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Package Design ︎︎︎
Illustration ︎︎︎
Branding & Collateral ︎︎︎


LE BELGE / Le Voyage Collection




SHORT BRIEF.
Create an ultra-premium retail collection targeting premium boutique retail shops, Napa Valley wineries (Napa CA is the home of Le Belge), and high-end hotels.
WHAT WE DID.
Research and concept development, the creation of flavor profiles with Marketing and R&D, and of course the design of the [sustainable] packaging and visual system, complete with new chocolate molds.  


































LINDT USA / Classic Recipe




THE BRIEF.
Lindt is expanding their range of products for Classic Recipe beyond bars and into other formats like spreads, individual wrapped pieces, and the Non-Dairy category.  In each case, the objective is to extend the current Classic Recipe design language to these new products while utilizing the equities of the brand to ensure consistency and strengthen recognition on-shelf.
WHAT WE DID.
We worked with the Classic Recipe Brand Marketing team to determine which elements in the existing bar design architecture had to remain and those that could be removed. The result was a relatively flexible design system that allowed for necessary adaptations while maintaining key brand assets.  






Lindt Classic Recipe’s core bar range set the design standard as we explored how the design architecture would adapt to new packaging formats and with new product innovations.





Lindt Classic Recipe + Gold Bar



Lindt Classic Recipe - Les Grande Bars (whole nuts)


Lindt Classic Recipe - Panned






Lindt Classic Recipe - Hazelnut Spread





Lindt Classic Recipe - Holiday Pieces Pouch & Sticks with PDQ




Lindt Classic Recipe - S’mores Promotional Mailer



Mailer Insert





DYLAN’S / Color Wheel & Swatches




SHORT BRIEF.
In a meeting with Dylan's product development and creative teams, they floated the idea of a chocolate color wheel to showcase their full range of flavored squares.
WHAT WE DID.
Structural concepts and development of the outer PET circular structure, the inner tray, and label.  







Working closely with one of our partner factories in southern China throughout development and was present during the initial production run. Below are a few of the pictures from the factory and of the early prototypes.




   

Initial prototypes. 


At the same time the ‘Chocolate Wheel’ was being developed, the ‘Chocolate Swatches’ packaging was also underway.  





LAS VEGAS / Iconic Collection



SHORT BRIEF.
Develop a sleek, on-trend aesthetic designed to captured the essence of the nightlife in Vegas and NY, and targeting men and women aged 20 - 40.
WHAT WE DID.
Developed new folding box and tin structures in conjunction with Mike Boos who handled the graphic design. This collection for New York & Vegas, the 'Vegas Style Card Deck' Tins were awarded Gold at the annual ADCNJ awards ceremony.  



 














LINDT - LINDOR / Valentine’s Day Heart Range



THE BRIEF.
The previous collection of Lindt / LINDOR Valentine’s Hearts had been on the market for 6+ years and needed a refresh.  The brief called for designs that would sit alongside LINDOR’s new seasonal graphics, for a cohesive on-shelf expression of the brand.  The target demo was men and women, between 25 and 54.  The design needed to meet all brand and regulatory requirements for both the (3) LINDOR and (4) Lindt branded hearts.  

WHAT WE DID.
We provided a competitive overview, and trend research that identified a few [stylistic] approaches which would support their new seasonal designs.  Their team chose the watercolor floral direction. Our creative process allowed for collaboration and feedback to be integrated, so we ended up with final designs that the Lindt team was proud to share with their customers.






︎  photos courtesy of Lindt USA



THE PROCESS.
After aligning with the marketing team on the creative direction and a series of floral swipes, Melanie developed custom watercolor paintings that would pair nicely with Lindor’s new seasonal artwork.  Below are the original scans, before the art was cleaned up and used to create the design.

We worked through a few compositions, while providing recommendations on how special [printing] processes could be integrated, using a combination of 3D renderings & mechanical layouts.  The flowers were accented with thin, offset line art in gold foil. We applied spot gloss and embossing throughout the art on the small heart graphics and flowers to help the art shine on shelf and provide some tactile features.














