LAURA PHILLIPS
Strategic Communicator | Complex Ideas, Clear Stories
My Superpower? Curiosity.
I'm a marketer by profession, a storyteller by nature and the person who's always asking, "But why?"
Whether I'm developing a communications strategy, writing a feature story or building a digital campaign, I love taking big, messy ideas and turning them into something clear and compelling.
Over the past decade, I've worked across marketing, public relations, content strategy and digital communications, partnering with organizations to tell stories that inspire action (not just clicks).
When I'm not working, you'll find me painting, writing music, experimenting with a new baking recipe or deep-diving into the latest space discoveries.
The Quick Hits
Complex Topics. Compelling Stories.
Whether I'm diving into cutting-edge manufacturing technologies or showcasing the KC region to site selectors and talent, my approach stays the same: understand the audience, then write with purpose.
Media & PR Strategy
Anyone can write a press release. Great PR is about getting people to listen to the stories that matter.
I uncover the stories that make organizations stand out, developing media strategies around them and turning those ideas into meaningful coverage. From local television to international publications, every placement starts with understanding what makes a story worth telling.
Coverage Highlights
On the Record
Moving from behind-the-scenes strategy to being part of the conversation.
"Meet the First Full-Time Taylor Swift Journalist"
"Kansas City AEC firms leverage World Cup hype to recruit 500 interns"
"Seeing Color In Its Best Light"
Why Gauge 45 Design?
Two of my greatest passions: local businesses and music.
When I launched my freelance graphic design business, I wanted it to reflect both — helping local musicians tell their stories through thoughtful, creative design.
As a bassist, I drew inspiration from my instrument. 45 is the gauge (thickness) of the highest string on a standard four-string bass.
While my creative work now extends far beyond music, that original spark remains at the center of everything I do. Gauge 45 Design represents my love of storytelling and my belief that every idea deserves thoughtful representation.
Testimonials
"What stood out most about working with Laura was her curiosity and the care she put into understanding the audience. She has a unique ability to recognize the nuances that make communication more meaningful, effective, and impactful. Even on projects with many stakeholders and competing perspectives, Laura consistently found a way to synthesize ideas, build alignment, and move the work forward with thoughtfulness and purpose.
One of the things I appreciated most was being able to bring Laura an idea, a rough direction (no matter how vague) or a tight deadline, and trust that she would transform it into something exceptional. She combines strategic thinking with creativity and flawless execution, making her someone I could always rely on to elevate both the work and the people around her."
Samantha Jefferson
Managing Director
Site Selectors Guild
"It's hard to think of someone who I could recommend more highly than Laura. When she entered our master's degree program it was quickly apparent that she would be a stellar student.
She brings a combination of excellent strategy skills, creativity and a great work ethic. She was a valued teammate and made a lasting impression on our faculty and service-learning clients. She will be an asset to any organization."
Matthew Tidwell, Ph.D.
Director, Graduate Professional Studies
University of Kansas
"I was Laura's supervisor for five years as she worked at Nazdar as Web Designer and then Marketing Specialist... She acted as the company’s brand voice to inspire our customers and attract new clients. Laura was a joy to work with and a super effective/productive team member."
Jay Tharp
Marketing Communications Director
Nazdar Ink Technologies
"Laura is a communications genius! From her ability to write concisely and create compelling content to collaborating with partners and clients to streamline PR efforts, she is a pro in every sense of the word.
Working with her was always a breeze. I knew that if Laura was involved, we were in good hands. Not only is she smart, talented, and driven, but she's a wonderful person whom I truly enjoyed working with."
Janelle Higgins
Owner
With Nel