Our History
2002
School Daze
The Emergent
In 2002, the seeds of Wild Monkey were sown in a computer science classroom at Justin Ford Kimball High School in sunny Oak Cliff. Here, Mr. Dariet McDuff, our first mentor, introduced Henry (then a senior) and Ariel (a freshman) to the world of coding and design. It was in this classroom that they learned the importance of “no bullshit please”—the foundation of our forward-thinking, authentic, and scrappy approach to art and tech.
2016
Wild Monkey Deisgn Logo circa 2016
Grand Start
The Emergent
Wild Monkey was officially born in a garage in Grand Junction in 2016. Our founders started by designing logos for friends and family, handing out flyers to local businesses, and believing in their future. We registered as an LLC on Henry’s birthday, a symbolic gesture of new beginnings. With guidance from Chris Do, we learned business fundamentals, client negotiations, and the importance of setting and achieving goals. His mentorship helped us overcome imposter syndrome and set us on the path to success.
Our Why
2017
First Flag
Fish don’t fry in the kitchen,
2017 was a milestone year for Wild Monkey. We acquired our first office space, introduced KICS the Monkey mascot (representing our kids), and partnered with the Mesa County Workforce Center to provide creative career opportunities for local youth.
Our notable projects included branding the Kindness is Contagious (KIC) kids, Encompass, Western, DAG, Core Health Solutions, and 750 Main. These were the good times, filled with bartering, community connections, and solidifying our presence.
Memories
2018
Growing Up
Beans don’t burn on the grill.
In 2018, we moved into a larger office space, produced our first video, and hired our developer, Josh. Joining the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce and receiving mentorship from Douglas Davis further propelled our growth. Davis taught us to lean into strategy and structure. Notable projects from this era included Jardin, Chris Kennedy for CO, Targett & Associates, and Design Perspectives.
Notable Projects
Special Delivery from Ariel
2019
Partners
The Ace Up Our Sleeve
2019 marked a significant transition for Wild Monkey. We moved to Dallas, TX, and established a partnership with Ariel Aaron Davis, affectionately known as “Ace.” Her new ideas and mental clarity brought a fresh perspective to the company.
We expanded into digital media buying and welcomed a new baby into the family. Our notable projects included Brand New Med, Henderson Chicken, Chopped Up Coccina, and Shop JWT. Mentorship from Gordon Edwards guided us to work on the business, not just in it, fostering strategic connections and innovation.
Notable Projects
2020
Covid Era
Where’s The TP?
The pandemic in 2020 brought uncertainty and scarcity, but it also focused us on what truly matters. With a newborn at home and a brand recalibration underway, we navigated these chaotic times with resilience. We welcomed Stark the shepherd, our service animal, and grounded ourselves in the importance of community and family. Our notable project during this period was Mobility Driven.
Notable Projects
2021
The Bounce Back
Living + Learning + Loving
2021 was a year of recovery and adaptation. We applied hard-learned lessons from the pandemic, taking “messy action” and learning along the way. This period was about getting back on our feet, integrating corporate learnings, and preparing for a new era of growth.
Accomplishments
2022 – Present
Fresh In Frisco
Welcome to New Dallas.
Since relocating to Frisco, TX, in 2022, Wild Monkey has continued to thrive. We became members of the Frisco Chamber of Commerce, achieved SDVOSB certification, and expanded into government contracting. Our company rebranding incorporated our lean into digital marketing, and we formed strong partnerships with fabricators, photographers, and videographers. All these milestones are part of our ongoing creative journey, blending our passion for design and marketing with our love for family and authenticity.