Hi. I’m Üma.

(the umlaut is silent)

I’m a writer whose work spans brand journalism, long-form editorial, CPG copywriting, and narrative-driven marketing. I specialize in shaping complex ideas into clear, compelling stories—whether that’s for consumer brands, publications, or campaigns that need to sound like real humans. I’m brought in to shape voice, positioning, and narrative.

üma kleppinger

THE BACKSTORY

With roots deep in publishing, early-stage startups, and purpose-driven organizations, I’ve worked on both the visual design and the narrative sides of storytelling. The publications I’ve written for, edited, designed and produced run the gamut from business management to Buddhism, from politics to punk rock, and from wellness to wheels.

As a copywriter, I've got chops in both consumer facing content and B2B. I'm also a deft editor, accountability partner, and communications strategist. As a creative director, I know the intersection of visual and narrative storytelling cannot be underestimated.

My leadership style is relational and justice-oriented. To that end, sustainability, social justice, and community activism drives me. The cool, cloudy, misty magic of the Pacific Northwest restores me. Collaboration inspires me.

Kindness is my religion and working to make a difference in this crazy world of ours gets me out of bed in the morning.

collage of uma kleppinger

Work With Me

I’ve spent most of my career in consulting and contract roles, including long-term engagements across publishing, fitness, consumer goods, healthtech and nonprofit advocacy. I’m open to project-based, contract, or full-time roles that value strong writing, narrative clarity, and experienced creative judgment.

Here’s what my clients have to say about working with me.

The projects that Üma wrote copy for have been some of the smoothest projects, the best launches, and happiest clients in my years as an agency owner. Üma is very communicative and responsive, but beyond that, Üma understands the power of storytelling. She infuses the copy with a depth of feeling that clients love.”

KRONDA ADAIR

FOUNDER, KARVEL DIGITAL MARKETING

“Üma worked for me on dozens of custom print projects. She’s a strong team member and collaborator. I highly recommend her and I will continue to use her in the future.”

Bruce Raskin

Managing Editor,
Time Custom Publishing

“I originally hired Uma as a copy editor/strategist/project manager to keep my feet to the fire as my small business scaled. Original scope of work was helping me manage email marketing and my blog. I quickly realized what a strong collaborator she is, and she‘s now regularly ghostwriting, acting as an accountability partner, and improving all Radius content and messaging. I am so grateful I hired her to navigate how Radius shows up during COVID and as a values-driven company committed to antiracism and social justice.”

LORI EBERLY

FOUNDER, RADIUS ECD

“Üma has a unique skill set across several content mediums.  She’s also a joy to work with and a real producer. Clients love working with her!”

ADRIAN MONTGOMERY

VERDE PUBLIC RELATIONS

“Uma is smart, strategic, and has a passionate dedication to excellence. Her desire to create real results for her clients ensures effective engagements. She is a master storyteller, fearless networker, and strong communicator with the ability to engage a wide variety of audiences with honesty and authenticity.”

CIARA PRESSLER

EDITOR, PREGAME MAGAZINE

“Üma was a dependable and consistent editorial columnist with a high degree of integrity. She took her work seriously, had great attention to detail, and was driven to achieve success with everything she did as a contributor.”

CORNELIUS SWART

MANAGING EDITOR, GOLOCALPDX

get in touch

971-249-2519  •  hello@umakleppinger.com

Wind Mountain
Please enter your name.
Please enter a message.
uk-soft-facepic

IN A NUTSHELL

Üma Kleppinger helps organizations and brands say what they mean—out loud, on purpose, and in ways their audience can feel. I work on brand messaging, internal language, straight copywriting, and voice-driven strategy—especially when the story no longer matches the reality.

LET’S CONNECT

hello (AT) umakleppinger.com

(503) 819-6953