• Road ID – Branding Done Right

    I recently purchased an item at Road ID (https://www.roadid.com/) and I was completely blown away by how on point and how consistent their branding is. They are an ID company that makes IDs and medical IDs for active people, kids, pets. Not only does their branding speak to the whole active lifestyle/outdoor aesthetic, but it’s also has a really friendly vibe. Bravo to their designers. Here are some examples: WEBSITE: It’s not that hard in this day and age to have a brand consistent landing page. What you don’t see as often is brand continuity through all the other fine points. Their Contact Page is a case in point. I…

  • Staying Creative

    How do you stay creative? First, don’t get burned out – and know that there will be times when your creativity ebbs. It happens. Don’t beat yourself up. It will come back. Take a break if you need to. Secondly, try to figure out if you are, what is termed in psychological parlance, as “early starter” or “pressure-prompted” which mean exactly how they sound. I’m an early starter. I’m more creative when I do things ahead of time with less pressure. I have several family members who are extraordinarily creative only if doing things at the last possible moment, so everyone is different. Work to your strengths when you can.…

  • Inspiring Stuff

    Here is a list of some of the top 10 things that inspire me and keep the creativity going… Reading – everything and anything Music – from all over the world Being outside – preferably either in the woods or near water Gardens – especially with quirky sculptures, hidden treasures Rain – in all its forms Children – who see the world in a unique way Art – I love galleries – not to see the famous works but to spend time with undiscovered pieces that are new to me. Sunshine – I’m a warm weather person – If I can be barefoot, I’m happy Food – particularly from different…

  • Time to Unplug

    As a freelancer I am my company. It’s just me and I have to wear all hats – designer, admin, marketing person, customer contact, file clerk, etc.  As such, I shut the studio down completely a couple of times a year for a week – or two – depending on workload, what else is happening around me, etc. to recharge. I have been asked why I would do this. Don’t I feel I’m jeopardizing the business? Shouldn’t I be available all the time? The answer to all this is no. It’s not sustainable. In addition to the company, I’m a wife and mom and while I have teens at home,…