Meet Lauren Schwartz | Founder The Loft 325 Creative Agency

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Schwartz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, how do you think about risk?
When I was younger, I was not inclined to take risks. I adhered to the rules, ensuring that everything remained secure and in its designated place. However, as I matured, I realized that the safety of the comfortable box I had created for myself was no longer fulfilling my personal or professional ambitions.

Risk, by definition, involves taking actions that may involve danger or uncertainty to achieve a goal. Every career move is inherently a risk—whether it’s taking a new job, sharing ideas in a group, or speaking up to voice your opinions. Each of these actions requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Throughout my career, I have taken numerous risks, each contributing to my growth and success. I began my journey in graphic design, eventually transitioning into apparel and accessory design—an area I knew little about at the time. This shift was a significant risk but one that taught me invaluable lessons about product design. From there, I moved into the eCommerce and digital marketing landscape. Although I was more comfortable in this space, I soon realized that the industry had evolved significantly since I had last worked in it.

Taking risks has taught me humility and the importance of seeking help when needed. In every role I’ve held, I’ve learned that continual learning and knowing when to ask for guidance are crucial to success. Embracing risks allows for bold decision-making and prevents stagnation. Without risk, one can become dissatisfied or regretful of missed opportunities. Starting my own business has been one of the most daunting, yet rewarding, risks I’ve ever taken. Had I not taken that leap, I would never have discovered the fulfillment and success that comes with it.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Loft 325 was founded with the mission to amplify the voice of creatives in the advertising landscape. When I first launched the agency, media buying dominated, with creative often taking a back seat. However, the dynamic shifted during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly when Meta altered its algorithm. Today, creative is the driving force behind successful paid advertising. While traffic and creative work hand-in-hand, having a powerful and distinctive creative voice is crucial to hitting your targets.

I established The Loft 325 based on my creative expertise, with valuable insights from my media-buying colleagues. I was always intrigued by the data behind media buying and sought to understand how my creative work was being delivered to the right audiences. As I explored further, I realized the synergy between creative and data. This realization led me to build not only a top-tier creative team but one that deeply understands the importance of data—something that truly sets us apart from other agencies.

Building this business was not without its challenges. It required long hours, numerous wins and setbacks, and a clear understanding of the types of clients and collaborators I wanted to work with. In the beginning, I handled everything—from design and sales to marketing, finance, and human resources. After a year of hard work, I was able to start building a team. What began as a small operation has grown into a dynamic group of 10 in-house professionals, supported by a network of 80 contractors.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Living in southern California is probably one of the best places to live in my opinion. I’ve lived here my whole life and I can honestly say it has the best of everything. I’m close to the beach, close to the mountains, I can go to a larger city whenever I want and all of it is within driving distance of an hour.

Its hard to pinpoint everything I would want to do if I had a friend visiting from out of town. But, I would take them to the beach in Laguna and give them the tour of just walking along the coast and eating at some of the amazing restaurants near there. We would head to LA so they can witness all of the historical things there, from the Getty, to Hollywood, to Dodger stadium! So many amazing things to do in LA.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There have been so many people who have helped me along the way. Taking risks and encouraging me to succeed. My biggest cheerleader has always been my husband. He has always supporting me and has rooted for me on the sidelines. His support has encouraged my risk taking and I am forever greatful. My sister and mom have always been there to support me, telling me to take the risk and go for it. Without them there would have never been The Loft 325.

Website: https://theloft325.com

Instagram: @theloft325

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-schwartz-07354312/

Twitter: loft325

Image Credits
Ashley Gables