Serena is a Founder and Executive Creative Director specializing in branding and experiential work. She lives and works at Stone Kiln Castle, her historic home and former speakeasy “Tea House” in Pleasantville, New York, with her husband, son, and their adopted 100-pound retriever, “Your Bigness.”

Her creative background is broad and wonderfully eclectic. In addition to her branding and creative direction work, Serena has also worked as a sous chef, WSET Level 2 sommelier, interior designer, video director, and actor.

She brings a creative, strategic, and highly human perspective to helping people think through their work, positioning, and next steps.

Website

serenaconnelly.com
houseofsmithery.com

Interests

Culinary arts, dogs, interior design, generative AI, Martha’s Vineyard, tennis, and wine.

Can Help With

Creative and design, Portfolio reviews, Creative direction, Copywriting, Design feedback, UX/UI, Branding, Career development
Career pivots, Leadership, Freelancing, Résumé and portfolio feedback, Personal branding, Networking, Advertising agencies
In-house creative roles, Entertainment, Tech, Nonprofit, Consulting
Managing teams, Hiring, Mentoring, Building culture, Business development

Best Person to Talk to About

Why you’re not finding work by applying to jobs on LinkedIn
Building a stronger creative or professional brand
Thinking differently about career opportunities
Creative leadership and direction
Branding, experiential, and design feedback
Navigating agency, in-house, entertainment, tech, nonprofit, or consulting paths
Building culture, teams, and creative confidence

Open to Supporting

Early-career, mid-level, senior, and executive professionals. She is especially interested in supporting women and minorities.

Fun Fact

Serena says people are often surprised to learn that she is not actually an extrovert — she spends about 90% of her time at home.

Background

Serena was born in the New York metro area, raised in Colorado, and has spent the past 30+years