Ferndale-based video production company receives national recognition

Heather Zara believes in well-told stories as a catalyst for positive change.

The founder of the full-service video production studio Zara Creative has been rewarded in her approach, netting high-profile clients such as the Detroit Pistons, Bell’s Brewery, and the Kresge Foundation. And this since launching publicly in January 2012.

What’s more, Zara says that the company has never had to seek out clients, that they, and even the biggest of brands, have sought out Zara Creative.

Zara Creative recently celebrated a milestone. The Ferndale-based company has received national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Great Lakes Women's Business Council Certification Committee, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.

"One of the reasons we’re excited about the certification is that, while we’ve grown organically, now we get to see how many more opportunities become available to us," Zara says.

"It also shows young women that they can do whatever they want. We can be that inspiration."

Zara, a former reporter for Local 4 News on WDIV, began the company seven years ago as she watched one friend after another make their wedding announcements. But what started as a wedding video services company soon became Zara Creative, building relationships with clients in the sports and entertainment, food and beverage, and travel and experience industries.

And though Zara Creative hasn’t had to seek out clients, that doesn’t mean the company operates without purpose. Zara says that the brands she works with reflect her own company’s values, clients that want to make the world a better place.

After several years in Troy, Zara Creative is nearing its one year anniversary of their relocation to Ferndale, another important milestone for the company.

"We wanted to move to Ferndale because a big part of our focus in attracting top talent is that we wanted a place that was more creative," Zara says.

"Ferndale is a place where our team can have some fun."

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