In an industry that’s all about making noise, sometimes the most powerful statement is a quiet one. That’s the approach HoneyHouse PR owner Michael Whiteacre is taking after his agency landed its second consecutive nomination for Most Popular PR Agency at the 2025 Urban X Awards.
The Voice and the Microphone
While many nominees would be blasting “vote for me” from the digital rooftops, Whiteacre is taking a refreshingly different tack. He believes the best PR work happens when the publicist stays invisible and lets the client shine. It’s a philosophy he lives by.
“I am honored to be nominated again this year,” Whiteacre shared. “As I said when HoneyHouse was named Best Public Relations Firm at the ASN Awards in 2023, the job of PR and communications is all about the client; I tell each one, at the outset, that they are the voice and HoneyHouse is the microphone.”
This “microphone” philosophy is a core part of the HoneyHouse identity. Whiteacre sees campaigning for votes as a direct contradiction to his behind-the-scenes ethos.
“This is a behind-the-scenes job, done best, in my opinion, when the strategist is more-or-less invisible,” he explained. “Thus, campaigning for votes is a contradiction, to me. I don’t do it, and I prefer my work at HoneyHouse to speak for itself.”
Why This Nod Matters
Getting a nomination at the Urban X Awards is a significant achievement. The show, presented by the popular brand Bad Dragon, holds a special place in the industry for its long-standing mission to celebrate and elevate performers of color. An acknowledgment here isn’t just about popularity; it’s about being recognized for contributing to a more diverse and vibrant landscape.
The 2025 show, set for August 17th at the Regent Theater in downtown L.A., is already generating buzz with a powerhouse trio of hosts: Ebony Mystique, Isiah Maxwell, and Lacy Lennon. Their presence signals a can’t-miss night for the industry.
PR in the Modern Creator Era
HoneyHouse PR’s success, which includes back-to-back “Best Public Relations Firm” wins at the 2023 and 2024 ASN Awards, highlights a major shift in the industry. Today, PR isn’t just about press clippings; it’s about strategic brand building. With performers becoming their own bosses on creator-owned platforms, having a savvy team to manage communications and amplify their authentic voice is more crucial than ever.
Whiteacre’s approach of empowering clients to be “the voice” while his firm acts as “the microphone” resonates deeply in an era where fans crave genuine connection with creators. By focusing on authentic storytelling, HoneyHouse has carved out a reputation for getting results without compromising the personalities of their clients.
Though he won’t be campaigning, Whiteacre expressed his sincere appreciation for the recognition.
“Nonetheless, I am deeply grateful for the acknowledgment this second time. I extend my most sincere thanks to everyone at Urban X, and congratulations to the other nominees!”
Fans and industry members can cast their votes until August 1st. You can follow the journey on social media via @HoneyHousePR and the @urbanxawards on X.
* Photo from asnhub.com
