Graphic Design

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Merch Branding Design & Illustration

Author: Sean H.

Case Study: Kentucky Branded – Elevating Local Pride through Unique Merchandise and Graphic Design

Overview: Kentucky Branded, a local merchandise company in Kentucky, has made a name for itself by offering a wide range of products featuring unique and eye-catching Kentucky-themed art and graphic design. Their product line includes T-shirts, mugs, and promotional sportswear, all of which celebrate the rich culture, history, and spirit of Kentucky. This case study explores how Kentucky Branded has successfully built its brand and expanded its product line through innovative branding and graphic design artwork.

Challenge: Kentucky Branded faced the challenge of creating a strong brand identity that would resonate with both locals and visitors. They needed to design artwork that was not only visually appealing but also captured the essence of Kentucky’s heritage. Additionally, they wanted to ensure that their products stood out in a competitive market and appealed to a broad audience.

Solution: To address these challenges, Kentucky Branded took a strategic approach to their branding and graphic design. They conducted thorough research on Kentucky’s history, symbols, and popular culture to gather inspiration for their artwork. They then worked with talented graphic designers to create original and authentic designs that truly represented Kentucky.

The company also focused on using high-quality materials for their products, ensuring that the artwork was printed clearly and would last for a long time. They paid close attention to detail in every aspect of the design and production process, from the color schemes and typography to the placement of the graphics on the products.

Results: Kentucky Branded’s commitment to quality and authenticity in their branding and graphic design artwork paid off. Their products quickly gained popularity, and the brand developed a strong reputation in the community. Customers appreciated the uniqueness of the designs and the quality of the products, leading to positive reviews and repeat business.

The company’s innovative approach to merchandise also allowed them to expand their product line and reach a wider audience. They introduced new products and designs regularly, keeping their inventory fresh and appealing to customers. As a result, Kentucky Branded saw a significant increase in sales and brand recognition.

Conclusion: Kentucky Branded’s success story highlights the power of strong branding and creative graphic design in building a unique and beloved brand. By staying true to their roots and focusing on quality and authenticity, Kentucky Branded has become a go-to source for Kentucky-themed merchandise, celebrating the state’s culture and heritage in every product they create.

Festival Map Design

Author: Sean H.

Crafting a Vibrant and User-Friendly Festival Map for the Big Four Arts Festival

Introduction:

The Big Four Arts Festival is a renowned annual event that draws artists, vendors, and art enthusiasts from across the region to celebrate creativity and community. With a sprawling venue and numerous attractions, the need for a clear, engaging, and informative festival map was paramount. This case study delves into how our design team collaborated with Big Four Arts Festival organizers to create a festival map that was not only a navigational tool but also an extension of the event’s vibrant atmosphere.

Client: Big Four Arts Festival Project: Festival Map Design

Goals and Objectives:

  1. Clarity: Ensure that the map is easy to read and understand, even for first-time festival-goers.
  2. Brand Consistency: Integrate the festival’s branding and aesthetic into the map design to create a seamless user experience.
  3. User Engagement: Design the map to be engaging and encourage exploration of all areas of the festival.
  4. Practicality: Include essential information such as restroom locations, first aid stations, food vendors, and stage locations.
  5. Digital Integration: Develop a digital version of the map that could be accessed via the festival’s mobile app.

Challenges:

  1. Complex Venue Layout: The festival’s layout was intricate, with numerous booths, stages, and amenities spread across a large area.
  2. Time Constraints: The map needed to be completed well in advance of the festival to ensure ample time for printing and distribution.

Process:

  1. Client Collaboration: Engaged in multiple discussions and planning sessions with the festival organizers to understand their vision and gather all necessary information.
  2. Initial Sketches: Developed a series of rough sketches to layout the basic structure and elements of the map.
  3. Design Iterations: Created multiple design iterations, incorporating feedback from the client at each stage.
  4. Branding Integration: Ensured that the festival’s color scheme, typography, and logos were seamlessly integrated into the map design.
  5. User Testing: Conducted user testing with a focus group to gather feedback on the map’s usability and design.
  6. Digital Integration: Worked with the festival’s app developers to integrate the map into their mobile platform.
  7. Finalization and Delivery: Made final adjustments based on user testing and client feedback, and delivered the final versions of both the print and digital maps.

