We recently had the chance to connect with Elena Nakhoumovski and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Elena, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I definitely believe in work-life balance and try to do something for myself if I’m able to. Something that’s been helping me find balance and peace in chaos lately is running! It’s a simple habit that can be done anywhere, anytime, and has truly improved my life. As someone who used to hate running, I took on this habit about a year ago, have completed multiple races thus far, and I’ve come to love it. I think anyone can experience the benefits of running if they find a way to enjoy it that works for them.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Elena, the founder of FMA, a modern marketing agency that blends strategic planning with elevated, creative content for businesses. We work with different brands and niches worldwide that want to cultivate a community, create marketing that works now, and get lasting results. After a total of 6 years in the industry and a break to reset, I’m relaunching bigger and better, with a clear focus: helping businesses grow through custom strategy, standout visuals, and content that feels intentional. We don’t believe in anything cookie-cutter. Whether it’s full-service social media, custom content shoots, or local-focused marketing with media and influencers, we help brands connect with the right people.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Who are we really before we go independent into the world? As kids, we’re creative, ambitious, dreamers. I was free spirited, curious, and creative. Even if I wasn’t the best at it all, I loved painting, writing stories and songs, singing, and dancing just for fun. I loved going to the beach and spending time outdoors (without those phones). I believe the world molds us into who we’re expected to be, shaped by our experiences. Lately, I’ve been trying to reconnect with that
care-free version of myself again. I think more people should take on new hobbies and bring back the things they used to love, just because they enjoyed them.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
2023 was a hard year for me, and yes, I almost gave up on my entire business. After building my brand for over 3 years by that point, showing up every single day, I felt like I finally reached my biggest goals! I managed to maintain a great income stream, save money, and even had team members. However, I was still running too many things on my own, eventually leading to burn out. I poured everything I had into the business and forgot about myself. I decided to take a step back for a bit and prioritize my mental and physical health. I took down all my content & website, did not take on new clients for 2 years- till now. That time gave me space to breathe, to reflect, and to remember why I actually started doing what I do. I realized this is still my passion, and I love everything from the planning to the creatives or marketing. Now, being in the industry for over 6 years, I’m relaunching my business stronger, bigger, and better. We’ve continued serving VIP clients behind the scenes during this time, but now we’re ready to help even more amazing businesses grow.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
Trends vs real marketing changes, how do we know which one’s which? As a marketer, I hear this question a lot. Trends? They come and go. You may see a viral way to market something because it’s relevant now, but people will inevitably move on to the next thing, and fast. You can’t reuse the trend strategy over and over. This world is ever evolving, we must always adapt. Same applies to foundational marketing shifts. The way consumers buy now is vastly different than just 5-10 years ago. These changes are always rooted in how people connect and what they relate to. That’s where long term, change-proof strategy lives. If you understand people and are able to adapt, you’ll make a great impact and stand out!
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
That marketing is less about selling and more about understanding people. Their emotions. Their behavior. Their patterns. Being able to put yourself in your customers’ shoes when they stop scrolling, hit ‘add to cart’, or drive down to visit a business.
I’ve had a natural knack for understanding people, human psychology, emotionally-driven decisions, and more my whole life. Possibly from moving around the world so much, adapting, interacting with so many different people. It taught me to read the room before I could even speak the language. To notice what people respond to, what makes them feel seen, and what drives them to act.
That same instinct is at the core of everything I create in marketing. Strategy, visuals, messaging, everything serves a purpose in a bigger picture.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.F1rstlyMarketing.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenamarketinggirl
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/f1rstlymarketing
