Crone & Co. is a Raleigh-based, woman-owned strategic communications firm founded by sisters Madeline Crone Stephens and Margaret Crone. With a deep commitment to relationship building, community impact, and storytelling, Crone & Co. specializes in crafting intentional strategies and cultivating lasting connections for our clients.

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At the core of our work is strategic communications — a results-driven approach to defining goals, identifying audiences, and creating compelling narratives that resonate. Together we combine our expertise to craft tailored strategies to elevate voices, shape public perception, and influence stakeholders to drive meaningful change.

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Our public affairs expertise spans a wide range of sectors, including empowering nonprofits, guiding small businesses, supporting political candidates, and collaborating with corporations and government entities. From winning elections to building public support, we are committed to delivering innovative strategies that help our clients achieve their goals.

As proud Raleigh natives, we are deeply rooted in our community and dedicated to fostering positive change across North Carolina. At Crone & Co., we believe in the power of clear communication and strong relationships to create a lasting impact.

 

Madeline Stephens
> Director of Public Affairs

Madeline Stephens is the Director of Public Affairs at Crone & Company. With expertise in copywriting, content creation, and relationship building, Madeline is passionate about crafting people-first strategies and leveraging storytelling to create meaningful connections.

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A proven leader in public affairs, Madeline has managed several winning political campaigns and bond referendums, demonstrating her ability to drive impactful, results-oriented strategies. Her work extends beyond campaigns; she is also a published author, with bylines in American Songwriter, Bluegrass Situation, No Depression, INDY Week, and Holler, showcasing her talent for narrative-driven communication.

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Madeline holds a B.A. in Psychology from Sewanee: The University of the South, where she developed a deep understanding of human behavior and the power of connection—principles she applies in her professional work. She believes in the importance of intentional strategies and meaningful storytelling as a way to build lasting relationships, connect communities, and help organizations grow their roots.

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A proud Raleigh native, Madeline lives with her husband, John, their young son, Jack, and their 100-pound Great Pyrenees, Leroy. Whether she’s working to elevate her clients’ voices or contributing to her local community, Madeline is committed to fostering positive change through clear communication and purposeful action.

 

Margaret Crone

> Director of Strategy and Operations

With a strong background in marketing, copywriting, and operations, Margaret brings a strategic and creative approach to public affairs and communications. She has experience managing campaigns, with a particular talent for crafting persuasive messaging that drives engagement and action across digital, radio, print, and TV platforms.

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Since 2020, Margaret has overseen mail programs for eight campaigns, coordinating copywriting, design, production, and mail service for over 1,000,000 pieces of campaign mail. She has also led marketing efforts for major bond referendums, including the 2022 Wake County School Bond, Raleigh Parks Bond, and WakeTech Bond, all of which passed the 2022 midterm elections.

 

In 2024, Margaret earned her B.A. in American Studies with honors from Sewanee: The University of the South. It is here where she honed her writing skills and deepened her love for American history and literature. When she's not working, you can find Margaret trying new restaurants with friends, spending time with her family, or enjoying the outdoors.