Veronica Utz Graphic Design

Lore's Chocolates Birthday Parties

2012-01-26T06:14:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a Snickers bar just will not do and I need to turn to my client, Lore's Chocolates in Old City, Philadelphia for a special treat.

Downstairs from Lore's retail store is a fully functional factory used for Lore's Chocolate Parties—a Philadelphia Magazine's Best of Philly 2011—Best Birthday Party Award!

During the party kids have the opportunity to create their own chocolate confections on an actual production line!

VUGD was asked to brand these parties with post cards, business cards and an online and paper invitation that is included with the party.

Maureen Walter, Event Planner at Lore's, wanted the material to be similar to Lore's existing branding but with a fun and kid-like edge using colors from their existing palette.

Besides the celebratory banner, the design is accented with swirls of chocolate and a chocolate font.

Let's just say, while creating this design, I was inspired to eat a lot of chocolate.

What I learned in 2011

2012-01-03T07:30:00.000-08:00

At the end of 2010, I vowed to make the coming year different. I promised to get out of my comfort zone and build something that works for me professionally and personally. Here are 3 things I learned in 2011:

1) Being a "YES" person never wins.
Clients want direction from their graphic designer.
If they want a change to a design, I always explain my thinking behind the design. Nine out of ten times they will agree with my strategy and take my professional opinion. Working for an agency with an account executive as a go-between always prevented my interaction with clients in previous jobs. It caused more hours billed to the client and often the designs did not turn out as well. Now client interaction is my #1 priority.

2) The importance of buying from smaller businesses.
In a recession economy, it's more important than ever to purchase services and goods from small businesses. Purchasing from small businesses is often a more personal experience, sometimes dealing with the owner directly. Creating logos, websites and marketing materials for small businesses has allowed me to see how passionate small business owners are first-hand. If you get to know a local small business owner, I'm sure you'll see the same thing.

3) Pride in starting something new.
Pride in putting myself out there and getting out of my comfort zone. I am a naturally shy person. Getting out there, networking, even making tv appearances to talk about my business has not been easy. But taking your passion to the next level will drive you to do wonderful and creative things.

Now 2012 is here and I am ready to hit the ground running. Although I don't have any real resolutions, my goal is to continue to work smarter and to learn, grow and take chances where I see fit.

How will you get out of your comfort zone for 2012?

Holiday Cards

2011-11-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is upon us! We have a few new ideas up our sleeves for the 2011 season at babyBdesigns!

The above ornament cards have been so popular that we decided to add three new shapes for the same price.

All four shapes come with a silk ribbon for hanging.

We also have some great 5" x 7" cards.

With all of the hustle and bustle of the season you can make your one-of-a-kind winter baby feel special with a gorgeous snowflake theme.

Don't forget that Saturday, November 26th is Small Business Saturday. Support small business like babyBdesigns.com!

Pass It On Cards

2011-10-10T06:11:00.000-07:00

I wanted something different and inexpensive to market Veronica Utz Graphic Design. An idea that says something about what I am as a person and as a business.

What I came up with is Pass It On Cards-No good deed should go unnoticed.

The idea is simple. If someone is kind to you or you receive fabulous service, you pass this business card to them. They are asked to pass the card on to someone who does a good deed for them.

The back indicates that this card is brought to you by VUGD and encourages the receiver to visit the website. Good deed with a splash of marketing.

I'd love to hear you thoughts on these cards? Let me know if you would like some free cards to pass on.

Human Rights Logo

2011-09-25T17:22:00.000-07:00

There has never been a universal logo for Human Rights, until now.

The logo was generated by a contest with 15,000 entrants from over 190 countries. Anyone could enter and the logo could be created from any medium—paint, stick drawing in the sand, computer generated. The winner, Predrag Stakic from Belgrade, was chosen from an online ballot

The 32-year-old graphic designer said "no single logo can change the world - including this one. But a logo is a symbol that people can rally around - and they can change the world," Stakic said.

