In today's fast-paced digital world, marketing has become an essential component of any business strategy. Our team of marketing experts has years of experience helping businesses of all sizes achieve their marketing goals and is excited to share the best tips, strategies and tactics to help you succeed.
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media earned a Silver W3 Award in the 2025 international competition for excellence in web development, recognized for its creative design and execution of the L&L Builders website.
The award-winning website showcases L&L Builders’ 50-year legacy as a trusted commercial contractor in the Midwest, featuring a modern, easy-to-navigate design that highlights the company’s expertise, project portfolio, and commitment to quality craftsmanship. The site combines compelling visuals, intuitive functionality, and clean layout to reflect L&L’s reputation for integrity and excellence in construction.
The W3 Awards honor excellence in digital content, experiences, and creativity across websites, social media, online marketing, video, podcasts, mobile apps, and emerging technology. Judged by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts, the competition recognizes the brands, agencies, and creators shaping the digital landscape.
In business for 27 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
There’s a time and a dollar for every form of marketing. But there’s one form that’s longer lasting, more cost-effective, and more impactful on building awareness and brand loyalty than other forms of marketing. It’s public relations.
Why PR is More Valuable and Cost Effective Than Paid Media
When organizations evaluate how to allocate their marketing budgets, one of the biggest questions is where to invest: public relations (PR) or paid media. While both have their place in a communications strategy, PR often delivers stronger, longer-lasting value—especially when cost effectiveness is a priority.
1. Credibility Over Visibility
2. Long-Term Impact vs. Short-Term Exposure
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media Group was hired by Rochelle Community Hospital and its affiliate, XCEL Orthopedics, to produce a television commercial and social media video highlighting the hospital’s new VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement system.
The 30-second spot captures how this rapid recovery, customized patient technology is transforming care, combining cinematic visuals with clear, compelling messaging to bring high-tech healing to life. The commercial can be viewed online at: https://youtu.be/snEpCZo0zP4.
XCEL Orthopedics is a trusted provider of orthopedic care in the Rochelle and Sycamore region, offering advanced surgical solutions with a focus on patient-centered outcomes. The VELYS system represents the latest in joint replacement innovation, providing real-time data and increased surgical precision.
In business for 27 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media Group is proud to partner with GoRockford to support its Made for Rockford campaign, providing social media strategy, content creation, and digital marketing services to help share why Rockford is the ideal place to live, work, and thrive.
Made for Rockford is designed to highlight the region’s people, opportunities, and quality of life, encouraging community pride and attracting new residents, visitors, and businesses. The campaign is managed by GoRockford and features storytelling, local voices, and vibrant visuals across multiple platforms. Learn more at www.gorockford.com/madeforrockford.
In business for 27 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
Spoiler: If your site still plays music on load, we need to talk.
Let’s be honest—there’s nothing worse than a website that makes you feel like you’re solving a puzzle just to find a phone number. Whether it’s a confusing layout, a never-ending scroll, or 2007 calling to ask for its Flash animation back, poor web design can send users running faster than you can say “bounce rate.”
At KMK, we believe websites should work with your visitors, not against them. So, what actually makes a site user-friendly? We made a handy checklist (because who doesn’t love a good list?) to help you figure it out.
1. No Treasure Maps Required
If users have to play “guess the menu item” to find what they need, we’ve got a problem.
A user-friendly website should have simple, intuitive navigation. Think clear menu names (no “Experience Our Journey” instead of “About Us,” please), an easy-to-find search bar, and logical page structure.
Spoiler: A great campaign isn’t just loud—it’s smart.
At KMK Media, we love a good campaign. The kind that turns heads, starts conversations, and, most importantly, gets results. Whether it’s on a billboard, a TV screen, or your social feed, a well-executed campaign is part strategy, part creativity, and a whole lot of teamwork.
Over the years, we’ve helped launch some pretty cool campaigns—from animated TV spots to state-wide volunteer recruitment pushes—and we’ve learned a thing or two about what works (and what just makes noise).
So, we’re pulling back the curtain and sharing a few of our favorites; why we loved working on them and what made them perform like pros.
The Four Rivers Sanitation Authority “Your Bill is Changing” Campaign
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media partnered with L&L Builders to launch a sleek, user-friendly website that highlights the company’s construction expertise and commitment to quality craftsmanship.
The new site enhances user experience with intuitive navigation, an updated design, and mobile-friendly functionality, making it easy for visitors to explore L&L Builders’ services in commercial construction, remodeling, and construction management. View the website at www.llbuilders.net.
