We take a lot of pride in our culture—something that was put into practice by four rock stars… ahem, people: Roy Spence, Steve Gurasich, Judy Trabulsi, and Tim McClure. Our Founders. Since those four folks founded our agency 42 years ago—and therefore gave us jobs, we all like to get together and celebrate them and the house that they built. (And let’s be honest, a celebration is a great excuse to eat tacos. We love our tacos around here.)

Last Friday (which, notably, was my tenth day as a GSD&Mer) was Founders’ Day, so around noon, charter buses whisked my coworkers and me away from the office and dropped us off at Studio 6A (where Austin City Limits TV tapings took place for over thirty years).

When we stepped in to the elevator, it was summer in Austin. When we stepped out… well, it was Christmas in September, y’all—complete with Santa hats, Christmas trees, and entertainment by Dale Watson and his Lone Stars.

Frosty joined in the festivities

Dale Watson and his Lone Stars

With speeches throughout the day, we celebrated our heritage and our future, but one moment in particular sticks out in my memory. Our CEO and fearless leader Duff Stewart said this about our agency:

We approach everything we do with heart. We want each of you to be happy, successful, and fulfilled. That’s love.

A holiday party in September, Dale Watson, tacos, and an inspiring speech from our CEO… Can you think of a better way to welcome a new employee to GSD&M? No? Me either. Two weeks in, and I am feeling right at home. You could even say that I’m feeling the love. (Intentional bad joke.)

…So we’re having another party next Friday, right?

 Check out photos from the day here: http://gsdm.biz/18XEflS