From Kitchen Table to Full-Service Agency: The Golden Mailer Story
- Sabline Carbaugh
- Oct 13
- 2 min read
What do you wish people knew about your business?
Golden Mailer was started by my mom in 1982, right at our kitchen table, with nothing but grit and determination. Her tenacious personality and savvy business mind helped her grow a successful direct mail company that provided quality advertising at an affordable price. To this day, I
still live by that same motto.
Today, we’ve evolved into a full-service advertising agency, offering online, social media, print, and web design services—all designed to help local businesses stay competitive and keep their phones ringing.
What keeps you motivated?
After graduating from college with a degree in economics, I wasn’t sure what my next step would be. I needed cash and a little time to figure things out. My mom’s secretary needed help, so I jumped in—filing papers, doing data entry, and yes, making coffee runs. Eventually, my mom handed me a few small clients to manage… and I was hooked.
I got to meet business owners, hear their stories and dreams, and be part of helping those dreams come true. It was magical—and it still is.
Too often, advertising companies are focused only on sales and profit. That mindset can lead to poor advice and wasted marketing dollars. We want to change that. We use real data (that econ degree paid off!) to guide our clients. As a full-service agency with a full toolbox of marketing tactics, we’re able to pivot and align each campaign with our clients’ goals.
What does “supporting local” mean to you?
My heart goes out to small business owners—the long hours, the stress, and above all, the dedication. I meet so many local business owners who truly care about their customers. Nancy from Shish Grill cooks with love and is always happy to feed my children. The ladies at Labrie Construction answer the phones with warmth and genuine care. Windowsmith was my mom’s very first client, and now I work with the owner’s daughter.
Every business has a story. Every one has a family behind it. I’ve celebrated births with them and mourned losses. We’ve stood together through the housing crisis, COVID, and whatever comes next.
And it’s all possible because of you, dear reader. Thank you for continuing to support local.
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