Big Spoon Co. has merged with Richmond-based marketing firm Design by E to expand its food and beverage focus to serve additional industries.

The merger now allows Big Spoon Co. to serve clients with a full suite of PR and marketing services -- including strategic planning, social media management, events, media outreach, graphic design, photography, video, and website development. 

Owners Enrique Mendez and Kevin Clay are equal partners in the new venture that will continue to operate as Big Spoon Co. Under the arrangement, Mendez will act as Creative Director and Clay will act as Communications Director. The duo met 15 years ago while studying at Virginia Commonwealth University. 

A seasoned hospitality professional, Clay started Big Spoon Co. in 2013 as a marketing and PR firm for food and beverage brands. Big Spoon Co. has served clients including restaurants, beverage producers, associations, and festivals.

Mendez started Design By E in 2014 specializing in web design and maintenance. His agency quickly grew to provide services to industries including real estate, retail, nonprofits, and home service providers. 

Their combined client portfolio includes Richmond Region Tourism, Virginia Association of Cider Makers, Bookbinder’s Seafood & Steakhouse, Sazerac, Virginia Winery Distribution Company, Midwives for Haiti, Virginia Cliffe Inn, Carytown Merchants Association, Clocktower Realty, and Virginia Mortgage Bankers Association.

The merger was official on May 15 and the company will be headquartered at  1705 E. Franklin St. and has a team of five employees.

More information about Big Spoon Co. can be found at bigspoonco.com and Facebook and Instagram at @bigspoonco.