We are a minority-owned agency that values and best showcases "the Soul" of a business and brand. HBS is here to help multicultural and minority-led businesses identify their unique voice and purpose to develop a strong brand identity that stands out.

We are passionate about creating vintage-styled marketing structures that inspire and connect communities. We believe in the power of creativity, credibility, consistency, community, and soul, and we infuse these values into everything we do. These values are at the heart of our agency, and we believe they are what make us stand out from the rest.

At Hot Buttered Soul, we develop authentic representation and messaging that is essential to reaching diverse communities. That's why we also work with non-minority operated companies to help them authentically reach and connect with minority and diverse communities.

Our approach to marketing is inspired by the symphonic and soulful sounds of Isaac Hayes’ 1969 album, and we aim to bring a similar energy and intensity to every brand we develop. Whether it's crafting a brand strategy, designing a logo, or creating a marketing campaign, we are the master creatives that will bring your brand to life.

CREATOR &
MARKETING STRATEGIST

Janelle Varnado

CREATIVE
DIRECTOR

OUR
CREATIVE PRINCIPLES

With a focus on soulful creativity, purpose-driven design, strategic planning, and community connection, HBS is dedicated to delivering innovative and meaningful solutions for clients seeking authentic and impactful representation.

YOUNG FELLAZ BRASS BAND
2022 Tremé Fall Festival

Creativity

Creativity is the foundation of great design and communication. We approach every project with an open mind, and work collaboratively with our clients to develop unique, memorable and effective solutions.

Credibility

We understand the importance of trust and credibility in business. We strive to build long-term relationships with our clients by providing honest, transparent and reliable services. Our work is backed by research, expertise, and a commitment to delivering results.

Consistency

Consistency is key to building strong brands and lasting relationships. We work hard to maintain a consistent tone, style, and quality across all of our work, and we make sure that our clients' messages are always constant, clear and impactful.

Community

There’s value in the power of community and the impact it has on businesses. We aim to create work that resonates with our clients' audiences and builds strong connections between brands and their communities. We are committed to giving back to our own community, and seek opportunities to support local causes and organizations.

Soul

Our work should has soul, and we strive to infuse our projects with authenticity and humanity. We aim to create work that is both beautiful and meaningful, and that resonates with the emotions, experiences, traditions, and morals of our clients' audiences.