Sparkhouse

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the marketing manager for a tutoring company. We provide academic assistance in all subjects for students of all ages and ability levels.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

We hired Sparkhouse to film three short commercials for placements on TV and streaming channels. Our goal was to highlight a selection of stressful scenarios that parents encounter with their kids.

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We called several production companies—both in-state and out—before landing on Sparkhouse. We chose them based on their portfolio, their willingness to find creative ways to turn our ideas into reality, and their competitive price.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

The process began with a discovery/creative meeting where we were able to work through a few of our ideas, followed by some back and forth to refine the storyline. From there, they provided a storyboard that gave us a great visual understanding of how the commercials would be shot. Sparkhouse made the casting process very easy.

After understanding the parameters we were looking for, they vetted a huge selection of auditions to present us with the best of the best for us to make a final selection. Our shoot took place in two locations, and they managed the cast and crew with excellent efficiency. We were able to participate in the shoot for the entirety, offering our input and approval on each take.

Each crew member we encountered was kind, accommodating, and professional. The post-production process went smoothly as well. After submitting a few rough cuts to work through the story, they polished the finer elements of the cut such as color and audio.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Torrey Tayenaka was our primary point of contact. He provided EXCELLENT communication, and always seemed to have the perfect solution to any of our concerns. We also worked closely with Aman Suri and Sruthi Alagammai during the shoot.

They were very easy to work with it was clear that they were as invested in the project as we were. They were always in control of the situation, patient, and friendly. Each judgment call they made or idea they suggested was a winner...it was impressive.

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We haven't gone live with these yet, but we couldn't be happier with the results. The commercials will be the best representation of our brand to date. Everyone we've shown these commercials to loved them.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Sparkhouse used a number of communication tools to streamline the process. I loved that they had weekly check-ins to keep everyone on task and inform me of the process. They had visual representations of where we were in the process timeline. For the edits, we used Frame in order to specifically pinpoint edits—no need to list out timecodes.

All in all, their communication and organization was one of the best aspects of working with Sparkhouse.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

There's a lot that impressed me about working about Sparkhouse—their investment in our project, their professionalism, their organization—but the aspect that impressed me the most was their communication. With Sparkhouse, you will always be kept in the loop. Questions are answered quickly and succinctly. We felt like our project was their top priority at all times.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Not at all. We look forward to using them again in the future.

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are a digital design agency and we specialize in 2D&3D animation. I'm at Chief Partnership Officer&Business Development Manager here, I'm responsible for setting up business relationships and preliminary project discussions.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We worked together with Sparkhouse Agency on creating an amazing 3D character animation, which was used for marketing campaigns and on the website to increase awareness and explain the services

How did you select this vendor?

Sparkhouse team was super responsive and always were in touch with us, suggested a lot of amazing ideas for our video, so we decided that they will be the perfect match for us.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

The team produced the script as well as the creative aspect of the project - came up with a super detailed mood board and visual description of the future video. The production overall went very smoothly due to constant communication.

What was the team composition?

We were in touch with Torrey and a few of his colleagues, which were supporting us on different production stages.

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Overall, the whole experience was very positive and it was a great pleasure to collaborate with Sparkhouse team. We believe that the video output is worth it.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The team was using special software to manage projects and make sure we were moving forward timely and with no delays.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

We were impressed with their creativity and prompt and clear communication.

Is there any area for improvement or anything that could have been done differently?

Everything was great!

Please describe your company and your position there.

I was the senior director of marketing communications for a medical device company that was not well-known in the industry.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

Our company was in an area of medical devices that people don't often think about, and are dominated by two other companies. We needed to make a name for ourselves with healthcare professionals and help them understand both the technology we were bringing to market, and what it was like to work with our company.

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We looked at video production companies in and around Southern California that could help us with a number of video needs -- from social media videos to editing to developing a corporate video. We selected three to interview and review and selected Sparkhouse based on talent, capabilities and budgets.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

We started with a discovery meeting with the key players. Sparkhouse then developed a creative brief for review, outlining all of the steps. All work was seamless and easy because Sparkhouse explained everything we needed to do.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Work was incredibly seamless. Sparkhouse walked us through every step of the process and helped us understand how we could improve our video assets. They implemented our feedback quickly and efficiently, producing final videos that were professional and genuine to the company.

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We published the videos through our social media channels and saw a significant increase in engagement with the posts.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

The project manager was on top of every detail and guided us through every step of the process, including reminding us of upcoming deadlines and needs.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They were in this to not just provide a product, but to actually help us solve problems. The work we did was complex and not easy to translate. They were always quick to offer ingenious ideas as to how we could improve the way we communicated about our products through video.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

No. They were delightful to work with.

Please describe your company and your position there.

Senior Graphic Designer and Production Manager for San Diego-based Optios, Inc., a tech startup in the Neuroscience space.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

The goal of this project was to create a 3-5 minute video feature for the Optios Golf MasterMind Program and to aid sales and event staff in the product launch.

