Tiecen Payne
I'm a marketing strategy consultant and fractional CMO specializing in branding, digital transformation, and generative AI. My tone is a funny, casual, and intelligent thought leader.
Tiecen (Ty-sen) Payne is an accomplished marketing strategist and creative leader with a proven track record of helping brands grow, connect, and thrive in today’s fast-changing digital landscape. As the founder of Smart Start Marketing, Tiecen has built a reputation for blending data-driven strategy with bold, imaginative content that resonates deeply with audiences and drives measurable results.
With an impressive portfolio spanning industries and disciplines, Tiecen has mastered the art of crafting compelling brand stories and integrated campaigns. Whether designing innovative digital experiences, refining brand identities, or creating high-impact messaging, her work consistently delivers on both creativity and performance. Smart Start Marketing’s projects reflect a deep understanding of what it takes to not only capture attention but inspire action.
A strong differentiator for Tiecen is her ability to leverage generative AI to elevate marketing and content creation. As an early adopter of this cutting-edge technology, Tiecen has honed the skill of writing precise, creative prompts that maximize the potential of AI tools, resulting in content that feels fresh, tailored, and human. Her expertise bridges the gap between emerging technologies and timeless marketing principles, offering clients the best of both worlds: innovation grounded in strategic thinking.
As a practiced businesswoman and adviser, Tiecen is passionate about fostering opportunities and creating spaces for women to excel. A staunch advocate for mentorship and collaboration, she dedicates time to supporting and uplifting other women in her professional journeys, helping them build the confidence and skills to thrive in competitive industries. Tiecen believes that when women support each other, businesses and communities grow stronger, and her work reflects that commitment.
A sought-after speaker and consultant, Tiecen brings a thoughtful yet approachable style to every stage and conversation. Known for her sharp insights, relatable anecdotes, and a touch of humor, she breaks down complex concepts into actionable strategies that empower brands to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. From AI-powered content to human-centered branding, Tiecen is deeply committed to helping businesses stay ahead in a constantly evolving marketplace.
Whether working with global enterprises or startups, Tiecen approaches every challenge with the same dedication, curiosity, and drive to deliver transformative results. Her passion for marketing is matched only by her enthusiasm for the power of storytelling and technology to create lasting impact.
Client Reviews
I worked with Tiecen on marketing, branding, and positioning for my company, Verisage Custom Software. She is a joy to work with - an excellent marketer and a natural teacher. She was expertly assertive with what she knows and willing to learn about my business and strategy, applying what she learned to our marketing.
In short, I would hire her again in an instant.
-Guy Harding, Verisage Custom Software
Tiecen was BY FAR, the best marketing experience I have ever had. She is an excellent communicator. I never once felt like I was in the dark. She took me along the journey to accomplish my goal and made me feel like part of the process.
Tiecen was the first marketing person that made me feel like they actually understood my product and cared about the success of the campaign that she put together. She tells a story, beautifully. She definitely has a gift.
I can't say enough good about my experience with Tiecen. I would HIGHLY recommend her for any marketing/strategy/growth initiatives.
-Joe Tanner, Clicked Connections
Tiecen is a true wordsmith! Her ability to create the right message at the right time not only attracts the right customer but, retains them and builds loyalty along the way. Her messaging strategies allow for clear and concise content that hits right on the mark.
It was such a pleasure working with her and she was always quick to respond, very dependable and has excellent communication skills. You can easily see that she values relationships with her coworkers and the partners she works with.
-Megan Lang, Brand Strategist
Tiecen (Ty-sen) Payne is an accomplished marketing strategist and creative leader with a proven track record of helping brands grow, connect, and thrive in today’s fast-changing digital landscape. As the founder of Smart Start Marketing, Tiecen has built a reputation for blending data-driven strategy with bold, imaginative content that resonates deeply with audiences and drives measurable results.
With an impressive portfolio spanning industries and disciplines, Tiecen has mastered the art of crafting compelling brand stories and integrated campaigns. Whether designing innovative digital experiences, refining brand identities, or creating high-impact messaging, her work consistently delivers on both creativity and performance. Smart Start Marketing’s projects reflect a deep understanding of what it takes to not only capture attention but inspire action.
A strong differentiator for Tiecen is her ability to leverage generative AI to elevate marketing and content creation. As an early adopter of this cutting-edge technology, Tiecen has honed the skill of writing precise, creative prompts that maximize the potential of AI tools, resulting in content that feels fresh, tailored, and human. Her expertise bridges the gap between emerging technologies and timeless marketing principles, offering clients the best of both worlds: innovation grounded in strategic thinking.
As a practiced businesswoman and adviser, Tiecen is passionate about fostering opportunities and creating spaces for women to excel. A staunch advocate for mentorship and collaboration, she dedicates time to supporting and uplifting other women in her professional journeys, helping them build the confidence and skills to thrive in competitive industries. Tiecen believes that when women support each other, businesses and communities grow stronger, and her work reflects that commitment.
A sought-after speaker and consultant, Tiecen brings a thoughtful yet approachable style to every stage and conversation. Known for her sharp insights, relatable anecdotes, and a touch of humor, she breaks down complex concepts into actionable strategies that empower brands to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. From AI-powered content to human-centered branding, Tiecen is deeply committed to helping businesses stay ahead in a constantly evolving marketplace.
Whether working with global enterprises or startups, Tiecen approaches every challenge with the same dedication, curiosity, and drive to deliver transformative results. Her passion for marketing is matched only by her enthusiasm for the power of storytelling and technology to create lasting impact.
Client Reviews
I worked with Tiecen on marketing, branding, and positioning for my company, Verisage Custom Software. She is a joy to work with - an excellent marketer and a natural teacher. She was expertly assertive with what she knows and willing to learn about my business and strategy, applying what she learned to our marketing.
In short, I would hire her again in an instant.
-Guy Harding, Verisage Custom Software
Tiecen was BY FAR, the best marketing experience I have ever had. She is an excellent communicator. I never once felt like I was in the dark. She took me along the journey to accomplish my goal and made me feel like part of the process.
Tiecen was the first marketing person that made me feel like they actually understood my product and cared about the success of the campaign that she put together. She tells a story, beautifully. She definitely has a gift.
I can't say enough good about my experience with Tiecen. I would HIGHLY recommend her for any marketing/strategy/growth initiatives.
-Joe Tanner, Clicked Connections
Tiecen is a true wordsmith! Her ability to create the right message at the right time not only attracts the right customer but, retains them and builds loyalty along the way. Her messaging strategies allow for clear and concise content that hits right on the mark.
It was such a pleasure working with her and she was always quick to respond, very dependable and has excellent communication skills. You can easily see that she values relationships with her coworkers and the partners she works with.
-Megan Lang, Brand Strategist
