Don’t let the “& Co” trip you up. I use it in a different way: to focus on co-creating and the collaborative nature of my work rather than my company or co-workers.
Neapolitan & Co, affectionately known as “Nea,” is the independent creative studio of Sara Klele, located in Grand Rapids, MI, but working with clients across the country. The name reflects the way I blend design, communication, and strategy—and the collaborative partnerships I form with clients.
At its core, Nea helps businesses untangle complexity. I work with B2B clients to design strategies, communications, and experiences that make their brands stronger and their day-to-day smoother.
I launched Nea in 2007 after stepping away from the advertising world, seeking a more meaningful way to combine strategic storytelling with design. Since then, I’ve collaborated with a diverse range of clients, from small businesses to enterprise companies like PayPal, Steelcase, and Stryker, helping them communicate their value, streamline processes, and improve customer experiences.
My work is guided by the belief that clarity drives progress and strengthens relationships. I ask thoughtful questions, listen carefully, and uncover the insights needed to design meaningful solutions. Whether it’s visualizing data, streamlining workflows, or creating alignment, I ensure every project reflects your expertise and value.
When I’m off the clock, I stay actively involved in the design community—co-founding West Michigan Design Week and hosting regular networking happy hours. I’m always exploring new ideas, from diving into the latest design trends to following whatever sparks my curiosity. I’ve participated in Global Service Jam, trained in design thinking with IBM Design, and deepened my knowledge of human-centered design through an innovation course at IDEO U.
When I’m not exploring design, you’ll often find me hiking, camping, or enjoying a live concert. Occasionally, I’ll take a long drive to fit in all of these adventures at once. But don’t worry, as an independent collaborator remote work has always been part of my DNA, and my laptop is never far from reach.
I’ve always been fascinated by how people think and interact, and how everything in our world connects. This fascination drives my curiosity and shapes my design practice, which I see as a way to turn that curiosity into something tangible: clarity where there was confusion, and solutions where there were challenges. To me, design is more than just aesthetics; it’s about thoughtfully solving problems and creating meaningful change in the way we experience the world.
Early in my career, I walked away from advertising because I was asked to create dishonest design for unethical companies. That decision shaped how I approach things today: with honesty, respect, and a commitment to doing what’s right—for people, for businesses, and for the planet. If that sounds like the way you like to work, we’ll make a great team.
Every strong partnership starts with truth. To get to the heart of what matters, we need to be clear and upfront—about your idea, your product, and your customers. Authenticity isn’t just necessary for survival, it’s what makes brands thrive.
Curiosity isn’t just about finding answers—it’s about how we relate to the world and each other. By asking thoughtful questions, we better understand challenges, build trust, and uncover fresh perspectives. Approaching life with curiosity helps us imagine new possibilities and uncover insights that drive meaningful change.
Respect is non-negotiable. It starts with the people we work with and extends to the customers we serve, the products we create, and the planet we share. I believe everyone deserves equitable opportunities, and I won’t engage in work that compromises ethical standards. Integrity guides every project, ensuring that respect is upheld at every step.
