About

Creating professional branding, packaging, and collateral design for 23 plus years

I have my grandmother to thank for my career in graphic design.

Knowing that I wanted to study a discipline in the Arts she said “I will only help pay for your college if you study Graphic Design”, so naturally, that’s what I did. I figured she knew something I didn’t and although at the time I really would have preferred to study fashion design or fine art, I am full of gratitude for her grandmotherly wisdom. It has allowed me to be the artist that I am in a professional environment while at the same time, affording me the means to help provide for my family. As for fashion and fine art, I seek out and find ways to include them in my world whenever possible.

In 1996 I graduated from the Academy of Art with a BA in Graphic Design. Immediately upon graduation I was offered a job as a graphic designer with a well-known and successful design firm in San Francisco called Primo Angeli. During my five-plus years at Primo I was able to hone my branding, packaging, and collateral skills and work alongside amazing teams. When my first child was born in 2002 I decided to become a freelance designer so that I could work from home. For the following 15-plus years I had been fortunate enough to be the Senior Designer/Creative Director (simultaneously) for two separate and established brands; Mary’s Gone Crackers and Three Twins Ice Cream.

In 2006, my wonderful husband, awesome two children and I moved to Petaluma, CA. The community and culture within and around Petaluma has become near and dear to our hearts. Prior to moving there we lived in Marin County, the place I call home. We love to spend time together as a family, enjoy the great outdoors, and appreciate the experience that travel can provide.

When there is time, the activities I enjoy most are hiking, sailing, and exploring the arts. We own a small sailboat named Seabiscuit which is docked in Sausalito, CA. In retirement we hope to do some sailboat cruising and explore some of the planets oceans. I also appreciate taking the time to stay connected to the artist in me by taking on art projects when they present themselves.

PS: I don’t take myself too seriously.

Resume

Skill-sets that help me standout as a designer:

Printing Knowledge
I have an extensive background in printing and the printing process, which helps me create effective, practical designs. I have the skills, that enable me to communicate well with production, and have attended countless press checks. My understanding gives my clients the confidence they need that their finished product will be successful and withstand the test of print and production.
Photography Set Support
I am comfortable attending photo-shoots and managing project assignments on and off set. Food photography is an area I am particularly familiar with. I have organized, supported and led numerous photo-shoots and at times have needed to rely on my instinctive skills for set and food styling.

Hands-on approach
Whenever there is the opportunity to, I truly enjoy designing, engineering, and creating tangible products such as 3D comps to support a brands visual story.
Positive can-do attitude
Even though things are not always easy, I like to stay positive as it helps me get through the moments of struggle.
Problem Solving Skills
Coming up with multiple solutions is something that I enjoy doing. Bouncing ideas around together as a team is fun to me.
Good Listener
Listening closely to my clients and to their needs of a project help me to design with intention and thoughtfulness. These are important qualities to me.