HannahRyu
I believe the best work is the work we get done, and then iterate on.
Across every industry and role, I’ve found the same truth: we’re all looking for connection.Hannah Ryu
My favorite type of work typically sits at the intersections of strategy, storytelling, human dynamics, psychology, and brand experience. I’m really proud of the work we do as a studio. We have the privilege and the purview to sit intimately with our clients to help them get closer to bringing their visions to life.
I believe that our best work happens when we are truly open to the experience of discovery. Many times that looks like sitting with harder hitting questions that feel uncomfortable or reviewing the data and making new decisions even if it proves against our own bias or assumptions.
From nonprofits to magazines to products
Early in my adolescence, my wish was to live many lives in this lifetime. I always felt trapped by the idea of a single career ladder, so I pursued roles out of my interest as much as possible. From studying abroad in Amman Jordan to being an assistant at a magazine in NYC to building campaigns in nonprofit and eventually designing products in tech.
Across every industry and role, I’ve found the same truth: we’re all looking for connection. In marketing, it’s resonating with an audience. In product, it’s making something feel easy and intuitive, so people actually enjoy the tools they use. In brand experience, it’s feeling seen and part of a community. At every level, we’re looking for an authentic experience, or to create one for someone else.
The purpose of strategy
and the why
Most studios are hired to make a thing, to execute on the deliverable. And while we like to get the work done, I’m most proud of how we approach our work with intention, understanding that our work and product is a living organism that will inevitably grow, iterate, and change form. At Oak Theory, we are not yes-people; we believe our role is to give you our honest perspective at every step of the way.
If I had to describe our working style, it would be: high trust, high care, zero interest in process theater or bureaucratic antics.
Off the clock
I (used to) compete in Muay Thai and co-founded an athletic apparel brand called Southpaw Stitches. These days, I am running around being mom to two curious toddler boys and supporting the expansion of our family’s second-generation dry cleaners. Motherhood has taught me more and humbled me more than any other role I’ve played. It’s truly a sacred gift and I am grateful for the journey.
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