Kristen Waddell
Account Director and Brand Mixologist
Hometown: Carlisle, AR
Current Town: Germantown, TN
Always Here for: Sound advice, quality conversation, organization and keeping the creative gears turning
Not a Fan of: Mean people (seriously, who has time?)
What She Does at Thinkwell
Kristen is the kind of account director who balances strategy savvy with a dash of behind-the-scenes magic, ensuring projects run smoothly while creative visions stay front and center. With 20 years in marketing and communications under her belt, she’s no stranger to juggling timelines, campaigns and coffee-fueled brainstorms—all while keeping spirits high. As Thinkwell’s resident “Brand Mixologist”, Kristen has perfected the recipe for client success … blending project goals, creativity and practical brilliance into dreamy deliverables.
Early Life
Middle child alert! Kristen grew up in a lively Arkansas household, sandwiched between an older brother (her early-days adventure sidekick) and a younger sister, now her grown-up bestie. Her dad—a land real estate aficionado with a Christ-centered lens on life—has always been Kristen’s go-to for advice, inspiring her to assume positive intent in any situation. And her mom? The most selfless person Kristen knows … and a culinary superstar who’s cooked in world-renowned kitchens including the Ritz Paris, Harrods London and La Varenne Cooking School alongside Julia Child. Needless to say, Kristen has never been far from a good meal, nor from reminders that kindness and generosity are always on the menu.
Education and Career
Following a high school career filled with clubs, accolades and student leadership roles, Kristen double-majored in Sociology and Criminal Justice at the University of Arkansas—go Hogs!—where she discovered her knack for translating complex ideas into clear, actionable strategy. Over the past 20 years, she’s crafted communications for agencies, nonprofits and private companies alike, leading everything from social content and strategy sessions to campaign launches and live events. Kristen’s experience combines a meticulous eye for detail with a keen instinct for understanding people—skills she now brings to every client story she helps shape at Thinkwell.
Personal Life
When Kristen isn’t guiding brands or stirring up creative genius, she’s likely behind the wheel ferrying her children, Barrett and Elizabeth Ann, from school and youth events to basketball courts and cross-country meets, racking up miles, deep conversations and big laughs along the way. Weekends often involve Friday movie night with the kids, preparing home-cooked meals with her husband (a.k.a. best friend), Blake, or celebrating family time with extended family scattered across Tennessee. In her rare pockets of free time, Kristen can be found exploring local parks and trails, watching Hallmark Christmas movies or savoring a moment of beachside bliss with a good nonfiction book.
Kristen lives by C.S. Lewis’ wise words: “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” She carries that principle into every project, conversation and connection—both in and out of the office. Organized, purpose-driven and endlessly supportive, Kristen is the person others turn to for guidance, encouragement and a little calm in the chaos.
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