At the heart of every great creative is the ability to be ingenious - the ability to think differently and solve problems.
As a creative agency rooted in visual merchandising principles and practice, we provide solutions for brand activation through visual strategy and development, planning, sourcing, implementation, and hands-on execution, bringing life to consumer experiences across all platforms. Employing the best visual merchandisers and designers, we’re your resource to create a visual experience that elevates your space to the next level, drives consumer traffic, and increases sales.
Founded in 1999 in Columbus, Ohio, by creative directors and visual merchandising experts Joe Baer and Paul Cook, ZenGenius was built on the belief that our unique talents are an opportunity and a gift to help the world through visual merchandising.
For 25 years, ZenGenius has built an extensive network of visual merchandisers, creative directors, stylists, and designers, who constantly question, tinker, and challenge the status quo to bring life to your brand through visual experiences.
We deliver exceptional results because we have exceptional people. Our team questions, tinkers, and challenges the status quo, unlocking creativity around every turn.
MEET THE TEAM
YOUR SECRET WEAPON FOR SUCCESS
JOE BAER
Co-Founder + CEO + Creative Director
As the co-founder, visionary, and creative force behind ZenGenius, Joe is a visual merchandising and retail industry leader. He is committed to raising awareness around visual merchandising as an important element of any great retail and event experience.
PAUL COOK
Co-Founder + Sr. Visual Merchandiser
From his early days as retail sales manager at Henri Bendel to finding his knack for the creative aspects of retail in the visual department, Paul’s love for retail flourished. Diving into the operations side of retail, Paul established visual standards guides, created training manuals, and led seasonal rollouts.
LUANNE BAER
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
MEG LEFELD
Director of Business Development
STEPHANIE BAIR-GARANT
Director of Visual Merchandising + Talent
EMILY SHIREY
Director of Visual Merchandising + Events
JOHAN KISZONAK
Design Director
JEN DRAGONETTI
Visual Project Manager NYC
JALPA PATEL
Interior Architect
JEN RYAN CONLEY
Marketing + Administrative Specialist
ALEX NOWICKI
Event Design Coordinator
RYAN PARADISE
Facilities Coordinator
AMANDA SHOWALTER
Operations Coordinator
SUNNY
Office Dog
OUR CLIENTS ARE OUR PARTNERS
We believe in partnership, not just projects. Over the years, we have developed many long-standing relationships that have resulted in successful visual merchandising execution.
BECOME A ZEN
ZenGenius is more than a job; it’s a state of mind. Our passion runs deep. If you want to share your creative gifts with the world and make an impact for the greater good, check out open opportunities or just submit your resume.
ZenGenius is a proud member oF
The NGLCC is the business voice of the LGBT community, the largest advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBT people, and the exclusive certifying body for LGBT-owned businesses.
