Castling: The 2022 Gala Awards
Client: Colorado Companies to Watch
In the grand tournament of design, the 2022 Colorado Companies to Watch Annual Awards Gala presented a chessboard of creative opportunities. As the lead graphic designer, I found myself in a position akin to a seasoned chess player, each design element a piece to be moved with purpose and precision.
The typography, in particular, became my queen on this design board – versatile, powerful, and commanding attention. The interplay of bold, modern fonts with elegant, flowing scripts created a visual harmony that I’m particularly proud of. This typographic strategy set the tone for the entire event, from the striking main logo to the smallest details on name tags.
My design palette extended across a diverse array of materials – ads that served as opening gambits to capture interest, programs that detailed the middle game of the event, and signage that stood as endgame pieces, leaving a lasting impression. Each element, from table tents to large-scale banners, was crafted to move in concert, creating a cohesive visual experience.
The color scheme, a bold yet sophisticated blend, acted as the underlying strategy, unifying all pieces of the design. Deep blues and vibrant golds played off each other like well-matched opponents, creating depth and excitement in every application. This project stands out in my portfolio not just for its scope, but for the satisfaction of seeing all elements come together in a harmonious visual symphony.
Knight Moves: Betting on College Basketball
Client: Three Man Weave
Growing up playing basketball laid the foundation for my current passion as an avid college basketball bettor. During the season, these analysts are my go-to source for insights, bringing a wealth of basketball knowledge to the table.
In this dynamic game of odds and predictions, each bet is like a carefully planned play on the court. The analysts’ expertise helps me navigate the complexities of college basketball, allowing for informed decisions and strategic bets.
To show my appreciation for their guidance, I created an illustration of these fellows for their social media. This artwork captures their personalities and the value they bring to basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike.
Wing Gambit: 2022 Branding
Client: Colorado Companies to Watch
From 2018 to 2024, I served as the lead designer for Colorado Companies to Watch, spearheading the visual identity of this prestigious program. My role was multifaceted, encompassing the creation of all marketing materials and the development of a cohesive brand strategy.
I maintained and refreshed the website, ensuring it remained a vibrant showcase of Colorado’s innovative business landscape. Throughout each year, I crafted compelling advertisements that highlighted the program’s significance and attracted nominations from across the state.
The annual Awards Gala was the crown jewel of my efforts. For this event, I developed a distinctive visual identity that celebrated the achievements of Colorado’s most promising second-stage companies. This branding not only honored the winners but also underscored the program’s vital role in fostering economic growth statewide.
My design work was instrumental in raising the profile of Colorado Companies to Watch. It helped shine a spotlight on the diverse businesses driving job creation and economic vitality throughout Colorado’s communities. Through thoughtful and strategic design choices, I aimed to capture the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that defines this program and the companies it recognizes.
