Lessons from Local Leaders:

Christina Hoffmann Harmon

From Philosophy to Marketing Powerhouse: The Story of Christina Hoffmann Harmon and The Stillwater Agency

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, few have carved a unique path as Christina Hoffmann Harmon. As the founder of The Stillwater Agency, a boutique marketing firm specializing in hyperlocal marketing and SEO for home services and luxury architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) companies, Christina’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.

From Philosophy Major to Marketing Maven

Christina’s career didn’t start in marketing. In fact, she majored in philosophy and religion at James Madison University with aspirations of becoming a lawyer. However, after graduating, she quickly realized law wasn’t her passion. Instead, she took an unexpected turn into luxury wine sales, working with collectors and high-end distributors.

This role took her from Washington, D.C., to Southern California, exposing her to luxury markets and high-touch client services. But after seven years, she found herself at a crossroads, longing for something different—something creative. Her love for design led her to a role in textile sales, where she learned about material design, trade shows, and the intricacies of the industry.

Finding Her Passion in Design and Marketing

Determined to forge her own path, Christina launched her own design studio in San Diego. What started as a workspace quickly evolved into a full-fledged interior design and retail business. Her hands-on experience with branding, website design, and digital marketing for her own company unknowingly laid the foundation for her future career.

A move back to Virginia and an opportunity to showcase her collection at High Point Market—a major design industry event—pushed her to refine her branding and marketing skills even further. However, despite success, the business model wasn’t financially sustainable. Christina made a bold pivot into digital marketing, joining an agency specializing in home services companies. It was there that she discovered her love for analytics, SEO, and helping small businesses thrive.

The Birth of The Stillwater Agency

When the pandemic hit, Christina found herself furloughed from her role managing marketing for a major furniture manufacturer. However, her expertise didn’t go unnoticed. Clients from her previous agency began reaching out, desperate for her guidance. What started as a few part-time consulting projects quickly blossomed into a full-scale agency.

Today, The Stillwater Agency is a powerhouse in the digital marketing world, particularly for luxury residential remodeling firms. The agency thrives on blending data-driven strategies with aesthetic sensibilities, ensuring that high-end brands effectively communicate their value to discerning clients.

What Sets The Stillwater Agency Apart?

Christina’s agency is different from traditional marketing firms in several key ways:

• Hyperlocal Focus: Rather than taking a broad approach, the agency focuses on local marketing strategies that maximize visibility within a brand’s immediate service area.
• SEO Expertise: Christina and her team specialize in optimizing online presence, ensuring businesses rank high in search results and reach their ideal customers.
• Luxury Aesthetic & Branding: Her background in design gives her a unique edge in crafting visually compelling marketing campaigns that align with high-end clientele.
• Data-Driven Decisions: From analytics to conversion tracking, every campaign is backed by real numbers and performance insights.
• Client-Centric Approach: With a background in small business ownership, Christina treats her clients’ marketing budgets with the same care she would her own.

The Power of Strong Client Relationships

One of Christina’s core philosophies is that great client relationships fuel great results. She takes pride in watching her clients grow from struggling startups to successful, multimillion-dollar enterprises. She believes in working closely with business owners, helping them navigate the challenges of marketing while celebrating their wins along the way.

Her hands-on approach is evident in the way she communicates with clients—often texting them, knowing details about their families, and celebrating their personal and professional milestones.

Industry Insights & Trends in Luxury Marketing

As someone deeply embedded in the world of digital marketing and luxury branding, Christina shared some key trends shaping the industry:

• The Rise of Video Marketing: Consumers crave authenticity, and video content—such as job site walkthroughs, testimonials, and behind-the-scenes looks—builds trust and credibility.
• Simplicity in Design & Marketing: Less is more. Overly complex websites and excessive features (like chatbots) are losing their appeal. A streamlined, intuitive user experience is key.
• Online Booking Integration: Many luxury service providers hesitate to offer online booking, but those who do find that it significantly increases client conversions and efficiency.
• Reputation Management Matters: With the Federal Trade Commission cracking down on fake reviews, businesses must proactively manage their online reputation while ensuring compliance with ethical review practices.

A Passion for Helping Others

Beyond business, Christina is a dedicated advocate for animal welfare and supports organizations like the Equine Connection Center, which offers equine-assisted learning programs. Her commitment to community and personal values is reflected in everything she does—both in business and in life.

What’s Next for Christina and The Stillwater Agency?

Looking ahead, Christina envisions hiring a team while maintaining the “hive mind” dynamic that keeps her agency innovative. She’s also focused on balancing work with personal life, ensuring that she remains present for her young son while continuing to scale her business.

Final Words of Advice

For those aspiring to enter the luxury marketing space, Christina offers this advice: “Take your time, get experience, and work for an agency first. Learn the ins and outs before starting your own business. Understanding both the creative and analytical sides of marketing will set you apart.”

With a deep understanding of business, design, and marketing, Christina Hoffman Harmon continues to make waves in the industry. Her journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, passion, and genuine care for clients. The Stillwater Agency is more than just a marketing firm—it’s a partner in business growth, driven by expertise and fueled by relationships.

Reach Christina Hoffmann Harmon Below