Today we’d like to introduce you to Merit Lee.
Hi Merit, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I moved to California in 1990 and was working as a model for Levi’s and doing restaurant reviews for CitySeach. Soon after I started a doing a radio show called the Wine Authority.
In 1996, I embarked on an ambitious journey to establish my business, Digital Design Solutions Inc., against the backdrop of the vibrant tech boom in San Francisco.
Initially, I pursued a degree in English, aspiring to become a writer. My experience writing restaurant reviews and contributing articles to national magazines fueled my passion for storytelling. However, a friend’s advice shifted my focus: instead of sticking to English, I should embrace the burgeoning field of multimedia.
At San Francisco State University, I enrolled in a newly launched Internet technology and design course, just as the Internet was beginning to take shape. The excitement was palpable; I vividly remember attending Netscape’s launch party and learning Photoshop from one of its founders. Upon graduation, the demand for websites was skyrocketing, as few businesses had an online presence.
What began as a one-person venture gradually expanded as I welcomed more talented individuals to join my team. We pioneered search engine optimization and social media strategies long before they became mainstream, and we ventured into e-commerce when the concept was still in its infancy—well before platforms like Shopify existed. Our relationships with businesses across the country flourished, including a collaboration with Stellar Solutions, a women-owned aerospace firm. One of my proudest achievements was creating a poster signed by scientists that was launched into space with one of their satellites.
Over the years, I’ve nurtured my company into a thriving establishment that has developed over 350 websites. Today, I lead a dedicated team of 14 professionals, serving clients nationwide while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of St. Augustine.
Digital Design Solutions Inc. has evolved into a full-service web design and digital marketing agency, offering comprehensive solutions from logo and branding creation to website design and e-commerce development. Once our clients’ sites go live, we assist them in enhancing their online visibility through social media, advertising, search engine optimization, and pay-per-click strategies.
Last year, I had the honor of being recognized by “Who’s Who in America,” a testament to the hard work and dedication that have shaped my business over the years. As I reflect on this journey, I am immensely proud of what we have built and excited for the future ahead.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Throughout our journey, we have navigated significant challenges, including the tech collapse of 2000 etc. by remaining adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of our customers. We have not only preserved but have also played a crucial role in helping them survive and thrive during these trying times.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Digital Design Solutions?
At our full-service web design and digital marketing company, we pride ourselves on the quality of the sites we build. No cookie-cutter websites here. What truly sets us apart is our commitment to understanding our clients’ unique stories and visions. We take the time to listen, ensuring that each website we create authentically reflects their brand rather than being a hastily assembled template.
One of our greatest points of pride is the quality of our work and the strong relationships we cultivate with our clients. We have one client, the owner of Bobo Steakhouse, who has been with us for 30 years.
This long-standing partnership exemplifies our belief that we don’t just build websites; we build lasting relationships.
Additionally, I am incredibly proud of the talented team we have built, which is dedicated to delivering exceptional results and fostering meaningful connections.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I met my husband in New York City. We performed comedy together, with me as his straight person. We were known as Ketchup and Caviar.
We just celebrated our 40th anniversary together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.digitaldesignsolutions.co
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/digitaldesignsolutions.co/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/digitaldesignsolutionsinc/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@digitaldesignsolutionsinc.7753
