Baer began his career in Cincinnati, Ohio as a Department Store merchandiser. By 1990, Baer left Ohio and headed to the warm southwest of Arizona and becoming a Regional Visual Manager for Macy’s/The Broadway Stores Inc. In 1996, Baer returned to Ohio to expand his career and develop his own entrepreneurial and philanthropic goals. His experience grew to include specialty store brands including Victoria’s Secret Beauty and Bath & Body Works and retail design with Columbus based Chute Gerdeman Retail Design.

Baer realized his goals to own and operate his own creative company and in 1999 Baer started ZenGenius Visual Merchants. ZenGenius has developed into a collective of freelance visual artists and designers that tackle all types of creative and retail projects. ZenGenius Visual Merchants impresses their clients with a dedicated, hard-working team that inspires and reaches new levels in visual merchandising and event décor concepts.

Baer believes that giving back to the community is important and encourages all consultants to pick a cause and give back through volunteer and support. Baer is a Volunteer and Vice President of Niches Retreat, Inc. Niches is supported by Earthtouch a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the connection between humans and nature. He is also on the Short North Business Association Board of Directors.

“I want to inspire others to create environments that visually and physically engage the guest in a beautiful and harmonious experience.”