Results:

The Big Four Arts Festival map was enthusiastically received by both the festival organizers and attendees. The clear layout, vibrant design, and inclusion of all essential information made navigation easy, enhancing the overall festival experience. The digital version of the map also saw significant usage, showcasing the success of the integrated approach.

Conclusion:

The collaboration between our design team and the Big Four Arts Festival organizers resulted in a festival map that was not just a tool, but a valuable part of the event experience. The successful melding of practicality, brand consistency, and engaging design ensured that festival-goers could easily navigate and fully enjoy all that the event had to offer. This project underscored the importance of thoughtful design and user-centric planning in creating effective navigational materials for large-scale events.

Cultural District Branding, Marketing, and Merchandise

Author: Sean H.

The Bourbon District in Louisville, Kentucky, is a prime example of how integrated marketing and branding strategies can revitalize a walkable district, enhancing its appeal to both locals and tourists. With a rich history intertwined with the bourbon industry, the district offers an array of distilleries, bourbon-themed shopping, tours, and historical sites, making it a unique destination for bourbon enthusiasts worldwide. This case study highlights the comprehensive approach taken by our team to brand, market, and promote the Bourbon District, focusing on place-making initiatives, merchandise development, and digital marketing strategies to fuel economic development in the region.

Place-making for the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation of a Walkable Business District

Background

The Bourbon District is home to historic businesses like Vendome, a renowned maker of copper stills, and is a major tourism attraction in Louisville. Recognizing the potential for economic advancement through tourism, the local Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation sought to enhance the district’s branding and marketing efforts to attract more visitors and encourage longer stays.

Project Overview

Our team was tasked with creating a cohesive branding and marketing strategy for the Bourbon District. The project aimed to increase visibility, improve wayfinding, and create memorable experiences for visitors, thereby supporting local businesses and promoting economic development.

Strategies and Implementations

1. Branding and Identity Development

  • Trademarked Domain and Recognizable Mark: We assisted in purchasing a trademarked domain name for the district and created a recognizable mark that symbolizes the Bourbon District’s unique identity. This mark was prominently displayed on banners throughout downtown Louisville, establishing a strong visual presence.

2. Digital Marketing

  • Dedicated Website: A dedicated website was developed to serve as a central marketing hub for all participating bourbon locations within the district. The website features comprehensive information about tours, shopping, dining, and historical attractions, making it easy for visitors to plan their visit.

3. Place-making and Wayfinding

  • Maps and Brochures: Custom maps of the district were designed for brochures, enhancing the visitor experience by providing a tangible guide to explore the area.
  • Wall Murals and Building Wrap: A full building wrap mural was created to encourage visitors to take selfies and share their experiences on social media, thereby organically promoting the district.
  • Historic Map Markers and Wayfinding Maps: Updated historic map markers and wayfinding maps were installed at every corner, improving navigation throughout the district. Ground stickers were also employed to guide visitors to key attractions.

4. Merchandise Development

  • A complete set of merchandise was developed to enhance the tourism experience, allowing visitors to take a piece of the Bourbon District home with them. This range included items that captured the essence of the district, further promoting the brand beyond its geographical boundaries.

Outcomes

The comprehensive branding, marketing, and merchandise strategy implemented for the Bourbon District has had a significant impact on its economic development. Key outcomes include:

  • Increased Visitor Engagement: The interactive and visually appealing marketing materials, such as the mural and wayfinding signs, have significantly increased visitor engagement and social media presence.
  • Enhanced Visitor Experience: The provision of detailed maps and a dedicated website has made it easier for tourists to navigate the district, resulting in longer stays and increased spending in local businesses.
  • Strengthened Brand Identity: The creation of a unique mark and the widespread use of branded merchandise have strengthened the Bourbon District’s identity, making it a recognizable destination for bourbon enthusiasts globally.