Based in Rockford, L&L Builders brings years of industry knowledge to every project, delivering exceptional service and results to clients throughout the region.
In business for 27 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
Let’s face it—marketing moves fast. One minute we’re learning a new Instagram feature, the next we’re optimizing content for AI voice search while also figuring out if we should be on Threads (or not). So, as we head into the second half of 2025, we’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve with five marketing trends that are shaping up to be big deals this year. No jargon, no fluff—just the good stuff.
1. AI Gets Smarter—and More Human
If 2024 was the year of “Let’s try ChatGPT,” then 2025 is the year of “Let’s actually use it well.” AI tools are evolving quickly, and businesses are learning how to use them to work smarter, not just faster.
Think personalized email content, predictive analytics, smarter ad targeting—and yes, even helping write this blog (hi, robot friend!). But here’s the trick: the real magic happens when you combine AI with authentic human creativity. Machines can draft, but you still need a brain (and a brand voice) to make it matter.
2. Short-Form Video Still Reigns Supreme
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media earned a Telly Award in the 2025 competition for a time-lapse social video highlighting the installation of the iconic guitar sign at Hard Rock Casino Rockford.
The award-winning video captured the excitement and significance of raising one of the region’s most recognizable landmarks—a towering 62-foot replica of Rick Nielsen’s famous checkerboard Hamer guitar. Installed in August 2024, the sign marked a key milestone ahead of the casino’s grand opening and celebrated Rockford’s musical legacy. KMK’s fast-paced, engaging video brought the moment to life and resonated with users across social media platforms.
Now in its 45th year, the Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens and receive over 12,000 entries from around the world annually.
In business for 27 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media launched a redesigned website for Entré Computer Solutions, the region’s premier provider of I.T. security and network support.
The new site improves overall performance with streamlined navigation, a modernized layout, and optimized mobile functionality, allowing customers to easily access services and support from any device. View the website at www.entrerock.com.
Based in Machesney Park, Entré Computer Solutions has delivered technology solutions to businesses across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin since 1983.
In business for 27 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media Group announced the addition of Quentin Oliver as Art Director. With nearly two decades of agency experience in Illinois and Minnesota, Oliver brings nationally recognized design expertise to KMK’s team.
Throughout his career, Oliver has developed compelling visual campaigns for high-profile brands such as Martha Stewart, Phillips 66, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Uber. His creative skillset spans digital, print, email, and web design—delivering work that elevates each brand’s unique identity and story. One of his standout achievements includes designing the official White House Easter Egg for First Lady Michelle Obama.
In business for 27 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media was hired by Children’s Safe Harbor to modernize its online presence through a website development project. The project focused on improving functionality and user experience, including site architecture, responsive design, content editing, and streamlined navigation, resulting in a welcoming, accessible digital space for the families they serve. www.childrenssafeharbor.net
Children’s Safe Harbor provides a secure, neutral setting where children and parents can maintain important family connections in a safe, structured environment. The organization’s supervised visitation services allow children to spend time with non-custodial parents under the guidance of trained staff, while its safe exchange program helps families complete custody transfers with minimal stress or conflict.
In business for more than 26 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
You’ve launched a beautiful, well-organized website. It clearly explains what you do, looks great on desktop and mobile, and maybe even has a blog or two. So why does it feel like you’re shouting into the void?
The answer usually comes down to three letters: SEO.
What Is SEO—and Why Does It Matter?
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps your website appear in search results when people are actively looking for businesses like yours. Without it, even the most polished site can be buried beneath pages of other results, never reaching your intended audience. SEO bridges that gap by making your site easier for search engines to understand, and more likely to show up in front of the right people at the right time.
How SEO Fixes Visibility Issues
When your website isn’t ranking well, it’s often due to a combination of missing keywords, unclear structure, slow page speed, or thin content. SEO addresses all of that. First, it identifies the search terms your potential customers are using, then incorporates those keywords naturally into your site’s copy, blog posts, and backend metadata. This tells search engines, “Hey, this page matches what people are looking for.”
Next comes technical optimization: ensuring your site loads quickly, works seamlessly on mobile devices, and is free of broken links or confusing navigation. These factors improve user experience, which search engines reward with higher rankings. Content also plays a critical role. Well-written, original content that answers questions and solves problems helps your site stand out as a trusted resource.
Long-Term Impact
SEO isn’t a quick fix, it’s a long-term investment that builds momentum. Over time, as your rankings improve, your site begins to generate steady, high-quality traffic without the ongoing cost of paid ads. It turns your website into a tool that not only looks good, but works hard behind the scenes to attract and convert the right audience.
