Keep It Real Social, a Petoskey-based marketing agency, announces the promotion of Carie Birkmeier to Creative Director. She will lead creative efforts for KRS’ clients, helping the region’s diverse companies develop innovative materials that can help set them apart in a competitive business landscape.
“Carie has been an integral part of Keep it Real Social’s continued growth. Every great design begins with an even better story. Carie is more than just a creative, she’s a storyteller and a leader. It was a natural progression for Carie to advance as Creative Director, and we look forward to what the future holds as she expands her role with our agency,” said Sommer Poquette, founder and C.E.O. of Keep it Real Social.
Birkmeier joined the company in May 2021 and has since grown its services extensively in terms of design capabilities. KRS now offers additional creative services, including comprehensive brand strategy and design, thoughtful website planning, creative graphic design work, and voice-specific copywriting, all in addition to its extensive social media content planning and management services.
Birkmeier received a degree in graphic communications from Northern Michigan University and has since worked in many industries ranging from branding, to publication design, to event production and beyond. She designed countless materials and led branding efforts across the country and will be sharing her knowledge and experience with clients to help them visualize and reach their goals.
“I am thrilled to grow with Keep It Real Social and continue to contribute my creative talents to our clients and local businesses. I see so much potential in our communities, and I’m excited to see what new projects and opportunities my future with KRS will bring,” Birkmeier said.
To learn more about Keep It Real Social, its team, services, and more, visit keepitrealsocial.com.

Sommer Poquette is the founder and CEO of Keep it Real Social, an award-winning, five-star boutique marketing agency. Since 2008, Sommer has been a consultant, aiding hundreds of local, regional, and national businesses in expanding their online presence. Keep it Real Social specializes in optimizing social media channels, crafting powerful strategies that integrate local SEO, and managing the implementation and ongoing supervision of client accounts. The agency’s comprehensive services include strategizing, training, and implementation, ensuring businesses succeed in their social media marketing efforts.