We’re a tight-knit team of creatives, strategists, and digital builders who believe great marketing feels as natural as a good conversation. At Commune, collaboration is in our DNA—we mix sharp strategy with fresh creativity to bring brands to life in a way that feels effortless and real. A crew that loves what we do and does it well.
We are a queer-owned and operated agency, passionate about creating inclusive and meaningful connections in everything we do. Our diverse perspective is what drives our creativity, and we’re proud to be part of a vibrant and inclusive community.
Inclusivity Above All: We welcome all walks of life, and our work reflects that. We’re queer-owned, and we stand by the power of diversity in every project we take on. Every voice matters, every perspective is valued, and every idea has the potential to change the game.
We don’t do ordinary. Our creativity knows no limits. We think outside the box, break the rules, and bring fresh, innovative solutions to everything we touch. Whether it’s a campaign or a website, we aim to leave a lasting impact.
While we love to keep things chill, we never lose sight of the big picture. We bring a sophisticated, professional approach to every project, without compromising the fun, lighthearted energy that makes our team who we are. We’ve got the skills to back it up.
We believe in building a community where everyone rises together. We’re not about competing with others—we’re about collaborating, uplifting, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. When you thrive, we thrive.
We care about more than just profits. We’re committed to supporting causes that matter, making conscious decisions that positively impact the world, and using our platform to advocate for change. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s part of the fabric of who we are.
We don’t do fluff. We believe in realness, honesty, and transparency. We’re proud of who we are, and we’re proud of the work we create. Everything we do comes from a place of genuine passion and authenticity.
The definition of a people person. Jess considers her genuine interest in people her secret weapon in the digital world. Jess utilizes her ability to bring community and technology together to help businesses of all sizes thrive. Hotel & Hospitality groups, business associations, real estate investors, designers, builders and contractors all call Commune home. Commune specializes in curating companies’ digital presences to drive brand and growth.
Before founding Commune in 2020, Jess was San Diego based digital marketing agency Taylor & Pond’s Senior Account Manager turned Creative Director working with international beauty brands like Wet ’n Wild, Bio Oil + Ardell Beauty before moving into hospitality working alongside Tracy Borkum, original hospitality it-girl and principal of Urban Kitchen Group, as Marketing + Social Media Director.
Born and raised in San Diego with over 25 years in the restaurant industry, Gracie is an expert in her field when it comes to the running and marketing of a restaurant as well as building strong relationships within the San Diego culinary community. Well-connected and full of innovation, Gracie thrives in staying on top of changes and trends in the hospitality and tech industries, making her the ultimate secret weapon in social media.
Before founding Commune in 2020, Gracie worked alongside Tracy Borkum, original hospitality it-girl and principal of Urban Kitchen Group, opening CUCINA sorella in the beloved San Diego community of Kensington as General Manager. In 2019, CUCINA sorella was honored the prestigious Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand and Gracie was awarded the first annual XBorder Champs Award, presented by Mexican Consul General, Ambassador Marcela Celorio and Chef Javier Plascencia.
Eric is a seasoned digital marketing professional with over 20 years of experience, with a focus on e-commerce, website management, and Google Ads strategy. A native of San Diego, he prides himself on helping local businesses thrive. He currently leads initiatives to optimize digital performance and drive online growth.
With a career rooted in data-driven marketing, Eric specializes in enhancing user experience, increasing conversion rates, and leveraging paid media to achieve measurable business outcomes. An SDSU alumni, his expertise spans cross-functional collaboration, digital strategy development, and the implementation of scalable marketing solutions tailored to diverse client needs.
Eric’s professional approach combines technical proficiency with creative problem-solving, making him a valuable asset to organizations aiming to strengthen their digital presence and e-commerce capabilities.
Mel Studied at Portland State University for Graphic Design and has Loved art and drawing since she was a kid. heavily inspired by Studio Ghibli, anime movies and tv shows, the band Gorillaz, artwork by Jamie Hewlett and other various media and cinematography mainstays. Constantly told to stop drawing in the margins of math tests, mel parlayed a hobby into a career now creating social media and digital marketing content on Illustrator, Photoshop + Procreate and growing her account management experience under the tutelage of commune founder, jess valtierra. Currently Following character and background concept artists on insta, reading fantasy fiction, watching movies while painting, listening to music on her headphones on blast, enjoying architecture, vintage finds, calm moments, pasta, and candles. Mel Is a proud cat mom.
