OUR FOUNDERS
LaVon Lewis, a renowned authority on branding, design, and marketing, is the Co-Founder, President, and Creative Director of Connect Branding. Based in Atlanta, Connect Branding is an award-winning firm that transforms conceptual ideas into iconic brands for companies worldwide. LaVon’s expertise and accomplishments have made him one of the most sought-after professionals in the industry, recognized by publications like Black Enterprise Magazine.
LaVon’s entrepreneurial journey began at the age of 19 when he founded his first company with his business partner and Connect Branding Co-Founder, Sherrod Shackelford. Despite facing rejection from multiple employers after graduation, LaVon’s ambition, passion, and vision propelled him forward. Over the years, he has provided creative direction for Fortune 100 companies and thousands of small businesses, earning him recognition as one of Atlanta’s Top 25 Rising Stars.
With more than two decades of business achievements, LaVon and the Connect Branding team have amassed over 50 prestigious awards worldwide, including the U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Technology Firm of the Year and Entrepreneur Of The Year. Their impressive clientele includes renowned names such as SeaWorld, Panasonic, The Home Depot, Wal-Mart, AT&T, and Coca-Cola.
Beyond his professional success, LaVon is also an accomplished author, with his book “Today is a Great Day for a WOW Image!” serving as a valuable resource for business owners and aspiring professionals. He has been featured in numerous publications, websites, and TV shows, including BlackEnterprise.com and ABC. LaVon is also a highly sought-after public speaker, hosting conferences, seminars, and workshops. He is a Co-Founder of the Make Them Buy Marketing and Branding Boot camps.
For business, speaking, or media inquiries, booklavon@gmail.com.
Sherrod Shackelford is the Co-Founder, CEO, and Chief Strategic Architect of Connect Branding, an award-winning branding and marketing firm based in Atlanta. With an entrepreneurial spirit, Sherrod launched his first business at the age of 15, utilizing his talents to enhance businesses’ web and commercial presence. His early success earned him his first paycheck of $5,000 and established him as an up-and-coming professional in the industry, recognized by Black Enterprise Magazine.
Sherrod’s expertise extends to social media, boasting a substantial following of over 300,000 across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube. He has also worked with federal government contractors, leveraging his federal security clearance and technical skills in software development, web development, and graphic design using various applications.
Approaching each project with energy, creativity, and passion, Sherrod has a proven track record of success, reflected in the 50+ industry-related awards received by SL BRANDS, his creative design and marketing agency. Combining his professional expertise with his dynamic speaking style, Sherrod engages, motivates, and inspires diverse audiences.
Sherrod graduated with honors, holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and Marketing Information Systems (MIS) from Alabama A & M University. He further enhanced his skills through extensive training in Microsoft SharePoint Application Development and supplemental Microsoft SharePoint training.
In addition to his business accomplishments, Sherrod is a sought-after author known for his highly acclaimed book “Make Them Buy: The Definitive Guide to Building a Multi-Million Dollar Business, Brand, and Attitude.” He has been featured in various publications, websites, and TV shows such as ABC, Gospel Music Channel, Stellar Awards, and Word Network. Sherrod is also a prominent public speaker, hosting and headlining conferences, seminars, and workshops. He is a Co-Founder of the Make Them Buy Marketing and Branding Boot camps.
We believe that the greatest skill an agency can possess is often underestimated. It’s simple yet powerful: listening.
We listen to our customers, the market, competitors, industry experts, critics, and detractors. Our goal is not just to seek guidance, but to gain clarity. We understand the importance of interpreting, analyzing, and understanding every aspect of our industry.
We utilize the insights gained from listening to put good ideas into action while leaving behind ineffective concepts of the past. Our trust in instinct is what has enabled us to successfully handle millions in branding projects.
As a CEO, entrepreneur, or business executive, you understand that instinct is not a mere guess. It’s a culmination of knowledge, experience, and the determination to succeed. It’s what has brought you to where you are today.
We excel in leveraging this instinct in partnership with our clients. Welcome to Connect Branding and Marketing, one of the nation’s premier agencies.
Branding Simplified.