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Package Design ︎︎︎
Illustration ︎︎︎
Branding & Collateral ︎︎︎

L’OR / Iced Coffee Packaging



SHORT BRIEF.
Develop an adaptation of the existing coffee capsule packaging system that would differentiate the launch of Iced Coffee Packaging and Iced Coffee Capsules. While the initial launch was for Black Iced, we also needed to consider how this might extend to Flavored Iced Coffee.  Brand guardrails were defined along with elements that were open to exploration.  
WHAT WE DID.
We collaborated closely with L’OR’s marketing and creative team from concept to final artwork, applying our process to adapt their existing design system in a way that accentuates the uniqueness of the Iced series and allows for growth into flavors and seasons. The box is currently available in the UK and France only - sorry to our American friends, you‘ll just have to take that long overdue Paris ︎ trip to try this one out...

Project Deliverables:
  • Iced Coffee Package Design 
  • Iced Coffee Capsule Design
  • Package and Capsule renderings



Phase 1: Initial concepting and solving design challenges


To start the process, we worked through a series of rough sketches in order to quickly share potential solutions to get an initial round of feedback from the product development and creative teams. 

We wanted to keep the focus of the conversation on design hierarchy and how to best incorporate the Barista and iced glas, so color wasn’t added at this stage.  We did provide direction through inspirational imagery, allowing the marketing team to provide feedback on color and style.




Once we had feedback on the initial concepts, the sketches were refined and shared with L’OR’s leadership team.



In addition to the packaging, we explored designs for the ICED coffee capsule.  Shown here is the selected concept sketch and initial render.



To lock-in the alignment with the team, we added color to the approved concept to help them visualize their selection. The capsule artwork was also approved and the capsule rendering added to the front panel view.














Phase 2: Creating the final art
With initial ideas explored and an approved concept in hand, we start honing in on the final artwork and color.  We needed to incorporate a few more key elements to finish off the design.

• The newly updated Barista [2.0] machine needed to be integrated with the correct glass, which posed a challenge - we only had a rendering (image) of the machine and a physical glass, so we had the glass photographed at the correct angle and merged the two to create the final visual.

• A more distinctive ice texture was added to the background to enhance the overall ICED appetite appeal and communication.







Phase 3: Finalizing the Artwork
This phase is all about refinement, tightening the details, and making sure everything feels cohesive and shelf-ready. We finalize key elements like marketing copy and NLEA info so everything is accurate.  Recommendations on ways to optimize the finish are made, and final 3D renderings are provided.



︎Images below by L’OR

DOWNEAST / Cider House Exclusive Series



SHORT BRIEF.
The Cider House Exclusive Series highlights the premium, experimental side of Downeast Cider. Each limited-release flavor pairs unexpected, seasonal ingredients with a more refined, artisanal aesthetic while still staying true to the brand’s approachable personality. The goal: maintain loyalty among core fans while attracting new consumers with a more elevated palate.


WHAT WE DID.
We partnered with the Downeast team from concept to final artwork, applying our process to build a flexible design system that ties the series together. Each can features hand-painted watercolor illustrations (by Mel) of key ingredients, giving the lineup a crafted, small-batch feel.  The first flavor to kick off the series was Yuzu & Ginger, a 2025 Spring release - see below for the process that we applied to the creation of this flavor.

It’s been a true collaboration—clear vision, creative trust, and a lot of fun along the way. And the flavors? Genuinely delicious, each perfect for the season. We’ve been thrilled to create artwork that pairs so well with what’s inside the can. 

Visit Downeast’s website or their TAP House to try the latest exclusive release ︎︎︎





Phase 1: Concepting & Alignment - Creating the system
We kicked things off by working with the Downeast team to define the design system for the new series. Our goal was to build a system that could flex across future flavors while staying cohesive. We shared a variety of layouts using greyscale ‘sketches’ of the artwork, giving the team space to react to various hierarchies and help shape the direction from the ground up.  Other flavors were included in this study, to explore how different flavor names and ingredients might work within the proposed systems.




With feedback from the team, we landed on the design hierarchy below.

Fixed elements are the logo. copy elements, and placement of color.

Flex elements are the ingredient visuals, specifically the number of elements - we agreed that this could shift between 3 and 4, depending on the flavor.


In addition to aligning on a design system, we’re sharing inspiration for potential color combinations, and relevant art styles early on to make sure we’re heading in a direction that feels right for everyone.





Phase 2: Art Development - Creating the art
With the design system in place, we moved into developing the ingredient art and exploring how color could bring each flavor to life in layout. This is one of the most enjoyable parts of the process for us. It's hands-on, creative, and full of discovery.

Mel paints each ingredient element by hand using watercolor. We then bring those scans into Photoshop to refine, clean up, and prep for layout. It’s an iterative process within the studio that thrives on collaboration and keeps the final ingredient art feeling fresh, crafted, and full of character.






Color exploration in layout.