The organizers say it means the logo is "by the people, for the people." That until now there was no way to overcome "language barriers to communicate this universal bond symbolically."

The Human Rights logo will become an open source product, free to be used by everyone, everywhere, without restrictions - for the purpose of promoting Human Rights.

Photo Credit

__________________________________________________________________________

Adding this video that was just sent to me.

Main Line Parent Magazine

2011-09-13T11:26:00.000-07:00

The idea started as a simple need to connect. As a new mother, Sarah Bond started a Mom's group. A simple idea that with the help of like-minded parents like herself grew into an online community and now a free self-published magazine for the Main Line, Philadelphia, and it's surrounding suburbs.

Main Line Parent magazine is beautifully designed and printed, the photography is top-notch and the copy is well written thanks to Photo Director, Brittany Ostrov and Editor, Melissa Greiner.

As Design Director for Main Line Parent, working with such talent made my job fun and rewarding.

Main Line Parent is kicking off the second issue, otherwise known as "The Birthday Issue" with The Ultimate Birthday Bash, a fun, family-oriented event where birthday party-themed businesses and families can get to know each other in an afternoon. Proceeds from the bash benefit The Toy Closet at Bryn Mawr Hospital.

Did I mention there will be cake tasting?!

I hope to see you there!

Click here to have the free magazine brought to your door step.

Also look for copies in store fronts in the Main Line and surrounding areas.

Main Line Parent is published by Sarah Bond Media, LLC, PO Box 291, Ardmore, PA 19003

Click here for info about advertising at MLP

Good Bye for Now Mr. Apple

2011-08-25T18:26:00.000-07:00

I think a lot of people in the graphic design and technology world are a bit sad today after hearing about Steve Jobs stepping down as CEO of Apple.

I have always been inspired by Mr. Jobs' humble beginnings and his great success. It is so hard for me to conceive all that he has done in his career—all of the technologies that I take for granted every day.

His story gives me hope and reminds me to never give up on what you love.

If you have not seen his commencement speech at Stanford University, take a few moments now. It may turn your day around.

Then again, it may change your life.

A Good Book

2011-07-20T12:43:00.000-07:00

The free library has kept me entertained throughout the years. I was excited to update one library's old-fashioned logo.

When starting this project, I showed Marycatherine McGarvey, the Director of the Free Library of Springfield Township, sketches of my ideas. The twenty or so ideas ranged from complicated brainteaser puzzle pieces to images of the brain to shapes of the library itself.

But what it came down to was a good book.

If it's not broke...just update it.

Recycle My Dress!

2011-07-14T07:42:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a piece of clothing that you had a hard time getting rid of? That prom dress that you loved? The bridesmaid dress that is just a little off? Calling all eco-friendly fashionistas! Recycle My Dress can revamp your duds so you can wear it again and again!

I briefly met Nicole Kulp, the designer from Recycle My Dress at the Art Star Craft Bazaar this past May. I was drawn to that red dress above. Nicole also sells her dress find transformations on her site. Here are my two favorites.

Note: Above pics where taken from Recycle My Dress's Etsy page.

Happy Recycling!!

Choosing a Logo

2011-07-06T08:35:00.000-07:00

Choosing a logo for your company reminds me of choosing a wedding dress.

A woman almost always has something in mind when she shops for a wedding dress, but often picks something she never thought she wanted.

You just never know how you'll feel until you try it on.

Shelly Gill from Gill Gal Media sent me several logos that she liked. The style was similar to this:


One of three of the original logos I sent Shelly.

In the end, this is the logo she felt spoke about her and her company:

Good luck to Gill Gal Media. I think you found a perfect fit!

Press Here—A Interactive Children's Book

2011-06-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

My 4 and 2 year old boys and I have recently discovered a children's book like no other we've ever seen before. The book is called Press Here by Herve Tullet.

Children are instructed to press a single yellow dot on the first page. Turning the page your child realizes he created a second yellow dot. You are then instructed to rub, shake, tilt, clap and clap louder throughout the pages creating more dots of primary colors. It really is a blast!

At one point your child even turns out the light on the book.

Press Here really had my kid's imaginations going. It kept their interest just as much as any computer game would BUT it is a flat page with simple primary circles on it. When screen time turns into book time AND use your imagination time, that is good enough for me.

The style of book seems like a natural progression in this age of interactive play and I hope to see more books like this.

Tell me about books you and your kids love.

How to Choose a Graphic Designer

2011-06-01T17:24:00.000-07:00

I've met people in need of a my services to fix their previous graphic designer's mistakes. It is very important to select a graphic designer in the same manner you would any other service professional— through research, referrals and a good amount of instinct. Here are a few pointers on what to look for when hiring a graphic designer.

Common decency is the MOST IMPORTANT. You want a GD who isn't going to give you an attitude when you want to change a part of the design. If there is something you are not digging, but can't necessarily articulate, their job is to identify and fix. Always hire someone who can check their ego at the door.
That being said, your GD should be able to explain why your request may not be the best decision and why they may have taken the design in a slightly different direction. Talking about their work is a necessary skill. Otherwise, client and designer will go around in circles and never settle on that perfect design.
Your graphic designer should be knowledgeable. You don't want to hire someone who exclusively works on web design to create your print logo and branding. If your project falls outside of their specialty, are they willing to learn how to complete your request. The end result could be something like this:

Instead of something like this:

(Hint: when having a logo done, be sure the designer does it in a vector based program instead of Photoshop. A good rule of thumb: Photoshop is for photos. Be sure to get a horizontal and vertical version of the logo, as well as a print and web version.)

Make sure your designer is accessible. I've had clients purchase logos off of a website. The "designer" sent them a jpg (for web design). When they contacted a few months later for an eps (for print design) the designer was nowhere to be found.
Beware of mass produced logos. Be sure your logo is unique to your business. The designer should be reputable. You don't want to find out 5 years from now that the logo you paid good money for and based your whole branding campaign on is a piece of clip art or duplicated for another business.

I am always open to offering free advice on GD. I'd be happy to help you save money, time and possibly your sanity!

Win tickets to see Alex & the Kaleidoscope Band!

2011-05-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

Award-winning family entertainers, Alex & the Kaleidoscope Band is playing at Plays & Players (P&P) on Wednesday, June 8 at 7pm. Alex Mitnick is a Philadelphia-based composer on a mission to inspire children through music and art.

Focused on self-awareness and appreciation of the world around us, Kaleidoscope Songs has received over 14 national awards for incorporating fun and learning through the power of music.

“Alex and the Kaleidoscope Band is a local group of talented performers with a wonderful goal to inspire kids. They represent the intersection of art and community that we strongly believe in here at Plays & Players, and we are happy to be able to support them,” said Daniel Student, Plays & Players Artistic Director.

babyBdesigns.com is happy to give a family four pack to one lucky winner. To enter, please "like" babyBdesigns on Facebook and write a comment about a favorite musical moment with or without your child. A winner will be chosen at random on June 1, 2011.

Designed to Destroy

2011-05-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

When I first heard students from the Hussian School of Art were using "crush cars" as canvas for the Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, I couldn't help draw a comparison to the ritual of Tibetan Buddhist Monks. The Monks create designs out of different colors of sand only to dismantle it as a sign of non-permanence. (Read more about Mandala Sand Painting here)

"We are delighted to have our students participate in painting the crush car. There is so much excitement at the school about this project," said Bruce D. Wartman, President of Hussian School of Art. He continued to explain the process. "Our 'canvas' presents a real design challenge. Not only do the students need to select a Philadelphia icon they’d like to paint, they will submit their designs that must fit the dimensions of the section of the car they will paint. As with any commercial project, concepts and sketches will be approved before final designs are developed. Our goal is for the car to become a canvas that makes us all proud – all Philadelphians as well."