1. Explaining how the product works.
2. How the product is used and demonstrate how it is implemented to optimize golf putting performance.
3. Highlight key features and briefly explain the neuroscience behind the Optios Golf hardware and software solution.

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Google search helped to locate Sparkhouse and the selection of their proposal fit our needs, objectives, and our budget.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

Torrey and his team helped us every step of the way. They were extremely professional and worked with us to keep our project on track for the product timeline and to realize all of our objectives.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Worked with Torrey Tayenaka, and his team of project managers, video producers, animators, and editors.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Effective communication through zoom meetings, phone calls, and email.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

The team worked efficiently together to help us realize our project and worked with us to bring our project to life.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Sparkhouse was amazing. I highly recommend their team.

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a marketing analyst at a PR and marketing agency based in Beijing.

What challenge were you trying to address with Sparkhouse?

We needed a video and photoshoot to be processed in the US, so we hired Sparkhouse.

What was the scope of their involvement?

Sparkhouse helped us shoot a video for a governmental campaign. They interviewed the model we had selected. Due to the pandemic, we weren’t able to go to the US to oversee everything, so we communicated with Sparkhouse remotely using Zoom. They let us watch the shoot as it was happening, and they ended up producing a lot of video content for us.

What is the team composition?

There are around 10 people working with us, including the general crew. We mainly speak with the CEO and producer, but I’ve also communicated with the director and another producer from their team.

How did you come to work with Sparkhouse?

We saw their reviews on Clutch and reached out to them.

What is the status of this engagement?

I reached out to them in late May 2021, and the work is still ongoing.

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

We can’t say what the deliverables look like as they are still in the process of being edited, but Sparkhouse has done an excellent job. It’s great that we were able to watch the shoot remotely. They were more than happy to provide the services.

How did Sparkhouse perform from a project management standpoint?

They’re very good, especially in terms of communication. The preparation for the filming and the shoot itself were organized well. We use a very convenient storyboard application called Boords.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Sparkhouse is really good at communicating, responding, and handling feedback. When we were watching the shoot over Zoom and provided feedback through the chat, they were able to process that right away which I think is really impressive.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Communicate constantly with Sparkhouse.

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Managing Director for The Living Plan, a private executive administration firm that provides services similar to those of a family office controller, often picking up where other services leave off. As the Managing Director, I am responsible for the day-to-day operations to serve current clients as well as networking and marketing opportunities to procure new clients and maintain the overall financial stability of our company.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

We hired Sparkhouse to help us create a company intro / overview video that could simply communicate the vast array of services and value we provide our clients. We wanted the video to be informative of the services we can provide clients while also portraying the emotional resistance that some may face when thinking about working with a service like ours. We wanted to pack a big punch in a short amount of time to give viewers the best sense of who we are and what we can do for them.

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We decided to work with Sparkhouse because their pricing, professionalism, and attention to detail and relationship was par none from the start. The owner, Torrey, responded to my inquiry immediately and was involved throughout the whole process. From our first inquiry meeting, I felt like I was working with a professional group that I could trust and the price was right!

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

The entire process was very detailed and well documented. We received weekly emails to check-in and provide an overview of where the project stood throughout the process. At any time, we could reference an online portal that also outlined our place in the process. To start, we had an initial discovery meeting with Torrey and the team. We then worked with them to provide details of our company, visual elements, and general goals for the video. We then worked on a storyboard and script together and were given many opportunities to make edits and corrections as we went.

The team provided visual elements alongside our script, and we also reviewed a number of voiceover actors before choosing the one we wanted. We prepared interview questions for filming, and before production, the team met with our client that would be providing a testimonial to prep her for the types of questions we'd be asking on shoot day. We had a half day of filming, on-site, where we captured our planned shots and so many more! We then went through a few rounds of edits before finalizing everything. It was a detailed, quick, and thorough process that kept us well informed and included throughout.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

We worked with Torrey Tayenaka, the owner, and a team of professionals, including: Jay Mabunga, Project Manager; Tanner Love, Account Manager; Dane Liberatore, Production; and Micah Goldfarb, Production. The feedback process was continuous and immediate. I never had to wait for a response from the team and I received weekly updates at the beginning of each week outside of regular communications.

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Since finishing production, we've shared our video with a few current clients and professional partnered businesses. Past experience with our brand was not always positive, and all that we shared our video with said that it was beyond helpful in clearly communicating our services and potential for serving their clients' needs.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

The project manager and the entire team provided weekly emails on Mondays to give current status on the project and follow-up on any open items. At all times, I could access an online portal which showed exactly where we were in the process. I was also connected directly to all members of the team and never had to wait on a response. At one point in the process, I requested that we talk in more detail, and the team immediately scheduled a Zoom call with me. I really felt like the process was transparent and effective.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

I was most impressed with the diversity in experience and expertise within Sparkhouse. I could tell that each team member provided a unique skill to the creative process, and everyone really took the time to understand our brand and services in order to best communicate them through our video. I was also very impressed with the quality of service we received, the timeliness of project completion, and the quality of finished video compared to the price that we paid. Well worth the money!