If your website isn’t getting the attention it deserves, SEO could be the key to unlocking its full potential. KMK Media can help you create a results-driven SEO strategy tailored to your business goals—so you’re not just online, you’re getting found. Let’s chat: https://www.kmkmedia.com/lets-talk/contact.
Hi! I’m Hannah Schmidt, a communications specialist at KMK Media. In other words, I write web content, manage social media marketing, send PR pitches, coordinate events, and occasionally chase down last-minute RSVPs—basically, if it involves words or organization, I’m probably on it. I’m in the middle of it. My job is a fun blend of strategy, storytelling, and creativity… and on this particular Wednesday, it also included a very good police dog named Dice.
Here’s how the day went:
5:30 a.m. – Getting started
My alarm goes off at 5:30 a.m.—not because I have to, but because I like to. I kick off the day with a light workout (I’m training for a half marathon in June!) and enjoy a little peace before things get busy. After getting my miles in, I eat breakfast and hang out with my cats—my first (and fluffiest) meetings of the day.
7:45 a.m. – Inbox dive and to-do lists
Once I’m at the office, it’s time to scan through emails, organize my day, and prioritize projects. On this particular morning, I had a mix of writing and client check-ins on deck.
Morning – PR pitches, content calendars, and social strategy
I started by sending out a second round of February PR pitches for one of our finance clients and wrapped up some social media strategy suggestions to help another client boost engagement. I finalized a social media calendar for a client in the construction industry and followed up on some blog planning and media outreach for a local nonprofit.
Lots of multitasking, but I love hopping between industries—it keeps things interesting!
12:00 p.m. – Lunch and a breather
I usually break around noon for lunch. It’s a much-needed reset before heading into the afternoon sprint.
1:30 p.m. – Dice steals the spotlight
This afternoon was hands-down the highlight of my week: coordinating a press event at Hard Rock Casino Rockford with the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department to introduce Dice, their newest K9 officer. With Hard Rock sponsoring his addition to the unit, Dice made his public debut and totally stole the show. I helped coordinate media onsite, answered questions, confirmed interviews, and sent out a post-event PR pitch to keep the buzz going. PR with paws? Yes, please.
Afternoon – Design reviews and wrap-ups
Back at my desk, I reviewed flyer designs for an upcoming client’s open house and sent the latest proofs off for feedback. I wrapped up the day by checking in on a few final projects, answering emails, and prepping for tomorrow’s tasks. There’s always something new to jump into -- just how I like it.
5:00 p.m. – Off the clock and on the dance floor
After work, I swapped my work brain for dance brain. I’m very active in the Rockford and Wisconsin dance community, and tonight I had an Improv dance session to get to. It’s my favorite way to recharge and stay creative.
No two days in this role are ever the same and that’s exactly what keeps it exciting. From PR events to social content to client brainstorms, I love getting to tell stories that connect people, build brands, and sometimes… involve dogs.
As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect, revamp, and recharge—not just personally but professionally. For businesses, a logo is more than just an image; it’s the face of your brand and a critical part of your identity. If your logo hasn’t evolved with your business, 2025 might be the year for a makeover. Here are the top five reasons to consider refreshing your logo this year:
1. Stay Relevant in a Changing Market
Design trends evolve, and what worked a decade ago might not resonate today. A modern, updated logo can signal to your audience that your business is forward-thinking and adaptable. From minimalist styles to bold typography, aligning your logo with current trends can help your brand remain competitive and appealing.
2. Connecting with a New Audience
As your business expands or shifts its target audience, a logo redesign can help you connect with a new demographic. It enables you to tailor your visual identity to better appeal to the values and preferences of your evolving customer base. A well-crafted logo can attract and engage a broader audience, building a deeper connection with both existing and potential customers.
3. Improve Brand Recognition
Did you know 75% of consumers say they remember a brand by its logo? A memorable logo is a powerful tool for brand recognition. If your current logo doesn't leave a lasting impression or is easily forgettable, it might be time for a change. A new logo gives you the chance to create a visually striking and memorable symbol that resonates with your target audience, making your brand more memorable and identifiable in a crowded market.
4. Adapt to Digital Spaces
In today’s digital-first world, logos must look great on everything from social media profiles to mobile apps. If your logo wasn’t designed with digital platforms in mind, now’s the time to optimize it. A simplified, versatile logo ensures it works seamlessly across all mediums.
