March 3, 2025

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Kelsey Steineke, a graphic designer at The Sampson House and owner of Kelsey Carleen Photography. She’s also an instructor at Ignite Infrared Fitness Studio and Lawless Pilates.

Name: Kelsey Steineke

Age: 28

Hometown: Crooks

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I’m a Sioux Falls local — born and raised in the area. I attended the University of Sioux Falls, so this city has always been home to me!

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Friends, family and my four jobs. Sioux Falls is where my people are and where I get to chase all my passions.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I love being able to create and bring my ideas and vision to life. Whether it’s graphic design, photography or teaching fitness classes, each space lets me build something that feels intentional, artful and uniquely me.

In design, I love developing logos, brands and bold marketing campaigns. With photography, it’s all about capturing a feeling — crafting compositions, playing with light and dreaming up fun poses that make you remember the moment long after it’s gone. And in fitness instructing, I get to build the whole vibe: curating workouts, mixing playlists and adding my own spicy twists that leave people feeling strong and energized.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I got connected to my industry through the University of Sioux Falls, which has an incredible art program. The professors there really pushed me to explore what lights me up — design and photography — and encouraged me to dive into projects that sparked my creativity. That guidance and support helped me find my path and turn my passion into a career.

Describe The Sampson House in three words.

Creative, strategic, bold.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I have a serious sweet tooth! Nothing is too sweet for me. I love dreaming up my own dessert creations. This year for my birthday, I went all out and made myself a strawberry cake with cotton candy mousse filling and cake batter frosting.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

My favorite way to give back is by supporting small, local businesses. Lucky for me, I get to do that every day through my own work! When you shop, create or collaborate locally, you’re not just supporting a business — you’re investing in people, their dreams and the one-of-a-kind energy they bring to our city. There’s something so special about the personal touch, passion and care that only a local business can give.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

Trader Joe’s. It’s not just a want — it’s a need.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Continuing to grow creatively! In five years, I hope to be working on projects that let me bring my ideas to life in bold, meaningful ways. I want to keep pushing boundaries, creating art, exploring new ways to tell stories through design and photography, and crafting fitness workouts that inspire others. Doing more of what I love and having the confidence to do less of what doesn’t fill my cup!