︎  photos courtesy of Lindt USA




THE RESULT.
We delivered final Lindor heart designs within 3 weeks. This required 2 rounds of [minimal] revisions to finalize and deliver print-ready artwork for Lindor.  We also provided creative / art direction for their Formal Gifting range of hearts (a mix of various praline truffles - 4 skus).

The hearts have been successfully selling for several years now and have made their way around the world and of course onto instagram.




IN-STORE VISUALIZATIONS.
Our design services also include the creation of compelling in-store visualizations. These 3D renderings capture the context of the customer’s unique store environment, and are intended to inspire and spark discussion between a buyer and your sales & marketing team.





2023 Cart display at Target - front.


2023 Cart display at Target - back.



2022 On-shelf at Walgreens.



On-shelf at our local grocery store.






NALGENE / Astronaut Athlete Series


SHORT BRIEF.

The team at Nalgene engaged us to conduct trend research for content, design and illustrative styles to be developed into new bottle collections targeting Nalgene’s three core demograhics. Their team intentionally left the brief open and flexible during the research phase.  For their On-The-Fly 12 oz bottle the target was children, aged 6-10.  



WHAT WE DID.
Altogether we identified 20 distinct trends that fit within the overarching design strategy. Five of those trends targeted the 6-10 age group. Through close collaboration with their marketing team, we narrowed down to the two illustrative concepts that best fit the aesthetic and tone of the brand. The Astronaut Athletes theme made the final cut.








THE PROCESS.
An integral part of our process is using rough concept sketches to align with our clients prior to developing refined illustrations or designs. It’s a great way to collaborate, allowing them to share their expertise and provide input for the creative direction of a project. This process is very efficient and allows us to move forward with minimal adjustments in the art development phase. Bottom line - we work side-by-side with our clients to ensure alignment throughout the creative process.






Final Illustrations



Final 3D Renderings


The illustrations were also
developed into bottle stickers.




THE RESULT.
The Astronaut Athlete series launched on time, as part of their back-to-school promotion.  There are some great online reviews like this:


“Like all Nalgene products this is a well made bottle. Waterproof and strong. The cap closes well. The print on it is very beautiful and will make my little boy happy. We have several Nalgene products and as usual we are not disappointed.”











NALGENE / Retro Collection



SHORT BRIEF.
The marketing team at engaged us to conduct trend research on content, design and illustrative styles to be developed into new bottle collections over the next few years.  One of several target groups was professionals (24+) and the work for this key demo focused around their iconic 32oz bottles. The Nalgene team intentionally left the brief open and flexible during the research phase.


WHAT WE DID.
Altogether we identified 20 distinct trends that fit within their design strategy, 4 of which were aimed at the 24+ age group. With their marketing team’s input we narrowed down to the 5 illustrative concepts that best fit their long-term design strategy for the brand across a range of target audiences.  The Retro collection below is one of those 5 selected design directions.

Project Deliverables:
• Trend Research & Analysis
• Custom Illustrations
• 3D Renderings [Adobe Dimension + Photoshop]

• Production Art setup








RESEARCH + ALIGNMENT SKETCHES
A key part of our process is using preliminary concept sketches to align with our clients prior to developing refined illustrations. It’s a great way to collaborate with the client, allowing them to share their expertise and make key decisions for the illustrations that ultimately become an expression of their brand.

We’re also typically working on short timelines, so it’s crucial that we get the work correct in the first pass or with minimal adjustments. We bring the client along on the creative journey, which ensures alignment along the way.









SOCIAL MEDIA
As Nalgene brand loyalists purchased their new bottles, they posted on social media to show off their new score.  Plus some Nalgene brand posts!










NALGENE’S WEBSITE






ADD’L SOCIAL POSTS




NALGENE / DSG’s Workout Bottles



THE BRIEF.

Develop various bottle collections to pitch to Dick’s Sporting Goods. Their Marketing team provided specific briefs, one of which focused on motivational sayings for those of you heading to the gym to get pumped up.

WHAT WE DID.
With research, we offered a variety of styles for the type treatment as well as a mix of proverbs to get folks psyched up to visit the gym and sweat. The Nalgene team ultimately landed on the final versions below.  

