Connecting and dividing are key elements to Kim Knoll's work. After working independently as freelancers, she and her husband Kyle Eertmoed joined forces in January 2011 to co-found design and branding firm Knoed Creative Inc. Most of their clients are small businesses, including furniture retailer Jayson Home, sandwich shop Hannah's Bretzel and Gene's Sausage Shop & Delicatessen. She also is Chicago chapter organizer for CreativeMornings, a global breakfast lecture series on creativity. Knoll explains what goes into making a strong brand identity for startups and why separation is critical when you work with your life partner.

Read more at Chicago Tribune.