Brandman, formerly The Brandman Agency, proudly announces its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter century as a leading force in luxury travel and lifestyle communications. Founded in New York by Melanie Brandman (pictured), the agency has grown from a boutique firm into an internationally recognized consultancy with offices in six cities around the world.
This milestone year also marks a significant evolution for the company. The agency is unveiling a comprehensive rebrand — simplifying its name to Brandman — alongside the launch of a new website and refreshed visual identity that reflect its global presence, strategic sophistication, and forward-looking vision.
Brandman’s founding followed Melanie Brandman’s distinguished 15-year career with InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, where she led global public relations efforts for one of the world’s most respected hospitality companies. Upon her move to New York, establishing her own agency was not necessarily planned, but it proved to be a natural next step — combining her deep hospitality expertise, global relationships, and entrepreneurial drive. What began as a single-office consultancy has evolved into a multi-city global agency representing some of the most prestigious names in luxury travel and lifestyle.
“For 25 years, we have championed the brands that define how the world travels and lives,” said Melanie Brandman, Founder and CEO of Brandman. “This rebrand reflects our evolution — honoring our legacy while positioning us for the next era of growth, innovation, and global influence.”
Throughout its history, Brandman has built a reputation for strategic storytelling, enduring media relationships, and shaping narratives that influence the luxury hospitality landscape. The agency has been recognized with numerous industry awards for excellence in communications, and Melanie Brandman herself has been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from HSMAI (Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International), recognizing her longstanding impact on the global hospitality industry.
Under the leadership of Founder Melanie Brandman and Chief Operating Officer Kristen Vigrass, the agency continues to expand its integrated capabilities across public relations, digital strategy, partnerships, and brand positioning.
“Our growth has been intentional and strategic,” said Kristen Vigrass, President and COO of Brandman. “As we’ve expanded into six global cities, our focus has remained the same: delivering meaningful, results-driven campaigns while maintaining the high-touch, bespoke service that defines Brandman. The rebrand signals a bold next chapter.”
With a portfolio spanning iconic hotel groups, independent luxury properties, tourism boards, and lifestyle brands, Brandman remains dedicated to shaping the future of luxury travel communications — setting industry standards while adapting to an ever-evolving media landscape.
As it enters its next 25 years, Brandman stands firmly at the intersection of global perspective and personalized service, continuing to tell the stories that inspire the way the world travels.
Image courtesy of Brandman
