Why We Exist

Welcome!

I’m Jess Lomasson, a Creative Director in NYC and founder of Make Ads With Me. The number one question people trying to break into the industry ask me is, how do I make a portfolio without experience? And once I tell them to make fake ads (aka spec work), the number two question is, how do I do this alone?

The answer is, you don’t do it alone. And if you don’t go to portfolio school, figuring out what the heck goes in a portfolio, and who to make one with, isn’t easy—so I’m hoping this website can make it easier to figure out both of these things. By providing accessible information and resources, my goal is to help level the playing field for those who don’t have the means to go to portfolio school — in turn creating a funnel to diversify our industry as a whole.

So why should you listen to me? Good question. If you’ve already googled me to see if my advice is worth taking, first of all, I’m flattered. Second of all, I hope all my myspace pictures are gone from the inter-webs. But in all seriousness, you might have discovered I’m not the world’s most awarded creative out there. You might even be thinking my career doesn’t reflect the one you’re hoping for. And if you really dug deep, you might have found this mediocre review of a play I once starred in.

So if you’re unimpressed by me, good—I’m glad you’re here. This website is intended to make you better than me by connecting you with the resources and partners necessary to create a portfolio that represents your full potential. Something I wish I had.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m really good at my job and am super proud of what I’ve achieved—but my path was rocky. So I’m hoping I can make all of yours a bit smoother by sharing the things I’ve learned along the way.

So now go on and find a partner to start creating beautiful things with. Then get a job at a dope place. Then remember the little people like me when I’m asking you for a referral- jk but not really.