Conclusion

The Bourbon District’s branding, marketing, and merchandise project demonstrates the power of integrated place-making strategies in promoting economic development. By creating a cohesive brand identity, enhancing digital and physical wayfinding, and developing a range of merchandise, our team was able to significantly improve the visitor experience, thereby contributing to the district’s economic success. This case study serves as a model for other economic development corporations and chambers of commerce looking to revitalize and promote their districts.

Artists Portfolio Website Design

Author: Sean H.

An art portfolio website is essential to making sure that you maximize all opportunities to gain and increase an audience for your artwork. Art portfolio websites connect your natural ability to your target clients and what they are looking for. An art portfolio website usually represents some or all of a carefully curated collection of art and example work, and it’s a great place to explore the critiques of the art pieces and movements. We loved having the opportunity to work with Valerie to create a style, look, feel and function for her artist website that really complemented and highlighted her diverse portfolio of styles and let her work really stand out.

About TIMMONS ART: Valerie Timmons is a Louisville-based artist whose genre-spanning work includes landscape, portraiture, still life, minimalism, and geometric abstraction. While her paintings may vary wildly in style and even mood, their unifying tonal element is a rich emotional resonance that finds as much beauty in the turbulence of a non-representational tempest of form and color as it does in the clean-lined serenity of a still life.

Wholesale Website Design

Author: Sean H.

About Falls City Lumber: Falls City Lumber is a full service specialty wholesale lumber company providing quality products from quality suppliers since 1985. We pride ourselves on our incomparable ability to offer quality lumber and specialty products at a very competitive price.

Festival Ad Designs

Author: Sean H.

We have been a proud sponsor of the Big four Art Festival for seven years, and we love to see how the community has embraced and supported local arts. From the very first year, when we had the most highly attended event recorded at the Big Four Bridge lawn through a few rainstorms and even COVID, it has started strong and grown to be the highlight event we look forward to kicking off festival season every year.

Tourism and City Visitor Map Design

Author: Sean H.

Designing a visitor map for Louisville, Kentucky’s Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) involves a strategic and thoughtful approach that benefits various stakeholders including local retail, tourism, wayfinding, corporate partnerships, and overall Louisville business development. Here’s a detailed case study:

Project Overview

Client: Louisville, Kentucky
Project: Downtown BID Visitor Map Design
Objective: To create an informative and user-friendly map highlighting local businesses, restaurants, entertainment, hotels, and hospitality services provided by the BID.

Research and Analysis

  1. Stakeholder Assessments: Collect data from local business owners, hotel managers, and tourism officials to provide accurate data and provide what they hoped the map would achieve.
  2. User Studies: Gathering information from tourists and locals about their navigation challenges and interests in the downtown area.
  3. Competitive Analysis: Reviewing existing maps and visitor guides from similar districts in other cities for best practices.

Design Strategy

  1. Content Selection: The map includes prominent local businesses, popular restaurants, key entertainment venues, and hotels. Each category is color-coded for ease of identification.
  2. Wayfinding Elements: Clear street names, landmarks, pedestrian pathways, and public transportation hubs are highlighted to assist navigation.
  3. Accessibility: The map is designed for print and digital use, ensuring accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities.

Benefits

  1. Local Retail: By featuring local shops and boutiques, the map drives foot traffic and supports local commerce.
  2. Tourism Enhancement: Tourists benefit from a comprehensive guide to the city’s attractions, increasing their likelihood of extended stays and repeat visits.
  3. Wayfinding Improvement: The map simplifies navigation, reducing the stress of exploring a new city and enhancing visitor experiences.
  4. Corporate Partnership Opportunities: Local businesses can be featured on the map or advertise it, creating resources for the BID and promotional opportunities for businesses.
  5. Boost to Louisville Business: A well-designed map can be a tool for economic development, encouraging investment and interest in the Downtown BID area.

Implementation and Distribution

  1. Production: The map is produced in both print and digital formats, ensuring wide accessibility.
  2. Distribution Points: Maps are distributed at key entry points to the city, including the airport, hotels, visitor centers, and participating businesses.
  3. Online Presence: A digital version is available on the Louisville BID website and through a dedicated mobile webpage.