Project Deliverables:
• Trend Research & Analysis
• Custom Type Treatments
• 3D Renderings [Adobe Dimension + Photoshop]
• Production File setup





OXYBUL / Mosaic Foam Activity




SHORT BRIEF.

The mosaic foam activity is an art and craft activity for 5-8 year olds. Illustrations were based on a brief provided by Oxybul.  Develop Jungle - Tropical illustrations for the foam activity that align closely to the OXybul brand aesthetic.

Technical challenges:
Using 6 different colors for the mosaic pieces to place throughout each illustration. Place approximately 30 mosaic pieces in each illustration.
WHAT WE DID.
After researching and providing recommendations, Melanie collaborated with the Oxybul Product Development and Marketing team to determine which animals would resonate best with 5-8 year olds.

Project Deliverables:
• Research and recommendations for types of animals.
• 8 animal illustrations, with mosaic foam placement.
• 2 repeat patterns to use with the packaging system.

















TARGET + LINDT / In-store visualizations



SHORT BRIEF.
We regularly collaborate with the Lindt’s Sales & Marketing teams to create inspirational display renderings to be shared with Target buyers.  As a category leader, it’s important that Lindt guides and inspires the buyer with merchandising concepts for new product launches and fresh seasonal programs.  Some concepts are very Lindt-forward, while others look to elevate the premium category as a whole.
WHAT WE DID.
We developed Target store environments to provide context for the renderings, helping the viewer to immediately feel at home in the Target store setting.  For each of the merchandising options, we collaborate with the Lindt Shopper Marketing team on product placements and signage development.  We typically work through a series of alignment sketches combined with inspiration, before moving onto final renderings.

Project Deliverables:
  • Endcap concept renderings
  • In-Aisle concept renderings
  • Cart and Tower concept renderings
  • Floor Display concept renderings
  • Stand-alone Display / 4-way Display concept renderings





Endcaps: Seasonal / Rotational







Seasonal: Valentine’s Day








Seasonal: Easter






Seasonal: Holiday








Stand-Alone 4-way Displays, Mixed Product



A nice win for the Lindt team!  Production samples of displays at Lindt Sales office in Minneapolis.

Text rec’d from our client:

Wanted to show you the Target 4-way come to life!  This is going to be implemented into Target this year. Beautiful work! The Target buyer loves it!





Premium Chocolate Category Rendering, in-aisle structural & signage concepts






Total Category, Go Big signage concepts



KROGER + LINDT / In-store visualizations



SHORT BRIEF.
Develop Go Big Easter concepts for National Landscape with a specific focus on Kroger.  We were to develop Go Big Easter Dress Up Kits for Endcaps, and a signage system for the floor display program.  All of this was to be rendered in situ (the store environment).
WHAT WE DID.
We collaborated with the Lindt Shopper Marketing team on product placement (POG) and signage development. We worked through a series of alignment sketches combined with inspiration, before moving onto final renderings. Lastly, both a Kroger specific store environment and a (universal) National environment were created to provide context for the renderings.  

Project Deliverables:
  • Go Big Endcap - signage design & concept renderings
  • Go Big Floor Display - signage design & concept renderings
  • Everyday Endcap - Mainstream & Premium product mix





Endcaps: Easter Seasonal, National & Kroger store environments






Endcaps: Easter Seasonal








CVS + LINDT / Endcaps & Displays




SHORT BRIEF.

These renderings were developed in partnership with Lindt USA's Customer Marketing Team for meetings with CVS.  We always learn something new when working through these projects.  We understand more about Lindt’s brand and merchandising strategy, which helps us provide relevant design solutions and allows us to move efficiently through the creative process.  
WHAT WE DID.
To begin the process, we combine competitive research with inspiration and initial concept sketches.  Once we’ve agreed on a direction, we start to execute the renderings.  For some of these projects we work exclusively in the Adobe Suite - primarily in Photoshop.  For others we use 3D software to create the display, and then bring the finished rendering into Photoshop to add context.  





