Bill Kaelin shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Bill , thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Yes, I won Sponsor of the Year for Blue Ridge Pride in 2025. It was an honor. At BKM, we’re proud to be an LGBTQ-owned company. Now more than ever, it’s important to stand for equality and inclusion, and we remain committed to supporting spaces and partners that celebrate love, diversity, and equal rights for all.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Bill Kaelin, founder of Bill Kaelin Marketing, a boutique marketing and events agency based in Atlanta known for creating bold, experiential brand experiences. With roots in nightlife and hospitality, I built BKM around the idea that connection is everything. Our team thrives on creative storytelling, strategic partnerships, surprise and delight entertainment moments and helping brands show up authentically and make a lasting impact.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
Madonna. I discovered her music when I was twelve, and she showed me what it means to reinvent yourself while staying true to who you are. Her unapologetic authenticity gave me permission to express myself fully and build a life around creativity, freedom, and resilience. That energy shaped my career from the nightlife scene to running an agency that celebrates individuality and pushes culture forward. Staying curious, learning from younger voices, and constantly evolving is how we keep the work alive and relevant at BKM.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
That you’re going to be okay. Your perseverance through attempted suppression will make you stronger than you ever imagined. It will teach you resilience and give you a depth of empathy that many privileged people who haven’t faced the same obstacles will never understand. One day, you’ll see that everything you thought made you different is exactly what makes you powerful.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Freedom of speech and equal rights for all. I’ve built my life and my business on the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued for who they are.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
When I actually turn off my phone, shut my computer, and delete my social media apps while on vacation. Owning my own business means I’m always working, but I’ve learned that to keep this pace up, I have to completely unplug. Time away with my partner, our dogs, and nature reminds me that there’s more to life than work and that true peace comes from being fully present in those simple moments.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.billkaelin.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accounts/onetap/?next=%2Fhotelgranada_atlanta%2F
- Linkedin: https://www.instagram.com/billkaelinmktg
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BillKaelinMKTG/
Image Credits
Bill Kaelin Marketing
