Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandon Townsel.
Hi Brandon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
The Brilliant Beginning
It’s funny how Brilliant Touch got its start—because at the time, I didn’t realize I was building a business at all. I just knew I had an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to create. Back in high school in Flint, Michigan, I was simply trying to make a little extra lunch money, selling CDs here and there. What I didn’t know then was that those small hustles were the earliest signs of a much bigger journey.
Originally, I planned to become a forensic photographer. As a Flint native with a strong interest in investigation and storytelling, it felt like the perfect fit. During my junior year, I enrolled in a forensic science class, and by senior year I signed up for photography to build a foundation in the field. That decision changed everything. In that class, I learned how to use Photoshop—and for the first time, I saw how creativity and technical skill could intersect.
I designed my own open house invitation, which quickly turned into designing invitations for friends. What started as a favor soon became a pattern. In college, I joined a fraternity and naturally became the go-to person for graphic design. Before long, I was creating materials not just for my chapter, but for several other student organizations as well. What began as a hobby had quietly evolved into a reliable second gig.
After graduating, I accepted a position at a community college, where I handled much of the graphic work for my department. Despite doing professional-level design work daily, I had only taken two formal design classes—by choice. First, because I knew I needed to master industry tools to grow in the field. Second, because those classes were free since I worked for the college (a perk I definitely didn’t take for granted).
My career took a pivotal turn when I was invited to sit on a subcommittee focused on closing the achievement gap. At the conclusion of that initiative, I designed the final report booklet for the college. The project caught the attention of the marketing directors, opening the door for me to transition into the institution’s marketing department.
After a few years in marketing, I was asked to serve on another selection committee—this time to help choose the college’s agency of record. Sitting in on agency presentations was eye-opening. I saw firsthand the breadth of services being offered—and the price tags attached to them. I remember thinking, I do this every day. The difference wasn’t talent or output—it was positioning and business knowledge. That realization humbled me and pushed me to deepen my understanding of the business side of creative work.
In 2015, I officially rebranded and launched Brilliant Touch—a name inspired by both the nature of the work and my initials, BT (Brandon Townsel). During the early years, I focused heavily on serving faith-based organizations and nonprofits while continuing to sharpen my craft.
In 2019, life presented another opportunity. My girlfriend—now my wife—began her residency in Jacksonville, Florida. I didn’t hesitate. I traded Michigan winters for Florida sand and sunshine. The college I worked for contracted me to continue remotely, becoming my third official client, and I made the move south.
Interestingly, for a while, I had more clients in Michigan than Jacksonville. But momentum builds when consistency meets opportunity. In 2021, Brilliant Touch officially became an LLC and underwent a soft rebrand, introducing a refined color scheme and clearer brand identity.
Today, Brilliant Touch continues to grow steadily in Jacksonville, providing creative services for music and vendor festivals, organizational galas, and community events. Our offerings have expanded to include promotional merchandise, website services, and—beginning this year—videography.
Brilliant Touch is built on growth, adaptability, and a commitment to helping clients elevate their vision. If you have a major event coming up and want to make it truly brilliant, we’re ready to help take your brand—and your experience—to the next level.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. A big part of the journey has been learning my worth and truly understanding the value I bring to the table. I’ve had to learn the importance of servicing the right clientele and setting boundaries.
Another challenge has been wearing many hats—being the graphic designer, web designer, accountant, secretary, and photographer all at once (and yes, sometimes all in the same day). Those experiences, though challenging, helped shape my growth as both a creative and a business owner.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Brilliant Touch Graphic Design & Marketing is a full-service creative agency specializing in branding development and brand management. We help businesses bring their vision to life through strategic design and marketing solutions that are both visually impactful and results-driven. Our services range from print collateral and promotional merchandise to innovative digital branding strategies, all tailored to help our clients stand out in competitive markets.
With a presence in Florida and Michigan, and serving clients throughout the Midwest, we are known for creating cohesive, on-brand experiences that drive growth, engagement, and long-term brand recognition.
One of the projects we are most proud of is producing our first golf campaign in Atlanta. From concept to execution, we handled every element of the campaign—including the sales deck, website registration, promotional signage, branded merchandise, photography, and videography. This project truly showcased what sets us apart: our ability to manage an entire brand experience under one roof while maintaining consistency, creativity, and attention to detail.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The most important qualities contributing to my success are maintaining a positive attitude, being personable and relatable, and consistently following through. I believe strong relationships are built on trust and communication, and showing up with optimism and reliability allows me to connect with clients on a real level while delivering results they can depend on.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brillianttouchgd.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brillianttouchgd?igsh=MWZlMG9oaHp6ZGN0ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrilliantTouchGD
