Can I just Shoot it on My iPhone?
I was recently wrapping up a meeting with the Vice President of Marketing for a startup here in Silicon Valley. As we were ending our meeting, my client commented, “I really need a headshot, can you take on really quickly on my iPhone?” I paused, and answered: “No.” My client pushed back, “I…
Read MoreMy Advice to a Design Graduate
I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with a recent design graduate, Sanjana Pandit. She graduated with a BFA in Art & Design from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and is exploring options and ideas around full-time work in the design field. She came to me with some thoughtful and curious questions that…
Read MoreWhen in doubt, gratitude…
Dinner time! For at least a year now, when my family sits down at the dinner table, we each share something we’re grateful for (from that particular day). This began because it seems like there’s so much negativity in the world—and I wanted to start our meal with something positive. Something that’s brought us joy.…
Read MoreTop 7 Musings After AdobeMAX
I attended AdobeMAX — the Creativity Conference and it did not disappoint. The gathering in Las Vegas attracted over 12,000 people and was organized by Adobe, the software giant known for Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign programs — the tools I use every day. I love this conference. It is a healthy mix of practical sessions, inspiration…
Read MoreThe Joyful Experience of San Francisco’s Color Factory
When was the last time you indulged in an hour of joyous curiosity and unadulterated play? That was my experience at The Color Factory in San Francisco and I wanted to share some of the fun with you. When I posted to Instagram and Facebook, one of my friends commented, “I don’t know what that…
Read MoreAffectionate dogs and the power of tone
Caution: Dog can’t hold its licker. This sign has been mounted outside my home for years and just recently, I realized how perfect it is. “Dogs can’t hold their licker” pretty much says everything about my home, life, and family in one short statement. Visitors to my home will know immediately that they will be…
Read MoreThe Pros and Cons of Cheap Logo Services told by a Marketing Master
Experience with 99 designs? This question was recently posed via email to a group of talented and experienced professional women. Before I could weigh in, Deb Doyle of Stage 2 Marketing replied. She nailed it, and I want to share her wisdom here. Original Question: As I head into a much needed website re-do, I need…
Read MoreLife by Design: Business and Motherhood—My Biz Mama Interview
A few months ago, my interview was featured by Biz Mama. I am sharing it below for several reasons: I was thrilled to be able to share my story with other mom/business owners I believe my business is thriving because I am a mother. The flexibility to say “yes” to both exciting work and volunteering with my…
Read MoreAre you Thoughtfully Ruthless? Top 12 Take-aways from Val Wright
Man, I love a good book, don’t you? I’m not talking about an easy, beach book though. I mean a really motivates you, challenges you, keeps you up at night thinking about kind of book. I recently had the pleasure of hearing Val Wright, a recognized global leadership and innovation expert, speak about her new book,…
Read MoreWhy Now? The New Solace Brand Identity Interview
Solace is an established and rapidly growing data movement company in Silicon Valley. Recently, they announced their new name and logo — evolving not only their brand, but also their products. I had the pleasure of discussing the new brand with Greg Barr, the Director of Marketing Strategy at Solace. Here’s what he shared: …
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