Evaluation and Feedback

  1. User Feedback: Regular surveys of map users to assess its effectiveness and areas for improvement.
  2. Business Feedback: Ongoing dialogue with local businesses to measure the impact on foot traffic and sales.
  3. Analytics Tracking: For the digital version, usage analytics help understand user behavior and preferences.

Conclusion

The Louisville Downtown BID visitor map represents a significant step in enhancing the visitor experience, supporting local businesses, and promoting the district as a vibrant and welcoming destination. Its strategic design and thoughtful implementation are crucial in realizing these benefits. Continued evaluation and adaptation will ensure the map remains an effective tool for visitors and locals alike.

Brand Guidelines Document

Author: Sean H.

The Louisville Downtown Partnership (LDP) sought to enhance its presence and effectiveness in promoting economic growth and community engagement within Louisville, Kentucky’s downtown area. Recognizing the need for a cohesive brand identity and a strategic marketing approach, LDP initiated the development of comprehensive brand guidelines and a marketing strategy tailored to the unique characteristics and opportunities of the business improvement district.

Brand Guidelines Document and Marketing Strategy for Louisville Downtown Partnership

Objectives

  • Establish a unified brand identity for the Louisville Downtown Partnership.
  • Develop and implement a marketing strategy to increase engagement among businesses, residents, and visitors.
  • Promote the downtown area as a vibrant destination for work, leisure, and investment.

Approach

Brand Guidelines Development

1. Research and Analysis: Conducted thorough research on the district’s demographics, cultural landmarks, and economic trends to ensure the brand identity resonated with all stakeholders.

2. Visual Identity Creation: Designed a visual identity system, including a logo, color palette, typography, and imagery guidelines, that reflected the heritage and dynamism of downtown Louisville.

3. Brand Voice and Messaging: Defined a brand voice that was inclusive, inviting, and representative of the diverse community, alongside messaging that highlighted the unique value proposition of the district.

Marketing Strategy Implementation

1. Digital Marketing: Launched a comprehensive digital marketing campaign leveraging social media, email marketing, and a revamped website to promote events, business opportunities, and community news.

2. Community Engagement: Organized events and initiatives that encouraged local participation and showcased downtown Louisville’s vibrancy, leveraging partnerships with local businesses and cultural institutions.

3. Public Relations and Advertising: Employed targeted public relations and advertising efforts to raise awareness of the district’s offerings and attract investment from outside the region.

Results

  • Increased Engagement: The implementation of the brand guidelines and marketing strategy resulted in a significant increase in engagement from businesses, residents, and visitors, as evidenced by social media interactions and event attendance.
  • Cohesive Brand Identity: The new visual identity and brand voice were well received, enhancing LDP’s reputation and ensuring consistency across all communications.
  • Economic Growth: The marketing efforts contributed to an uptick in economic activity within the district, including new business openings and increased investment.

Conclusion

The brand guidelines document and marketing strategy developed for the Louisville Downtown Partnership successfully strengthened the organization’s brand identity and fostered a more engaged and vibrant downtown community. This case study demonstrates the importance of a well-crafted brand and strategic marketing in promoting business improvement districts. Through thoughtful analysis, creative branding, and targeted marketing initiatives, LDP has set a benchmark for transforming urban spaces into thriving community hubs.

Homeowners Association Website Design

Author: Sean H.

A great HOA website design connects neighbors, board members, and management teams through user-friendly, proven, and collaborative website tools for enhanced community living. A well-built HOA website allows you to meet and connect with your neighbors, manage resident and admin accounts, and share information about the resources you share in your community.

About the Woodlake Homeowners Association: Woodlake is a growing subdivision that is located one mile west of Bardstown Road on Highway 44 in Mt. Washington. It is comprised of 8 sections, including Single-Family Homes, Patio Homes, Condominiums (also called Garden Homes), and Inspirations of Mount Washington, A Grace Management Community. There are two private lakes, a waterfall, a clubhouse, and a pool. Any resident who owns property in Woodlake belongs to the Homeowner’s Association as well as their respective association.