June 4 will mark the last day any one will ever see the painted car in one piece, as Monster Jam drivers, who regularly and effortlessly drive over junked cars arranged as obstacles on the Monster Jam race track, will at first admire, then flatten the car.

ONE LUCKY READER WILL WIN A FAMILY 4 PACK FROM BABYBDESIGNS.COM.
To win please like babyB on Facebook AND write a comment below about what design you would like to see crushed on June 4. Winner will be picked from Random.com on May 27, 2011

A SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR MY READERS:
Go to this Ticketmaster page to purchase seats for Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam at The Linc June 4, use the code BLOGGER to save $10 on all $25 and $35 seats—sweet! (Note: The code and discount also work if someone orders by phone at 800-745-3000 ... also, the discount isn't good for front row and VIP seats, kids pricing, or $15 seats, and it's not available on the day of the show.)

It’s car crushing craziness and fun for the whole family.

Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam® – Saturday, June 4, 7 p.m., Lincoln Financial Field, 10th St. and Pattison Ave. Tickets at $60, $45, $35, $25, $15 at Lincoln Financial Field Box Office, Ticketmaster Outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at 800-745-3000.

Logo for a Writer

2011-05-16T02:34:00.000-07:00

"No matter how brilliant your product, how savvy your business sense or how fervent your passion, your business will only go so far without potential customers hearing your message. Make your company shine with copy."

This is a statement by writer Melissa Greiner, who recently asked me to create a logo for her written communication services.

Melissa narrowed her choice down to one idea from many. Her choice echoes her philosophy on strategic communication—which among other notions aims to take a company's most complex ideas and turn them into a concise, bold message for everyone to understand.

This logo will eventually translate well as a business card, letterhead and overall branding of Melissa's company.

Memories of a Mother

2011-05-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

My Mother, was an eternal optimist. Saying her life was not easy would be an understatement, but she was always forgiving and trusting.

Whenever anyone had a problem, she prayed. She looked for symbols. One of the most common symbols in her life was a Yellow Rose. She often prayed to a Saint who claimed when you saw a Yellow Rose, all would be ok. She believed that when she heard the song You've Got a Friend by James Taylor, it was a sign that God had her back. Typical of my teenage, non-religious self, I would roll my eyes at this behavior.

As I grew older, I started seeking Yellow Roses. I turned up James Taylor and sang at the top of my lungs. These things started giving me comfort, not for religious reasons, but because, to me they are synonymous with my Mother's Love.

Joanne Boykin passed away September of 2005.

For Mother's Day, I created a note card in her memory. Proceeds from this card will go to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Joanne Boykin's name.

Close up of back

If you knew Joanne, I have no doubt she would call you "friend" and invite you over for Christmas dinner. (You think I'm kidding!) I am hoping even viewing this card brings some of her spirit to life.

What is your favorite existing or past memory of your Mother?

This card is available at babyBdesigns.com. Shipping is included. If you catch me or anyone who has contact with me cards are $2 off, you save on shipping!

My mother and I at my sister's wedding. I can still hear her laughing here.

Hot Mamas vs. the Sharks

2011-04-20T06:47:00.000-07:00

Deidrea Haysel from Hot Mama Gowns was recently chosen to fly to Hollywood to pitch to the "Sharks" of ABC’s hit show Shark Tank.

It was an amazing opportunity for her to be in front of the 5 investors and to have her segment chosen to air on April 22 in front of 6+ million people watching.

I was so excited to have a small part in this. Deidrea contacted me to design an invite for the viewing party. She wanted to combine the show's style with her company's branding. Most of all, it had to capture this special moment for her company.

This is what I came up with...

Deidrea loved it on the first try!

Don't forget to watch THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 22 at 8pm on ABC to watch Deirdrea swim with the sharks.

Spring is in the Air!

2011-04-18T19:27:00.001-07:00

Ahhh, spring is in the air! As far as I'm concerned what better time than spring, a time of growth and rebirth, to have a new baby?