Permanent Premium Gifting Endcap
The endcap design below is currently being tested in 500 CVS stores nationwide.  The goal was to provide an update to the existing (outdated) display, while integrating key strategic marketing initiatives that speak directly to consumers needs.





Seasonal Joint Brand Floor Display
Lindt & 19 Crimes  



Seasonal Joint Brand Endcap
Lindt + Josh Wines + L’Oreal + Hallmark 





BANK OF AMERICA / Advanced Center Design


SHORT BRIEF.
In 2019, we supported Winter Holben, a Maine-based agency that works with Bank of America’s in-house Store Design team. We helped the BofA team develop and implement their ‘Future Vision’ plan to transform and elevate the look of the branded environment. Our focus was on the Bank’s Advanced Centers along with a few key flagship Financial Centers.  Additionally, we supported their merchandising team as they rolled out a newly updated brand identity across much of their financial centers, and remote ATMs.

WHAT WE DID.
We collaborated closely with their team to develop a versatile wayfinding system aimed at elevating the consumer experience and modernizing the Bank’s brand aesthetic within the built environment. To gain buy-in from their leadership team, we provided renderings to help them visualize the new design concept.  We developed custom patterns for wallcoverings, and provided detailed elevations to guide their production team through installation.





Initial Test Site in Chicago

Before & After Renderings (Ps)


Photos from install


Vendor Guide was created to help organize the install




Our very first rendering based on initial design direction
We introduced spot gloss finishes for a few of the banks existing patterns. Their ‘fleck pattern’ was applied to the matte black walls as a high gloss wall covering - a subtle effect, that looks sharp when it reflects the light within the environment.





Completed Test Site in Brooklyn.
Based on creative direction from the Store Design team, we created a few proprietary patterns which were developed as wall coverings and dimensional panels.  The white pattern below is a faux dimensional pattern intended to complement their logo, while establishing a contemporary feel within the environment.  

We also developed a large (4’x8’) repeating wood grain pattern to be applied as wallcovering.  Capturing the tone and grain of the wood which matched other interior wood finishes was challenging, but the end result was a very refined pattern that elevated the look of the interiors.




Privacy Film
In 2018 Bank of America rebranded.  Part of our role was to find creative ways to adapt the patterns developed by the agency responsible for the rebranding into the environment. 




Interchangeable signage system
We developed a few concepts for a changeable signage system.  The option below was implemented throughout key financial centers nationwide.







TARGET + LINDT / Endcap Concepts


SHORT BRIEF.

In partnership with Lindt USA's Customer Marketing Team for a planning meeting with Target we developed a variety of endcap and aisle visualizations. The brief asked for big ideas that would draw customers to the candy aisle from across the store, and which needed to represent the total confection category (not shown is additional wayfinding signage that would be included throughout the store).
WHAT WE DID.

Prior to landing on the Candy Cart and the European Candy/Chocolate Boutique concepts, we researched and sketched out a few other ideas. Displaying the endcap & products (without color) in sketch format, allows the merchandising concept to be the focus of the conversation. It allows the buyer to view an idea that's not finalized and can evolve with their input.











Following the meeting, we rec'd this note from
the Head of Lindt's Customer Marketing Team:


"We just wrapped up our Target meetings. They went very well, and your renderings 'nailed it'. They were received very well and stimulated great discussion. Thanks a lot for all your work on this project."




Go︎
Mark

NANAT / Brand Design




SHORT BRIEF.
Brand Design. Craft a brand targeting new parents (25-40) and gift-givers (30-65) looking for uniquely designed baby blankets that children and adults can enjoy for both the artistic quality and the premium material.
WHAT WE DID.
Before the design work began, we developed a brand roadmap which outlined nanat’s brand values, personality, message, tone, and more.  From that roadmap, a concept for the brand’s visual expression emerged - elements of that work are shown below.

Brand Identity. The ‘nanat’ wordmark conveys an elegant yet playful feel. The visual system is both consistent and flexible, allowing for a cohesive rollout to various digital channels and print formats.