Phase 3: Finalizing the Artwork for printing
With initial concepts explored and feedback in hand, we start honing in on the final artwork and color. This phase is all about refinement, tightening the details, fine-tuning the palette, and making sure everything feels cohesive and shelf-ready. We make updates to key elements like marketing copy and NLEA info so everything is accurate.  Recommendations on ways to optimize the finish for the metallic substrate are made, and 3D can renderings are provided.





 


︎Image below by Downeast






 

LINDT USA / Design Across Franchises & Touchpoints



THE BRIEF.
Lindt’s core brands rely on strong, established systems that must remain consistent as new products, formats, and retail programs are introduced. Each execution needs to align with existing standards while adapting to different packaging structures, sizes, and merchandising environments.
WHAT WE DID.
For 10+ years, we’ve supported ongoing packaging and display development across Lindor, Excellence, Classic Recipe, Gold Bunny, and now Dubai Style. The work spans primary packaging, club formats, and retail displays, all designed to integrate seamlessly into Lindt’s broader brand ecosystem.  




Lindt LINDOR


Lindt LINDOR expands each year with seasonal and customer-exclusive flavors. We partner with the Lindt Brand, Creative, and Production teams to develop packaging that introduces new flavor experiences while still feeling at home within the LINDOR franchise.

Our work includes creating ingredient visuals and exploring bag and wrapper color combinations across formats ranging from 6oz to 21oz club sizes. Raspberry Cheesecake was one of our favorites and is now a consistent seasonal release at Target.






We redesigned Lindt LINDOR‘s club case system in 2025. We’ll save the full write-up for a separate case study ︎, but here’s a quick look at the updated club case structure / design and the front pallet view for Raspberry Cheesecake.



We developed seasonal packaging updates for LINDOR across Valentine’s Day, Spring, and Holiday, introducing limited-time graphics that feel festive while complementing the core design system. The Valentine’s design features hand-painted watercolor hearts by Mel.

Images below courtesy of Lindt USA.






Lindt EXCELLENCE


For Excellence, we’ve supported retail and promotional packaging as well as display design. A strong understanding of the brand’s core assets helps ensure new flavors feel consistent across the bar range while still allowing room for variation when appropriate.

Crunchy Mint Cookie builds on the visual approach established for Crispy Wafer, introducing a more expressive background with added texture, touches of gold foil, and ingredient pieces emerging from the signature diamond. The result feels distinctive while still clearly part of the Excellence lineup.




Floor Display w/ Wing showcasing flavor innovation.

Prior Floor Display w/ Header showcasing flavor innovation.




Key Visual and comp print layouts for ‘Love it or We’ll Replace it’ campaign.









Lindt CLASSIC RECIPE


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.


‘Gold’ Bars (Gifting)
Les Grande Bars



Seasonal designs across formats and sales channels. Bag and wrapper designs for FDM and an XL stand-up pouch and clubcase for the Club channel.  




Classic Recipe, Hazelnut Spread

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.
I led the development of the Le Voyage collection while serving as Product Development Director at Le Belge, overseeing the project from initial concept development through final production. My role included line planning, structural packaging design, pricing strategy, vendor management, and coordinating collaboration between Marketing, R&D, and Finance throughout the process.

Working alongside brand designer Mike Boos, we developed a premium chocolate collection tailored for boutique retail, wineries, and luxury hospitality environments. The final line combined refined packaging structure, layered visual storytelling, and carefully developed flavor assortments into a cohesive collection built for premium retail and hospitality environments.

WELLNESS PET / Product & Packaging consumer testing visuals



THE BRIEF.
Wellness Pet needed a set of early-stage product concepts visualized for consumer testing, fast. The concepts spanned multiple formats, from resealable pouches to single-serve and frozen toppers, each with different structural and branding considerations. The challenge wasn’t just sketching ideas. It was making sure each concept was clear, credible, and testable with consumers.
WHAT WE DID.
We translated early concepts into clear, test-ready visuals.
Each sketch reflected the intended packaging structure, product format, and real branding, so consumers weren’t reacting to placeholders or guesswork. Across multiple formats, we kept everything consistent and easy to understand, so the team could focus on the ideas, not explaining the visuals.












We provided additional visuals to support testing for a Wellness Core Bowl Boosters product concept for cats.

LINDT x TARGET/ In-store visualizations


SHORT BRIEF.
We regularly collaborate with the Lindt’s Sales & Shopper 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.
For each merchandising option, we started by sharing quick alignment sketches and visual inspiration to get the ideas flowing. Their team’s feedback helped guide the direction until we landed on a concept ready to bring to life. From there, we developed polished renderings and collaborated closely on product placement and signage along the way. Every rendering is shown in a Target store environment so the team and buyer can see how it would look in real life. 

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



Aisle Display, Tower + Table combo:  Seasonal 





Front of Store: Pick & Mix concept

Endcap: New Brand Launch






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!




