Who We Are
Kern Creative Design is a multidisciplinary creative studio based in Northeast Ohio, led by Russ Kern — a designer, educator, and creative strategist with over 30 years of experience shaping brands that last.
We specialize in branding, web design and development, motion design, and marketing, bringing clarity and creative energy to every project, from startups and nonprofits to established organizations and Fortune 500 clients.
Design is more than decoration, it’s communication. Every project is built around purpose: understanding audiences, solving problems, and building brands that inspire action.
What We Believe
Design should move people visually, emotionally, and strategically. That’s what we mean by “Give your brand some Rumble.”
It’s not about noise. It’s about presence. It's that low, confident hum that comes from clear thinking, strong design, and a message that resonates.
We believe in:
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Clarity over clutter. Design that communicates, not complicates.
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Collaboration over ego. The best ideas are built together.
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Craft over shortcuts. Attention to detail turns good into exceptional.
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Performance over trend. Beauty means little if it doesn’t work.
Our Approach
Every engagement starts with listening. We learn your goals, your challenges, and your audience, then translate them into strategy and design that connect.
Our process is structured but flexible:
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Discovery & Strategy: Understanding where you are and where you want to go.
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Design & Development: Turning insight into visuals and systems that perform.
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Launch & Support: Ensuring every detail works flawlessly and evolves with you.
We build brands and websites that aren’t just beautiful — they’re measurable, maintainable, and ready to scale.
Who We Work With
Our clients range from small local businesses to national organizations, and every project is approached with the same level of care.
We’ve partnered with nonprofits, educational institutions, industrial manufacturers, and consumer brands — helping each communicate with confidence and consistency.
Whether you need a brand refresh, a high-performing website, or a campaign that builds awareness, we bring creative horsepower that fits your scale and story.
About Russ Kern
Russ Kern has spent his career helping organizations use design to make meaningful impact. After decades in agency leadership and education, he founded Kern Creative Design to bring strategic creativity to clients who value both craft and collaboration.
In addition to client work, Russ teaches graphic design and motion design at The University of Akron, sharing real-world insight with the next generation of creatives.
Russ is one of the most talented, imaginative, intelligent, hard-working creatives I have ever had the pleasure of working with.
Maria Drutel - Maria Drutel Creative, LLC
Although he is not, it feels like Russ is a member of the KELTEC team with his knowledge of our processes & staff... I believe we were lucky to be able to work with such a talented & patient designer
Ed Kaiser - KELTEC Technolab
We Keep some pretty good company.