Visit the storefront > nanatbaby.com




Identity Design









Secondary marks, social media badges, and icons






Seasonal logo treatment - spring promotion concept




Collateral mockup


Brand Guidelines, Color and Typography




Desktop and mobile mockups - visit the storefront nanatbaby.com







Blanket + Baby brand visuals
Photography by Matt & Mel’s






Digital Carousel - Shopify, Etsy





Packaging - Premium Giftbox (1PC), e-commerce exclusive

Primary structure is made with Mohawk’s 100% PC ultra-white uncoated paperboard with a beautiful clear foil stamp applied to the logo.  Custom tissue, inner sticker, and marketing inserts are made from 100% recycled materials and use soy inks.






Packaging - Luxury Keepsake Giftbox (3PC), e-commerce exclusive

Rigid structure uses 100% recycled chipboard, and outer paper wrap made with FSC certified paper. Custom tissue, inner sticker, and marketing inserts are made from 100% recycled materials and use soy inks.







FLOCK DESIGN HOUSE / Brand Identity & Collateral




SHORT BRIEF.
Interior Designers Anita Magyar & Kristin Peterson-Damle were looking for an identity system that captured the spirit of their new firm. They wanted a dynamic visual language that told their story - it needed to be rebellious and energetic, yet sophisticated and reflective of their eclectic style.
WHAT WE DID.
One of the highlights of the project was designing their letter-pressed business cards, made by Studio on Fire. The custom size, ultra-heavy matte stock, blind embossed front, and the metallic ink used to decorate both sides and the edges, all come together to make a powerful statement about their brand. Without saying a word, the cards reinforce a critical piece of Flock's brand message - a relentless commitment to quality and total dedication to style.

Project Deliverables:
• Logo design
• Stationary, business cards
• Trade show postcards and folders
• Office and Trade Show signage








  
 
      





NORTH 8th / Logo Design




SHORT BRIEF.
Logo Design for a start-up women's clothing & accessory design company based in L.A. Owners Kalyna Kutny & Sarah Durlacher were looking to explore logos that captured the personality of their young yet elegant style, while conveying a level of sophistication.
WHAT WE DID.
We worked through a variety of hand-drawn options and ended up with the hand-scripted primary & secondary logomarks seen here. Also shown is a small part of the exploratory process using sharpies on kraft paper. 















LINDT USA CORPORATE/ Branding & Collateral




SHORT BRIEF.
One of the most rewarding projects was an overhaul of the Human Resource department's communication materials, and the subsequent marketing campaigns. The project was complex in terms of scope, timeline, and the expectations for creative - the aesthetic had to ladder back to the Lindt parent brand, but in a contemporary way that satisfied the client (HR) and would gain approval from Marketing.
WHAT WE DID.
In the end, the project which included a dedicated Careers web site, an Employee Handbook, an Employee Benefits Guide, and several other printed and digital assets for recruiting purposes, was very well-received.
I had the pleasure of working with the very talented Gabi Hale on this project. Gabi supported by further developing our approved look and feel and adapting that across a wide range of printed collateral. We ended up with a dynamic yet cohesive identity system for Lindt Careers.

Visit the new Careers site











LINDT - LINDOR / Everyday Photoshoot



THE BRIEF.
We worked in close collaboration with the Lindor Brand team to develop a series of everyday brand assets that could be used across POS, social media, and for other digital and print applications.
WHAT WE DID.
We ideated on shots for sharing and hosting, personal indulgence, and gifting occasions. In addition to contributing concepts for the shoot, we delivered a pre-production brief that included the following:

• research and inspiration for each of the desired shots
• sketches illustrating how each shot would be composed
• sketches of how each shot would be placed on POS
• prop research and guide
• general guidance for lighting + styling notes
• overall color pallet for the shoot








  
PRE-PRODUCTION PLANNING  A tremendous amount planning goes into these shoots, but it's critical to getting the best results.  If done properly all of the stakeholders have a clear idea of how each shot will be executed and an opportunity to provide feedback (prior to the shoot). Once we aligned internally, we ran all of the planning by our photographer and prop/food stylist in advance of the shoot to allow for their input as well. As a result, the shoot went smoothly, and the finished images were well-received by Brand.

 
 














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