When Andy Abend and Tom Moore decided to start their own advertising agency, their mantra was simple Ð do great work for people they like. That strategy has paid off in spades as Abend & Moore broke the million dollar mark in billings during its first year of operations in 2004 Ð without taking an existing client from their respective big-agency pasts with them.

A full-service advertising agency, Abend & Moore partners with companies ranging from billion-dollar corporations to start-ups. Their clients include All-In Chips, BISYS Education Services, Coverdell & Company, Emory Center for Lifelong Learning, the Flint RiverQuarium in Albany, Ga., Hamilton State Bank, InComm and the Lupus Foundation's Georgia Chapter.

During 2005, the agency plans to move into larger office space and hire additional staff.

Continuing strong relationships with current clients is essential as Abend & Moore targets additional business in the future. The firm has a strong base of expertise to build from, having repositioned three brands, produced eight television spots, numerous print ads, direct mail, outdoor, radio, two web sites and accomplished much more during their first year of operations.

The success of Abend & Moore reflects the rise of independent advertising agencies in the Atlanta market and throughout the country. Although it is quite rare for an independent shop to break a million dollars in billings during their first year while building an entirely new client base, an increasing number of smaller firms are leveraging their lean size to win new accounts over bigger, more traditional advertising agencies.

One major difference is the way in which firms now purchase advertising time. Holding companies today have created media shops that promote general access, allowing independent agencies to enjoy the same buying clout as national firms.