Ed Tettemer, co-founder of Red Tettemer, embodies a profound passion for excellence. This dedication permeates every aspect of his agency, from client selection to creative execution. His pursuit of exceptional outcomes is unwavering.
Tettemer’s path was unconventional. He candidly admits, “Never went to college. Dropped out of high school and never looked back.” His education came from hands-on experience at Elkman agency and Earle Palmer Brown.
Growing up in Bucks County, Ed experienced a simple, close-knit family life. His father, a sheriff, and his mother, a secretary, instilled strong values. Ed’s mother, passionate about music and literature, encouraged him to be observant and open-minded, shaping his character.
The Vietnam War dramatically altered his life. His brother’s decision to seek refuge in Canada ostracized the family. This experience profoundly impacted Ed, leading him to leave high school and travel the country.
Eventually, he returned home and began working for the Doylestown Intelligencer, selling ads. He discovered a knack for helping small businesses improve their advertising. He recalls helping a local restaurant, Pete’s Place, stand out by designing a round ad, illustrating his belief in differentiating oneself from the competition.
After four years, Ed transitioned to Center City, joining Elkman Agency. Under the guidance of Jim Block, he honed his copywriting skills. He further developed his expertise at Becker/Kanter, focusing on shopping center advertising. At Earle Palmer Brown, Brian Meridith emphasized the importance of a strong core idea, influencing Ed’s creative process.
In 1996, Ed partnered with Steve Red to establish Red Tettemer, driven by a mission to “Energize our clients and their businesses.” The agency prioritizes creating an enjoyable and stimulating work environment, fostering creativity and innovation. Their office design reflects this ethos with unique features and a focus on employee well-being.
Tettemer considers his partnership with Steve Red his best decision. He values understanding client needs and finding effective solutions. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, reading, and contributing to his local fire company.
When asked about his wishes, Ed expresses a desire to connect more deeply with his employees, invigorate the agency more frequently, and celebrate their successes. A visit to Red Tettemer offers a glimpse into a world fueled by passion and creativity.