May 11, 2021

Celebrating 10 Years of MPMG!

Ten years ago a big, audacious idea was hatched: Laura dreamed of an agency exclusively dedicated to supporting and celebrating artistic endeavours + creative industries.

From its spare bedroom in Laura’s Kits condo, we were swept on an unforgettable journey. We have had our minds and lives changed by profound works of art; built teams + community across the country; and kindled forever friendships with our roster of loyal clients and supportive colleagues.

In celebration, here are some of our favourite memories and most valuable lessons learned over the past decade.

We hope you enjoy this look back on ten years. And we look forward to continuing the next ten together.

Laura Murray

One of your earliest LMPR/MPMG memories.

The jump from my home office (Brian and I working back-to-back in my spare bedroom during LMPR days) to a “real” office with six team members during the first three years of operation. It was such an exciting and overwhelming time of growth, discovery and opportunity.

MPMG’s offices over the past decade

A company milestone that was particularly special to you.

There are more than a few milestones that stand out throughout the past decade, but if I had to pick just one it would be working on the show Brodsky and Baryshnikov in Toronto, and then having the opportunity to meet one of my all-time dance idols – the legendary Mikhail Baryshinikov on opening night. Definitely a pinch me moment.

One of the most valuable things you’ve learned over the past decade.

To trust my gut.

One of your favourite memories from an MPMG team celebration or client event.

Every epic Christmas party.

Some epic MPMG Christmas parties throughout the ages

What have you loved most about working in the arts, culture and creative industries over the past decade?

The collaboration, the creativity, and the community.

What are you most looking forward to as MPMG enters this new phase?

COVID forced me not only to slow down but to reflect upon the next chapter of MPMG. I’m learning to embrace the uncertainty and to take it day-by-day. I trust there will be greater adventures ahead!

MPMG’s first-ever campaign in 2011; Laura is named Business in Vancouver’s 40 Under 40; MPMG is voted Van’s Best Public Relations firm in the Straight three years in a row; MPMG wins a BIV Western Canadian Marketing + PR Award for Best Use of Digital Ads

Brian Paterson

One of your earliest LMPR/MPMG memories.

Walking into the home office on my first day, there was a sign over my computer stating ‘Welcome Brian ~ We’re Glad You’re Here!’ I still have it to this day.

A company milestone that was particularly special to you.

The first time I ever saw Shakespeare in performance was a school trip to see Bard on the Beach. It ignited a lifelong love of Shakespeare’s work and was formative in the trajectory that would see me pursue acting. Beginning to work with them as a client brought this full circle – and gave the opportunity to promote and celebrate something that was foundational in my own life.

Attending TUTS + Bard on the Beach; MPMG opens its first TO office

One of the most valuable things you’ve learned over the past decade.

To dream audaciously and ambitiously, but always be guided by your internal compass while doing so.

One of your favourite memories from an MPMG staff celebration or client event.

The Christmas after parties. Going back to an office that had been transformed into a winter wonderland for hours of dancing, karaoke, and laughter were magical times.

The big-thinking, wine-sipping, arts-loving MPMG Team over the years

What have you loved most about working in the arts, culture and creative industries over the past decade?

Knowing we are part of something that is fundamentally good. I believe the arts are our best tool to build empathy, discourse, and understanding – and that these qualities have only become more needed throughout society over these past 10 years.

What are you most looking forward to as MPMG enters this new phase?

To seeing familiar faces and smiles across a lobby. To that blissful time when we can gather again as a community.