who we are

“I  am passionate about small business — the backbone of the U.S. economy. And I’m passionate about helping small businesses grow and succeed.”


Iris Marreck, CEO
, has over 35 years of branding, graphic design and marketing experience in the Chicago metro area. Before starting her own firm, she was Associate Creative Director at K & R Advertising, a leading consumer services firm. There, she developed her solid grasp of marketing and expertise in all elements of design and communication.

A voracious reader, wine lover, mother of two and avid jazz enthusiast, Iris has helped propel her eldest son, Sam Barsh, to national prominence in the music scene, designing his CD covers, marketing his news and building his fan base.

Iris brings the same passion to helping her clients define their brands, building coordinated marketing efforts in all media, and grow business through the roof.

When not immersed in one of her creative passions, Iris is involved with her community. She has served on the boards of Literature for All of Us, A Just Harvest and Beth Emet Synagogue. She currently serves on the boards of SBAC Empower and Twist Out Cancer. She is also an active committee member of the Magnificent Mile Association and EPWNG, and chapter co-chair of The Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC).

After working successfully together for several years, Iris and two strategic partners, Rickey Gold and Steven Stern, formed a new website design and internet marketing company ten years ago.  What A Great Website is dedicated to creating marketing-driven websites and digital marketing campaigns.