At BRIGHTN Commercial Productions, growth has always been about building the right creative partnerships, refining the way we serve clients, and continuing to elevate the quality and strategy behind every project we produce. As BRIGHTN continues expanding its commercial production capabilities, we’re excited to officially welcome Jordan Vandenberge as a new Managing Partner and our Director of Video Operations.
Jordan brings a strong blend of Emmy Award winning creative storytelling, technical expertise, and operational insight to the BRIGHTN team. Over the past several months, he has already played a major role behind the scenes by helping refine post-production workflows, supporting creative development, and strengthening the systems that allow our projects to move efficiently from concept to final delivery. His addition marks an exciting next chapter for BRIGHTN as we continue building a production company designed not only to create impactful visuals, but to operate at a higher level for the brands and organizations we partner with.
To help everyone get to know Jordan a little better, we sat down for a conversation about storytelling, collaboration, creative growth, and where we’re headed next.
You’ve built a strong reputation through Catchlight Film & Photo Co. —what was it about BRIGHTN that made you feel like this was the right next step?
BRIGHTN already had a well-established and highly regarded presence in the market and had adopted the same approach and level of quality that I did. Candidly, it was a no-brainer.
Prior to partnering with BRIGHTN, I had already established foothold in the corporate and commercial video market but I began to realize I was hitting my ceiling as a solo operator. By partnering with BRIGHTN, we will be able to take on bigger, more demanding projects while still ensuring the highest of quality and a personal, ‘white glove’ approach.
You and Justin have been discussing this partnership for quite a while now. What ultimately made you both decide this was the right time to make it official?
Justin and I have always had a collegial and supportive relationship — and that level of mutual respect has been apparent since the first time we talked over Instagram. We both share the same core beliefs, principles and commitment to our clients. We also share the same long term goals. Even beyond the corporate and commercial video world, we’re good friends, which, I believe, is an incredibly important factor in determining whether to partner with someone. Our Spotify playlists are also eerily similar, which has to count for something.
Your background in storytelling and filmmaking has shaped the way you approach video. How do you see that influencing the future of BRIGHTN’s video offerings?
Whether it be about a brand, a new product or new initiative, telling stories is the essence of what we do. In many respects, it is the essence of who I am as a person, too.
I was always the kid that received “talks excessively in class” notes on my report cards in school (my parents can independently confirm this). That proclivity eventually turned into a 13-year career working in local television and telling the stories of the people, places, brands and businesses that make Northeast Ohio an incredible place to call home.
I believe that experience coupled with the genuine joy that I get from telling a story in a clear, creative and compelling way will help BRIGHTN build upon its already impressive growth.
What excites you most about collaborating as a Managing Partner rather than operating independently?
What excites me most about becoming a managing partner is the ability to brainstorm and bounce ideas off of Justin — someone whose creativity, dedication and work ethic rivals mine. Not only that, our respective skillsets are remarkably complementary to one another. By joining forces, each of our respective strengths grows even stronger. Additionally, by sharing the workload, we are both able to truly perfect our craft.
As you step into the role of Director of Video at BRIGHTN, what kinds of projects, stories, or creative opportunities are you most excited to pursue moving forward?
Is “D) All of the above” an option? Seriously speaking, the beauty of being in this line of work is just how different each project can be. One day we may be at a law firm in a downtown high-rise; the next day we may be at a family-run bakery that has been around since the days of the horse and buggy. Never knowing what opportunity may walk in that door on any given day makes each day and each inquiry indescribably exciting.
What each of those projects has in common — and what excites me most — is the opportunity to tell the story of the brand and building a long-lasting, rewarding relationship with the client. Having a client’s unwavering trust in our creativity and approach is something we don’t take lightly.
In case ‘all of the above’ isn’t a possible answer, I would absolutely love to take on a long form film project about the history of a particular brand or product that has had a demonstrative impact on our every day lives or has helped those that are less fortunate. Think of it as a brand-forward documentary film.
As BRIGHTN Commercial Productions continues to grow,
this partnership represents more than just a new title or expanded leadership structure. It reflects a larger vision for where the company is headed. By combining a shared passion for storytelling with a stronger operational foundation, BRIGHTN is positioning itself to take on larger creative challenges, build deeper client partnerships, and continue delivering work that feels intentional, strategic, and visually impactful.
Jordan’s addition as Managing Partner and Director of Video Operations strengthens not only the creative capabilities of the company, but also the systems and collaborative approach that support every project behind the scenes. With an increasing focus on elevated productions, brand storytelling, and long-term creative partnerships, the future of BRIGHTN is centered around building something sustainable, scalable, and deeply rooted in meaningful creative work.
We’re excited for what’s ahead, and even more excited to continue creating alongside the incredible clients, collaborators, and community that have helped BRIGHTN grow into what it is today.