Total Category, GO BIG signage, Sketch concepts

CLEAN SIMPLE EATS x TARGET /
In-store visualizations


SHORT BRIEF.
Originally tasked with developing Q4 endcap renderings for Target, Clean Simple Eats saw an opportunity to do more. Their Marketing and Design teams used the brief to inspire buyers with future-facing solutions that positioned CSE as a long-term platform brand, not just a one-off. As a challenger brand aiming to gain traction at Target, it was crucial to balance creative storytelling with a clear understanding of Target’s display guidelines and to deliver concepts that would both educate and engage shoppers.
WHAT WE DID.
Using Target store environments as the context for the renderings, we worked closely with the CSE team to create on-shelf solutions across a variety of drink mix categories including protein powders, hydration, collagen and beauty, greens, and their newly launched (RTD) Ready to Drink protein.  We developed 3D renderings for all of the skus included in the renderings, and worked closely with their team to execute structural and signage options while offering solutions for on-shelf communication / education.  

Project Deliverables:
  • (32) Packaging renderings
  • Everyday & Q4 Endcap renderings
  • In-aisle renderings
  • Sidecap rendering
  • Grocery & Front of Store renderings
  • Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Pallet renderings




Endcaps




Following CSE’s meetings with Target, we rec'd this very kind note from CSE’s Marketing team.
Matt & Mel - wanted to just again express gratitude for all the work you guys did! We just got a list of things that were accepted for target April ‘25 (!!!!!) we’re screaming and just so incredibly grateful for all the work you did to help us get here!


Sidecap







Inline:  Expanded Set / Best-Sellers Set with aisle blades and shelf risers including a focused mix of brand messaging and key visuals.





Ready to Drink,
Refrigerated Grocery and Front of Store







Ready to Drink, Inline Energy Drink Shelf








RTD - Clear Protein pallet + Protein pouch endcap rendering



RTD - Clear Protein + Energy pallet leading into the energy drink aisle

LINDT x KROGER/ 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




Endcaps: Easter Seasonal, National & Kroger store environments






Floor Displays: Easter Seasonal

LINDT / Displays for What’s New



SHORT BRIEF.
Develop floor displays that drive consistency within each Lindt sub-brand while allowing new products and seasonal releases to stand out in-store.

The work focuses on consistent use of core brand assets (especially key colors, Master Chocolatier imagery, and appetite appeal) to help shoppers quickly recognize the brand while navigating the store. Flavor innovation is highlighted within the established design system.

For Lindor, seasonal display programs introduce structural variation through custom diecut headers, creating moments of excitement while staying consistent with the overall display approach.

The result supports ongoing launches, reinforces brand recognition, and allows each sub-brand to evolve without starting from scratch.
WHAT WE DID.
In the case of Excellence, the marketing team came to us with a brief to streamline the graphic system while aligning with global display standards.  A key focus was improving the dark chocolate flavor meter, an educational tool designed to help “new to dark” shoppers quickly understand sweetness vs. bitterness at a glance.

For all displays work, the 3D display renderings that we create provide the team with flexible views that are used within presentations to internal stakeholders and for sell-in with retailers.




Excellence - On this display we’re using the wing to disrupt and callout the new flavor drop, and on the body we’re improving clarity for ‘new to dark’ shoppers by educating them on taste profiles and where to start.  3D renderings are used throughout the process to help marketing teams visualize the displays.










Classic Recipe uses the same structure as Excellence. DBA’s are expressed differently, while the innovation wing creates a clear callout for new flavor releases.





Lindor - Flavor innovation is highlighted through graphic cues that maintain continuity with the Lindor brand.




The system expands to include structural variation, with diecut headers creating distinct seasonal moments.

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.

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 10 distinct trends that fit within the overarching design strategy. Five of those trends targeted the 6-10 age group, and through close collaboration with Nalgene’s 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.

Project Deliverables:
• Trend Research & Analysis
• Custom Illustrations
• 3D Renderings





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







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

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.

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.







DOWNEAST / Boardwalk FMB Rebrand



SHORT BRIEF.
Relaunch Downeast’s FMB range under the “Boardwalk” sub-brand, with a focus on tapping into the nostalgia of boardwalk culture. The logo needed to clearly differentiate the line from cider while still feeling connected to the brand. At the same time, the team was exploring whether the Downeast mark should appear on the front at all, requiring logo directions that could stand on their own or work within the existing system.
WHAT WE DID.
We developed multiple directions for the Boardwalk logomark, then explored how the selected mark could flex within the existing can design, including options with and without Downeast branding. The focus was on creating a clear hierarchy and distinct identity without changing the overall packaging system. Final concepts were applied to key flavors and delivered as renderings and production-ready artwork for research and rollout.





Boardwalk wordmark, overview of initial concepting sketches



The one we thought was most impactful





Refined versions developed for logo study






Cans with final Boardwalk wordmark prominently positioned within the udpated design hiearchy. 







Before

After




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