In this quick moving, clickbait culture that chases fleeting trends and gimmicks, some companies stand the test of time by staying true to the core of what really matters—brand identity. TSC Marketing, a middle Tennessee branding and marketing company, is one of those companies.
Founded in 1977 on the iconic Music Row, TSC has built its roots deep within Nashville’s rich history and culture. Over the years, TSC has evolved from its humble beginnings to an integral player in the city's marketing scene. But it’s the family behind the company—Lee Stewart, owner, and Jenny Stewart, VP—that truly embodies the heart of TSC Marketing.
From Nashville to Mt. Juliet: A Family Journey
The Stewarts’ journey with TSC began when Lee purchased the company in 2017. Lee graduated from Belmont in 2010 and worked in the creative sector, including a notable role at Amazon in women’s retail apparel as well as photo editor work on published Victoria’s Secret imagery, before taking the leap to buy the company he now leads. Jenny, his high school sweetheart at Brentwood Highschool, joined the business in 2018, bringing her deep ties to Nashville’s music legacy—her great-uncle Neal Matthews Jr. was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame as a member of The Jordanaires and developed the Nashville Number System, still used in the music industry today.
Their story, one of reconnecting after years apart, mirrors the story of TSC itself. Despite challenges—most notably the impacts of COVID policies on the Nashville tourism industry—the Stewarts have expanded the company’s reach far beyond Nashville’s borders, working with clients nationwide, and growing new markets for branded merchandise and marketing solutions.
Today, TSC has moved its operations to Wilson County, but it hasn’t lost its connection to Music City. The company continues to nurture long-standing relationships with beloved Nashville institutions, like the Johnny Cash Museum, the Country Music Hall of Fam, Hatch Show Print and Opry.
Branding That Builds Connections
At its core, TSC Marketing is about more than just creating branded items; it’s about building relationships. The company works with a diverse set of clients, from local musicians and Nashville landmarks to national brands, to create custom merchandise that tells a unique story. Whether it's designing apparel, producing branded accessories, or curating the perfect corporate gift, TSC helps businesses and organizations connect with their audience in meaningful ways.
Some of their standout projects include producing the top-selling sweatshirt at the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2024, and a wide range of other items in their gift shop such as guitar picks, hats, bags, stickers, and more. TSC also crafts rubber duckies for The General Jackson, collapsible dog bowls for Ole Red, and vintage coin purses for Luke Combs’ restaurant, Category 10. They’ve made apparel for Nudie’s Bar, and supplied everything from tin signs to coffee cups and lip balm for the Johnny Cash Museum. Hatch Show Print regularly orders aprons and tees, while The Ryman purchases umbrellas and pens. One of TSC’s very first customers, Rider’s In The Sky, is still one of their best clients today. They’re also proud to supply products for the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), the U.S. Air Force, and several Tennessee State Parks.
“We love working closely with our clients to build their branded items from the ground up,” says Lee. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see businesses thrive through the work we do together.”
Why Local Businesses Need Strong Branding
Branding is more than just a logo or a catchy slogan—it’s the visual and emotional connection a customer has with a business. For local businesses, this connection can be even more important. In a city like Nashville, where tourism plays a massive role in the economy, the local community is often overlooked in favor of national or even global audiences. But according to the Stewarts, local businesses have just as much to gain from investing in strong, cohesive branding.
Jenny emphasizes that high-quality branding photos and consistent branding materials are essential to creating a polished, professional identity. "Branding photos are a must. They give your business a personality, help tell your story, and make you more connected to your audience," she says. “Without great images, your business can come across as less polished or even less serious.” TSC’s expertise extends into professional photography as part of its comprehensive branding services—ensuring that every aspect of your business resonates with quality and care.
Here are three things TSC suggests you ask yourself about your business’s branding:
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Does it have an identity? A solid brand helps you define who you are and stand out in a crowded market. Branded apparel and products are an affordable way to market your business. 90% of purchasing decisions are made subconsciously and logos play a large part in influencing these decisions.
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Has it built trust? 59% of consumers say that branded apparel makes them feel more loyal to a company. Over time customers may develop an emotional attachment to your logo, which strengthens loyalty and trust.
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Does it have recognition? A strong brand makes you memorable, which is key to building long-term success and loyalty. 71% of people keep promotional products for over a year, keeping your brand visible long after the initial interaction.
A Local Legacy That Thrives
As TSC continues to grow, the Stewarts remain committed to their roots in Middle Tennessee. “It’s been an incredible experience to watch both Lebanon and Nashville grow and evolve over the years,” says Jenny. “We are thankful and blessed to live here and run a business like this. Everyone wants to come to Nashville and bring a piece of it back home with them.”
This sense of community and pride in their work is what sets TSC Marketing apart. They understand that local businesses are not just clients—they’re neighbors, friends, and partners in the journey of success. That’s why, whether you’re a mom-and-pop shop or a large corporation, TSC is dedicated to helping you elevate your brand and make meaningful connections with your audience.
As Wilson County continues changing and expanding, TSC Marketing is a steady force, committed to the art of branding and the spirit of collaboration. From their family to yours, they’re here to help you tell your story—and bring your brand to life.
For more information, visit www.tscmarketing.com.
Strong branding creates emotional connections, builds trust, and makes your business memorable in a crowded market.