Our Story

We’re passionate about creating impactful, innovative communication and marketing strategies that uplift both our clients and the communities we serve.

Advocacy, respect, and resourcefulness are the values that guide us through every project we take on. We’re not here to sell or make noise. We’re here to build strong, lasting relationships.

So, if you're looking for a team that not only brings creativity and expertise but also a commitment to cultivating a positive brand identity for your business, then you've come to the right place.

Let's make an impact together.

Founded to be more than a service provider, AM Group is a dedicated partner for brands seeking to make their mark in Northwest Arkansas and beyond.

Why Northwest Arkansas?

NWA has a dynamic business landscape and collaborative ecosystem that makes this a hub for innovation. At AM Group, we share this region’s community-centric mindset and are excited to be part of its growth.

Working in Northwest Arkansas also allows us to serve a vibrant mix of industries, including real estate and development, hospitality, outdoor recreation, lifestyle brands, and nonprofit sectors. We can’t wait to hear how your business or organization is making a difference here.

REAL ESTATE
HOSPITALITY
NONPROFIT
LIFESTYLE
OUTDOOR RECREATON

Andrea Ritchie

MANAGING PARTNER | CO-FOUNDER

Andrea, President of AM Group, advocates passionately for Northwest Arkansas. She holds a Master's in Education and a Bachelor’s in Journalism, specializing in Advertising & Public Relations from the University of Arkansas. Her career journey includes roles with Bike Bentonville, Visit Bentonville, and CJRW.

As a mother to her toddler, Allie, Andrea balances her professional pursuits with an active lifestyle and a deep love for her family. Alongside her husband, Jacob, and their two dogs, Booker and Otis, and two cats, Kit Kat and Trumpet, Andrea embraces the charm of Northwest Arkansas.

Mary Mickel

MANAGING PARTNER | CO-FOUNDER

​​Mary has dedicated over 16 years to strategic communications, successfully co-founding Austin-based firm, Resplendent Agency, before exiting and co-founding AM Group. She has secured favorable client coverage in outlets like Bloomberg, Nasdaq, Fox Business, Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and the cover of Travel + Leisure. Most recently, she served as SVP of Marketing at AcreTrader and Acres, leading the marketing function for one of the most innovative companies in agricultural investment and land intelligence, where she continues to lead communications and brand partnerships.

Outside of work, Mary is busy chasing her two young sons and not-so-young pups with her husband Wes, who is fittingly a chef.

Amber Wilichowski

SR. ACCOUNT MANAGER

Amber is a driven professional with a Bachelor’s in Journalism from the University of Arkansas, specializing in Advertising & Public Relations. With over seven years of experience in managing business social media accounts, Amber has honed her expertise in crafting compelling and engaging online content.

When not working, Amber enjoys being outdoors, whether it's biking, spending time by the lake, or sharing moments with friends and family. She's happily married and shares her home with two cats and two dogs.

Taylor Howard

SR. ACCOUNT COORDINATOR

Originally from Texas, Taylor graduated in May 2023 with a BSBA in Marketing from the University of Arkansas. Her academic journey featured a notable stint studying international marketing at the University of Arkansas Rome Center. Alongside her major, she pursued a minor in Supply Chain Management, leading to an internship at Uber Freight, where she contributed as a specialist on the Kellogg’s account.

Outside her professional pursuits, she enjoys outdoor exploration, travel, and occasional baking experiments. Weekends often find her exploring coffee shops or cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks.

Lauren Alter

ACCOUNT COORDINATOR

Originally from New Zealand, Lauren moved to Arkansas in 2017 to play tennis for the Razorbacks. She graduated in 2023 with a Master's in Operations Management and brings over four years of experience in social media management. Lauren loves sifting through social trends and applying them in fun, new ways.

In her free time, you'll find Lauren staying active, whether it's hitting the gym with her husband Ty or taking their dog Hank for a stroll around the Fayetteville Markets!