That's great to hear that you're interested in the marketing field and have a creative side! Building a career in marketing and eventually starting your own firm can be an exciting journey. Here's a detailed roadmap with tips to help you get started:

1. Gain a solid foundation in marketing: Start by learning the fundamental concepts of marketing. You can enroll in online courses, read books, or even pursue a degree in marketing. Some recommended resources include "Principles of Marketing" by Philip Kotler and "Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth in the Digital Age" by Jonah Berger.

2. Develop your skills: As a marketer, it's crucial to have a diverse skill set. Focus on developing skills in areas such as branding, social media marketing, content creation, data analysis, and digital advertising. Experiment with different tools and platforms to enhance your skills. For example, you can learn graphic design using tools like Adobe Photoshop or Canva to create visually appealing content.

3. Gain practical experience: While learning, it's important to gain hands-on experience. Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs in marketing departments or agencies. This will give you exposure to real-world marketing scenarios and help you apply your knowledge.

4. Build a strong online presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for a successful marketing career. Create professional profiles on platforms like LinkedIn and start building your network. Share your work, insights, and engage with others in the marketing community. Develop a personal brand that showcases your creativity and expertise.

5. Stay updated with industry trends: Marketing is an ever-evolving field, so it's essential to stay updated with the latest trends and strategies. Follow industry blogs, subscribe to marketing newsletters, and attend webinars or conferences to keep yourself informed. Some popular marketing blogs include Moz, HubSpot, and Neil Patel's blog.

6. Specialize in a niche: As you gain more experience, consider specializing in a specific niche within marketing. It could be social media marketing, content marketing, influencer marketing, or any other area that aligns with your interests and strengths. Specializing will help you stand out and become an expert in your chosen field.

7. Network and build relationships: Networking is vital in marketing. Attend industry events, join professional marketing associations, and connect with other professionals in the field. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and potential clients in the future.

8. Start your own firm: Once you have gained enough experience and feel confident in your skills, you can consider starting your own marketing firm. This step requires careful planning, including creating a business plan, defining your target market, setting pricing strategies, and establishing a strong brand identity. Seek advice from professionals or mentors who have experience in entrepreneurship or running their own marketing firm.

Remember, building a successful marketing career and starting your own firm takes time, effort, and continuous learning. Stay dedicated, be open to new opportunities, and keep refining your skills to achieve your goals.