that were on the RCLCO Real Estate Advisors list of top-selling communities

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Ari Wells

Co-Founder, Vice President
Chief Creative Officer
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Ardent artist at heart, Ari is constantly creating. Growing up with a strong family of teachers and artists, she was always encouraged in her creative pursuits. From wallpapering her entire bedroom with Got Milk and Absolut campaigns, to making logos for every extracurricular club in high school—all signs pointed her to a career in design. She thrived as an art major at SDSU, where she embraced her passion to tell stories via thoughtful typography and tantalizing visuals. In 2006, she accepted a position as Graphic Designer with an ad agency. 10 years later, she was leading her department as Creative Director on all agency accounts. Her smart, exuberant aesthetic continues to drive captivating, successful campaigns for clients across North America.

Trusted collaborators

Every professional we collaborate with is not only an expert, but they specialize in the business of building community. Get to know our brilliant friends!

  • Why ‘hearth’?
    For centuries, the hearth was the central foundation of a home—often the most important feature. Today, the hearth is a warm, welcoming place to gather. A huge piece of what we do—and a huge part of where we’re going—hearth speaks to community.
  • When were you established?
    We opened our doors on November 4, 2019—but we've been partners in business for 15 years!
  • Where are your offices?
    We work in a 100% virtual office environment. Being fully remote lets us work practically anywhere. In today's world, we believe this is the best way to stay nimble and service our clients both effectively and efficiently. Plus, it brings our clients' costs down, which no one seems to be complaining about ;)
  • What kind of work do you do?
    We bring people and places together. We tell stories. We ask questions. We dig deep. We must know all sides of the story to best tell yours. We create, cultivate, and nurture your brand, all the while ensuring that the brand itself and your audience truly align. Only then will your brand take on a living, breathing life of its own. It becomes an experience—a community. Are you a residential builder or developer? We can build out your brand and marketing program to ensure your community’s success. Are you a commercial developer or retail owner? We'll make sure you're a leader in your market. We're here for you for everything from websites to social media programming to event coordinating and beyond. Get the full scoop on our services page to see how we can help you!
  • How can I contact you?
    Need to get a hold of us? Give us a ring at +1 (858) 381-0845 or send us an email at hello@hearthagency.com and one of our founders will answer. (You can also take a leisurely scroll to the bottom of the page and contact us via the form you find there.) If you're in San Diego and want to meet face-to-face, let us take you to coffee—our treat!
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