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

None! I was very pleased.

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the co-founder of a company which designs and distributes products for the home and develops apps to help users stay organized in their daily lives.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

We are launching a flip-top food storage container along with a partner app on Kickstarter, so we needed an introduction video explaining our products to potential backers. We also planned to post clips to our social media accounts.

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We found this company by searching on google for video production companies which specialized in product launch videos. We reached out to around 5 different agencies and we chose this one due to a combination of a few factors including strong examples of work done for other companies, clear explanations regarding the costs of production, and a personable attitude.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

The video was hosted by an office worker who goes about her day introducing the various features of Sulagan and how they help her throughout her workday. The production process started with a team meeting where we went over the product features and clarified the purpose of the video. After that, they provided a creative brief based on this and the onboarding document we filled out. Then they gave us a choice of two concepts and moved onto the mood board based on our decision. They then wrote the script and upon approval fleshed it out more in the audiovisual script. We could then choose our actress from around 10 different auditions. They then moved on to filming and editing which spanned many different versions and edits.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

We mostly were in contact with the owner of the company. But depending on the which stage we were at we worked directly with who was managing that section. For example, during the script- writing stage we emailed with the writer, during the shooting stage we emailed with the director etc. I found it easy to give feedback via an online document that was viewed by the relevant person.

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

So far the video has helped us show our product to potential customers in a fun way and has helped us gain subscribers to prepare for our product launch.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

They are very organized and were easy to keep track of and communicate with.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

When we weren't 100% sold on the footage from the first round of filming, they found a great solution and we ended up loving the final product.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

I think it would be great if the shot list was shared with the clients, but other than that it was a smooth process.

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Manager of Business Development at Fry Steel. We are a leading metal supplier in the southern California region.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

We worked with Sparkhouse to develop a Marketing video to help expand our reach. It was also to highlight the vast amount of processing equipment Fry Steel has to offer our Customers and Next Day Delivery service.

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We researched for a video production team in the southern California area. After meeting Torrey and his team, we felt they were the best company to help us create our marketing video.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

We started with a discovery meeting. We collaborated on a storyboard and script. Once the script was finalized, we picked out the voiceover actors and set a date for filming. The Sparkhouse team came to our facility and filmed everything in one day. After filming we reviewed different versions and made edits were needed. The overall process was painless and the sparkhouse team helped us along the way.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

We worked with the project manager who helped to keep us on track and assisted us along the way throughout the project.

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We shared the video with our corporate team and fellow subsidiaries. Everyone was pleased with the end result. Since releasing the brand video, we have received several positive feedback form vendors and customers.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

The project manager was easy to work with and provided weekly updates.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They took the time to learn about our business and incorporated key parts of our business in our brand video.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Working with them was very easy. I can't think of any areas to improve on.

Please describe your company and your position there.

My boutique firm handles the social media and marketing for Callahan & Blaine, a top law firm in Orange County, CA.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

The firm's founding partner wanted to build out a YouTube channel. However, we asked for an introduction to the videos that had some humor in it. We wanted the founding partner to appear approachable and speak to his sense of humor - so we decided on a "spoof" video of Magnum PI.

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

I interviewed three different vendors, and it was my meeting with Torrey that made me decide to use their services over the other vendors. Torrey seemed to "get it" and had an "up for anything" attitude - while the other vendors seemed quite reluctant to do anything out-of-the-box.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

The team was very forthcoming and had some great ideas that really added to the video. They were very responsive and the shoot day was actually really fun. They have been very communicative through post-production and the intro video is exactly what we wanted... actually, it's turned out even better!

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Mainly Torrey and Tanner, but the rest of the team has been in copy. They have been very amenable to making changes and updates based on feedback. We really appreciate that.

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We haven't released the final intro on YouTube just yet as there are still a couple of tweaks to be made, but the people who HAVE seen it, absolutely love it!

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

It's been great and super transparent. I'm aware of where they are at in the process every step of the way.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They came to the production day armed with some ideas of their own. They know how to get just the right shots and reactions out of our main client.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Nope - they have been great!

Please describe your company and your position there.

theidlekid is a video production house and I, Ankit Singh am the CEO/Executive producer there.

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse, and what were your goals?

my associate came up to me with Sparkhouse through LinkedIn and we felt that our working style was compatible to theirs after a meeting which is what led us to work together.

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

The project included post-production work such as creating animations and VFX.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

Feedback was provided to us by Torrey & Jay on a weekly basis as we sent our drafts through

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We were able to meet deadlines prior to the last date which boosted our morale as creators, I believe that was progress for us that would help in the long term.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

The managers were easy to get in touch and they've been very patient and kind around the whole scenario which we really appreciate.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What stood out for me was that members of the team were very polite and professional and they made it easy for us to get through the whole process.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Not really. We were overall satisfied working with Sparkhouse and it was a great experience for us