We’re looking forward to introducing you to Sarah Salvatoriello. Check out our conversation below.
Sarah, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve been taking improv classes which is equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. It’s been this unexpected reset button for how I communicate and think on my feet. Improv forces you to listen harder, respond thoughtfully, and stay present — all things that conveniently make me sharper at work, too. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about turning off the strategist brain for a bit and saying “yes, and” without overthinking it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Sarah, founder of Ampersand & Ampersand — a branding studio for businesses going through a change. I help small-to-mid-sized, mission-driven companies align their vision, voice, and visuals so their brand actually means something (and doesn’t sound like it was written by a committee).
Before going out on my own, I spent nearly two decades in corporate roles leading creative teams at Condé Nast, Tripadvisor, and a few other heritage media companies. Now I use that big-brand experience to help smaller teams communicate with the same level of clarity and confidence — without the corporate nonsense.
In addition to Ampersand & Ampersand, I run the Jersey City chapter of Ladies Wine & Design, a global initiative supporting women and non-binary creatives. We host monthly salons focused on creative growth and community — because the best ideas don’t happen in isolation; they happen when people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
I’ve been lucky to have incredible mentors at every stage. In college, I had professors who delivered the tough love I needed to rise to the occasion. Early in my career, I worked for women who modeled what it looks like to lead with both intellect and humanity — and to do it while raising families, running teams, and refusing to shrink themselves. These days, I’m more intentional about who I learn from. I look for people who challenge my assumptions, expand my perspective, and remind me that “success” isn’t a static finish line — it’s a moving target that should evolve with you.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You don’t need to earn rest, and you don’t need to prove your worth through output. The work will always be there — but the joy, curiosity, and weird little sparks that make you you deserve your attention, too. Oh, and the thing you think makes you “too much”? That’s actually your edge. Don’t sand it down.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Community, hands down. Real community — not the performative, comment-for-comment kind. The kind built on generosity, curiosity, and mutual respect. I protect that at all costs because it’s where the best ideas, collaborations, and friendships are born. You can’t do meaningful work in isolation; creativity needs friction, support, and a few people who remind you you’re not losing your mind.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
The first day of every job I’ve ever had has felt like that — full tap-dance energy. I still remember interning at House Industries in college and proudly hauling boxes of photolettering type out of a flooded storage space like I was saving national treasures. Then came my New York internship — the ultimate “I made it” moment — followed by my first Art Director role at an ad agency that felt straight out of Mad Men. I remember walking in to my first day as a Creative Director or the first time I stepped on set to a photo shoot.
Those days feel like a lifetime ago, but that same spark still hits when I kick off a new client project. Working for myself brings that same mix of nerves and wonder — only now, I get to decide what the next “Day One” looks like.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yesandandand.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahsalv
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsalv
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/ladieswinedesign_jc
Image Credits
Averie Ann Studios
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