Why Did I Start CSJ Marketing? – My Journey to Then to Now
I launched CSJ Marketing to offer something different - honest, local marketing with a personal touch.
I didn’t set out to start my own business straight away. After uni, I thought I’d build up experience the usual way: maybe go full-time at an agency or in-house somewhere. But things took a different shape. While working in hospitality, I started picking up freelance marketing projects. I found that I enjoyed the directness of it, working closely with small businesses, learning fast, and being trusted to get on with it.
I studied Marketing at the University of Liverpool, where I focused on things like consumer behaviour and how strategy influences the choices businesses make. That gave me a strong foundation, but most of what’s shaped how I work came from doing the job itself. After uni, I started in social media management with The Drum Inn, in Cockington where I developed the ability to capture an atmosphere through visual storytelling. I then managed marketing for Torbay Gin, building a strategy, creating content, and helping them grow their audience locally and online.
Alongside these roles, I also worked with a few agencies, which gave me insight into the behind-the-scenes – what works well, and what tends to get lost when there’s too much distance between a client and the person actually doing the work.
A Hands-On Approach
CSJ Marketing came from wanting to do things my own way. Not just for the sake of being self-employed, but because I saw how often small businesses weren’t getting the kind of support that made sense for them.
Everything I do is tailored around what the business actually needs – whether that’s a full marketing strategy, content for social media, a few emails a month, or a full website refresh.
I moved back to Torquay partly for the sea and countryside, but also because I like working with local businesses that are part of a place. I’ve worked with brands like Torbay Gin and Torbay Rum helping showcase their award-winning spirits and build content that reflects the coastal identity of the brand. I also work with The Drum Inn, creating visuals that reflect the feel of the pub – relaxed, welcoming, full of character. That’s what I enjoy most: taking what makes a business unique and turning it into something people connect with.
Who I Work With and What It Looks Like
I work with small brands, food and drink businesses, pubs, creatives, and local traders — basically anyone who wants clear, consistent marketing support without the corporate layer.
My work usually includes:
- Social media management
- Content creation (photos, video, captions)
- Email marketing
- Website design and updates
- SEO and local visibility
- Full marketing strategy and planning
I keep things flexible, but always clear. Some clients need ongoing support, others prefer one-off projects. I’ll work with you in a way that fits how your business runs
Let's Have a Chat
If you’re looking for a marketing partner who’s easy to talk to, understands small businesses, and can get on with the job without overcomplicating it, that’s what I’m here for.
Whether you need help with socials, strategy or just want to figure out what’s worth doing next – send me a message and we’ll go from there.
