The Team
Lara Lupish
Founder & Creative Director
Hi I’m Lara.
I am the Founder of Façon Creative. I started the company about 10 years ago, but have been “in training” for this role for a long time (I’m not going to tell you how long, but will tell you my “heyday” was in the 90’s, running around the streets of London with cargo pants on and little crop top å la Gwen Stefani).
My journey into the world of media isn't a typical tale. Before diving into this world I delved into the depths of the human psyche, studying psychology at Newcastle University. I really feel that has given me an understanding of what makes people tick and has undoubtedly influenced my approach to how I work with our clients!
My main LOVE is brand development! Although I wear many hats at Façon Creative, I LOVE bringing an idea to life. From the initial concepts over many lattes with our clients and then seeing the ideas come to life.
I guess you could say I have been developing my IP over my whole career and I share this readily with whoever we work with. I've learnt the crazy methodology behind building a successful creative agency by the guiding hands that I have been lucky to have received as my career grew in London, Sydney and North America. I'm so thrilled to have had the influence of this cosmopolitan vibe, and that has helped shape a unique aesthetic in my company and the privilege of a global perspective.
My family is a great influence on me! I love fashion, art and am a sucker for a good old rom-com. I love my work. And as the saying goes “do what you love and you will never work a day in your life.”
Sophie Burley
PR & Marketing Manager
Hey, I’m Soph!
Since jumping on board with the Façon Creative team in early 2021, I've been on quite the ride, collaborating with clients ranging from high-end fashion labels to local restaurants, daredevil stunt pilots, and strata managers – a real mixed bag.
My roots are planted in Port Macquarie, but I moved to Newcastle in 2019 to put my “chatterbox” personality (as my friends and family would say) to good use, for a Bachelor of Communication with a double major in Public Relations and Media Studies.
Now armed with industry knowledge and my natural knack for PR, marketing, and social media, my focus is on turning a client’s creative visions into reality. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of sending out a press release or attending an event, and then watching it on the news that night or reading about it in a national publication - something I could only dream of as a kid.
My whole life my parents have told me I was “born under a lucky star”, but really I think it’s a good mixture of ‘work smarter not harder’ mentality and my love for building connections that really last the test of time. In the end, that’s the PR industry isn’t it? Building mutually beneficial connections and supporting other creatives.
In my free time, you’ll likely find me and my friends at a Bowling Club, watching true crime or in a deep TikTok hole. Bribe me with a skim cap and I’ll be ready to bend over backwards for your brand.
Jason Fox
Client Relationship Manager
Hey, I'm Jason.
Many people have told me that whatever I touch turns to gold. Well that may be the case and if it is, it is because I love what I do and am passionate about my clients and making sure that they get the best of the best.
I have extensive experience, 40 years working in many customer-centric roles, so I know how to think and be in your shoes. I am focused on solutions rather than problems. Yep you know it, l love a good cliche!
You create your professional destiny and I have done just that. My scope working with brands ranges from the infamous international luxury brand Ralph Lauren to uplifting the retail space in the charity sector. I am proud of the fact that I was ahead of the recycled fashion revolution trend before it was cool. Loving fashion as much as I do, I saw the positive outcomes for the planet, the global economy and what it meant to be conscious of recycling clothes.
Every client is individual and this gives me the opportunity to get to know them, work with them, learn what is at the soul of what they do. I want to elevate your brand, improve your outcomes!
My weekends are sometimes consumed with vintage shopping with my two fur babies in tow and a soy latte in hand, or bubbles by my pool - whatever the mood is. I love a good laugh and relish in working with a team that I also consider my friends. My inspo comes from my surrounds and occasionally (well more than occasionally) deep diving into a social media rabbit warren, you all know what that means.
Christina Koltovski
Senior Graphic Designer
Hello! I’m Christina, but you can call me Chris!
Born and bred in Newcastle, I’ve been spoiled with stunning beaches, saltwater lakes and a bit of nostalgic Silverchair! When I’m not at the beach or hanging out with my fur baby Rolex, you’ll find me crafting the perfect playlist to vibe to.
From a young age, I knew what I wanted to be. I always dreamed of being a rich and famous artist, but life had other plans. After a Diploma in Visual Arts at TAFE and exhibiting my work in various galleries, I quickly learned that the “starving artist” cliché is no joke. So, I pivoted, putting my creative skills to work in a more practical way, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design – one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
With 23 years of design experience, I’ve worked in design studios, corporate offices, and as a freelancer. I’ve had the thrill of being nominated for an AMI Marketing Excellence Award for a magazine cover, showcased my work at Design X in Sydney and Melbourne, collaborated on national conferences, and designed billboards across Australia.
Now, working for Façon Creative is a dream come true. Years ago, I picked up a copy of Façon Magazine and thought, “A high-end fashion magazine produced right here in Newcastle? I have to be a part of this!” Fast forward to now, I’m designing magazines, creating brand identities, building websites, and crafting ads – and loving every minute of it.
I’m passionate about creativity, imagination and inspiring others along the way. If you’re looking for a refresh, I would love to sprinkle my creativity and sink my teeth into your brand.