Our story
Why we started
Haute eLeMent.
✦ Bold brands. Elevated marketing.
Haute eLeMent is a female-owned branding, design, social media, marketing, and web design studio in Terre Haute, Indiana. We help businesses show up, stand out, and stop playing small.
We started Haute eLeMent because we kept seeing the same problem. Most small businesses hire a logo person, a website person, and a social media person. Then nothing matches. Your business has enough to keep up with. You shouldn't have to find three different people to make it all look good, too.
So we do all three, so it does. One team, one look, and bold, elevated marketing for businesses in Terre Haute, Paris, Rockville, Greencastle, Marshall, and beyond.
Meet the owners
The faces behind the brand.
Co-owner
Lara Skaggs
Hi, I’m Lara! I’m a marketer, business owner, mom, and a self-proclaimed chaos coordinator who loves turning big ideas into something even bigger!
I have a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Business Administration, along with a background in social media management, branding, and marketing strategy. I’ve always had a creative side, but what I really love is helping businesses find their voice, tell their story, and bring their ideas to life.
Outside of Haute eLeMent, I’m also the co-owner of Extreme XC Racing, a local cross-country ATV and dirt bike racing series. Between running two businesses and being a mom to my sweet daughter, Hadley, life is rarely quiet, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
When I’m not working on a new project, you’ll probably find me at a racetrack, spending time with my family, chasing around our two golden retrievers, or enjoying a much-needed cup of coffee.
As a small business owner myself, I know just how much heart, time, and hard work goes into building something of your own. That’s a huge part of why Haute eLeMent means so much to me. I love getting to work with other business owners, hear their stories, and help them build brands they’re genuinely proud of!
Co-owner · Web & Graphic Design
Melissa Schneider
Hi, I’m Melissa! I’m a designer, bakery owner, former teacher, and creative at heart who loves turning ideas into designs that help businesses stand out!
After spending time in the classroom, I decided to follow my creative side into a new career. I earned my UI and Front-End Developer certifications and dove into the world of design, where I get to combine creativity with problem-solving to bring ideas to life. At Haute eLeMent, I work on everything from website design and logos to graphic design, social media graphics, and templates that help businesses show up with confidence and style.
Outside of Haute eLeMent, I also own a bakery, so I know firsthand that running a small business is equal parts passion, hard work, creativity, and figuring things out as you go! That experience gives me a special appreciation for the people behind the businesses we work with and the heart they put into building something of their own.
When I’m not designing or baking up something sweet, you’ll probably find me working out, getting lost in a good book, or enjoying a well-earned nap. I’m also mom to three amazing adult daughters who have somehow grown into some of my favorite people to spend time with. Getting everyone’s schedules to line up for family time might be a project of its own, but it’s always worth it!
One of my favorite things about Haute eLeMent is getting to work with other business owners who are passionate about what they do. I love helping them turn their ideas into something tangible, build a brand that feels like them, and create designs they’re excited to share with the world!
What we believe
The Haute way.
Five things you can count on when you work with us.
01
Bold by design
We don't do beige. Every brand we build is made to be noticed and remembered.
02
One team, one look
Branding, web, and social from the same studio, so every piece matches.
03
Priced for here
Rates built for the Wabash Valley, typically 20–30% below national agencies.
04
You own it all
Your domain, hosting, and website are registered in your name. Always.
05
Plain English
No jargon and no surprise invoices. A written quote before any work begins.
Proudly serving
The Wabash Valley and beyond.
Terre Haute, IN
Paris, IL
Rockville, IN
Greencastle, IN
Marshall, IL
eLeMent
Let's talk
Your brand, elevated.
Book a free 20-minute discovery call. We'll talk through your goals, recommend the right package, and send a written quote within 24 hours.