5. Celebrate Milestones
Is your business hitting a significant milestone in 2025? Anniversaries, achievements, or the start of a new chapter are excellent opportunities to refresh your logo. A redesign not only marks the occasion but also reinvigorates your brand, reminding customers of your legacy and commitment to excellence.
Ready to Redesign? Let’s chat: https://www.kmkmedia.com/lets-talk/contact.
Hi, I’m Shaun Kehoe, a web developer at KMK Media. If you’ve ever wondered what a typical day looks like for someone in my role, here’s a peek into my daily routine. Spoiler alert: it’s a mix of strategy, creativity, and a lot of caffeine!
5:00 AM - The Day Begins
My alarm goes off bright and early. I’m a morning person, so I like to start my day with some quiet time. After getting ready, I let my dog out for a quick walk, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and mentally prepare for the day ahead. By 6:30, I’m on the road and ready to tackle whatever challenges come my way.
7:00 AM - Diving In
I’m usually one of the first people to arrive at the office. The first thing I do is check my emails and prioritize tasks for the day. Creating a detailed to-do list helps me stay focused and ensures I hit all my deadlines. With my plan in place, I dive straight into the first task on the list.
9:00 AM - Team Collaboration
Our staff meeting is one of the highlights of my morning. It’s a chance to connect with the entire team, share updates, and brainstorm solutions to any challenges we’re facing. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do at KMK, and these meetings ensure we’re all aligned and working toward the same goals.
11:00 AM - Client Kickoff Meeting
Today, I joined an internal kickoff meeting for a new client website. This is where the magic begins—brainstorming ideas, discussing goals, and setting the foundation for a site that not only looks great but performs flawlessly.
When you think of a multi-media/web developer, you might picture someone tucked away in a dimly lit room, surrounded by monitors and tapping away at lines of mysterious code. But a day in the life as KMK Media Group's go-to tech wizard (complete with wand), is so much more than that. Curious about what keeps me busy? Buckle up for a behind-the-scenes look at a typical day!
8:00 AM: Getting the Day Rolling I kick off my morning by steeping some tea and diving right into my first task: adding a slick new header image for one of our clients, the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging. Precision and creativity go hand-in-hand, so I like to make sure everything looks perfect and fits seamlessly into the website's design. After a few tweaks and double-checking that the image loads beautifully across all devices, I send it off to the client for approval.
9:00 AM: Team Check-In It’s time for the weekly staff meeting, where the rest of the KMK crew and I gather to catch up and discuss current projects. Whether brainstorming creative ideas or reviewing timelines, this is a chance for everyone to share input, exchange laughs, and stay in sync.
10:30 AM: Rockin’ Out with Video Editing Next up: some video editing magic. Today’s project? Adjusting the audio for a Hard Rock Casino Rockford timelapse video, making sure it strikes the perfect balance between powerful and clear. I fine-tune the sound, syncing it to jive with the visuals.
12:00 PM: Technical Guru Mode Activated Time for another meeting! This time on a sales presentation for a prospective client. As KMK's resident tech expert, I handle the technical aspects, ensuring everything goes smoothly.
For those of you who own a small business, you know your title as president, CEO or chief-everything-officer doesn’t mean anything.
Yesterday, I took out the garbage.
After 26 years in business, it still doesn’t feel like work because I love what I do—working on my business and in it. I think my favorite part is the diversity of what I do. Every day is very different from the one before and within each typical 10-hour average workday, I partner with multiple clients spanning several industries. I also get to work with our talented team.
Here’s a sneak peek at a day in my life…today, Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
6:30 a.m. – Wake up and run/walk (depending on energy level) on the treadmill for 20-30 minutes while watching the national news recorded from the night before. If time allows, catch up on the local morning news.
Let’s face it—no one wants to be just another cookie in a generic cookie-cutter world. Brands, like people, are craving individuality, originality, and most of all—connection. Enter creativity, stage left! It’s the heartbeat behind every memorable brand, the key to unlocking genuine relationships with your audience, and the secret ingredient that keeps people coming back for more.
Why Creativity is the Soul of Branding
At the core of every successful brand is creativity. It’s not just about having the most visually appealing logo or the snazziest tagline; it’s about telling a story that resonates emotionally. People don’t fall in love with brands because of facts—they fall in love because of how the brand makes them feel.
Think about your favorite brands. What comes to mind? Odds are, it’s not just their products or services, but how those brands make you feel when you interact with them. Whether it’s a sense of comfort, excitement, or nostalgia, creative branding uses emotion as its superpower to foster connections.
The Human Touch in a Digital World
