The Brand Refresh Lab: Build Clarity. Create Momentum.

• Workshop Room 1

With over two decades of experience in branding and design, Calvin B Jackson II is the founder and creative force behind The Lemon Ad Stand, a Chicago-based agency helping businesses communicate with clarity, creativity, and purpose. A graduate of Dominican University with a BA in Design and a minor in Fine Arts, Calvin blends artistic intuition with strategic insight to build brands that stand out and stand the test of time.

As a creator, storyteller, and solutions strategist, Calvin has led dynamic creative teams and partnered with some of the world’s most recognized brands. Grounded in faith, confidence, and hard work, he now leads his own team of Squeezers, dedicated to crafting impactful solutions that inspire action and drive growth.

When speaking to business owners, Calvin brings the zest with real-world experience, actionable strategy, and a genuine passion for helping others turn their vision into impact.

Calvin lives in Chicago with his wife, two children and chocolate Labrador, Peanut Butter. During his quiet moments, he is an abstract painter, star gazer, swimmer, mediator and Old Fashioneds connoisseur.

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Calvin Jackson Verizon

Calvin and Vanessa Jackson, the heart and soul behind The Lemon Ad Stand, have woven their lives and careers into a vivid narrative of creativity, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. This duo, bound by mutual ambition and marriage, has created more than just a creative marketing agency; they've brought to life a realm where imagination meets purpose, inspired by The Stand’s mission to help you make the world sweeter. As a creator, storyteller, and solutions strategist, Calvin has led dynamic creative teams and partnered with some of the world’s most recognized brands. Grounded in faith, confidence, and hard work, he now leads his own team of Squeezers, dedicated to crafting impact
Calvin and Vanessa Jackson, the heart and soul behind The Lemon Ad Stand, have woven their lives and careers into a vivid narrative of creativity, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. This duo, bound by mutual ambition and marriage, has created more than just a creative marketing agency; they've brought to life a realm where imagination meets purpose, inspired by The Stand’s mission to help you make the world sweeter. As a creator, storyteller, and solutions strategist, Calvin has led dynamic creative teams and partnered with some of the world’s most recognized brands. Grounded in faith, confidence, and hard work, he now leads his own team of Squeezers, dedicated to crafting impactful solutions that inspire action and drive growth. Vanessa, initially reluctant to leave the predictability of corporate America, found her niche within the charm (and chaos) of entrepreneurial life. Armed with an MBA in Marketing and years of corporate experience, she now serves as VP of Marketing & Operations, merging her lifelong love for storytelling with her flair for engaging communication. Together, Calvin and Vanessa exemplify the fusion of diverse talents and visions, driving The Lemon Ad Stand forward. Their story is not just about business success but about how complementary skills and shared dreams can craft a legacy, create a joyful company culture and make life’s journey both sweet, memorable & impactful.
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