Here are some designs inspired by these spring births. These are all beautifully designed on both sides and can be found at babyBdesigns.

As always, if there is anything you would like to see designed, please don't hesitate to ask.

Watching Sweet Babes Grow

2011-04-15T08:32:00.000-07:00

When starting babyBdesigns.com in 2010, I had a dream of watching children grow through creating designs celebrating various milestones in their lives. I imagined not just creating a card, but hearing the stories of the families and having the story come through in our designs.

Ultimately, I want parents to be so happy with our services, they would return year after year.

Well, babyBdesigns has turned one year old recently. I am happy to announce that my vision is coming true. The following are two of our first customers. Meet Emery Simone and Evan Andrew, both of whom are celebrating their first birthdays this month.

Emery Simone's Birth Announcement based on the colors and design of her bedroom.

Emery's first birthday party invite. Her Mom requested an owl theme. We made it fun and girly to match Emery's personality

Evan's Birth Announcement. Evan parents were announced by Harry Kalas at their wedding. He is destined to be Phillies fan!

Evan's first birthday invite. Mom and Dad wanted the theme to be simply "Evan is turning 1"

Like these sweet babes, babyB has grown! We've literally gone from a crawl to a run—offering gorgeous designs, better services and more party products.

Thank you to the parents of Emery and Evan and all parents who have used our services. I am truly honored and wish you and your child a wonderful year of growth, of having fun, and being creative!

What exciting adventures will another year offer Emery, Evan, babyBdesigns and you?

"Sweet" Packaging

2011-04-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

Ever had one of those "why didn't I think of that" moments? This package design was one for me.

The Natural Confectionery Company, a London based company, just revealed their new packaging. I love how the playfully illustrated characters are interacting and how the product window is now part of the design. There is so much fun going on you hardly notice all of the white space, keeping with the "doing what comes naturally" feel.

Props: London design studio Pearlfisher
Jamie Nash, designer; Natalie Chung, creative director; Jonathan Ford, creative partner; Tess Wicksteed, strategy
Well done!
Anyone else going to get some candy? Yumm!

The New Kid

2011-03-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

I often wonder what my 4 year old is thinking when he bops his 2 year brother over the head for no reason. I try to be empathetic...it must be hard to be the big brother. This hilarious, award winning advertisement for Proctor and Gamble developed at Saatchi & Saatchi New York, creatively puts us in the shoes of the big bro.

Props for The New Kid
The New Kid ad was developed at Saatchi & Saatchi New York by chief creative officer/copywriter Gerry Graf, creative director Tris Gates-Bonarius, agency producer David Perry. Filming was shot by director Harold Einstein via Station Film, New York, with managing partner Stephen Orent, executive producer Tom Rossano, and line producer Eric Liney, and director of photography Tom Houghton. Editor was Ian Mackenzie at Mackenzie Cutler. Sound was designed and arranged by Andrew Sherman at Fluid New York.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

2011-03-23T08:02:00.000-07:00

It is spring time again, and I am starting to notice all of the wonderful walks, rides and runs for various charities in our area. I absolutely love the positivity when a charitable organization uses a sense of humor in order to advertise combating a horrific disease. No one does this better than the ladies (leave it to the girls!) in the fight against breast cancer.

Want to win this shirt? Click here to see how.

A team of women who have walked and will continue to ...walk 60 miles for a cure. To date they have raised over $80,000. Pledge the Sisterhood (and Brotherhood)!

Available in tank tops, t-shirts, sweat shirts and pajamas.

These remind me that there are real people suffering—people who laugh and cry—from this disease.

Can you think of amusing slogans/designs for a not so funny disease or cause? Please share and keep us laughing!

Art into Fashion

2011-03-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

When I heard Roberto Capucci: Art into Fashion would be at The Philadelphia Museum of Art (March 16 - June 5, 2011), I jumped at the chance to attend.
Capucci's designs are considered to be sculptural works—a huge difference from other designers who are restricted to the female form. Capucci frequently finds inspiration in nature, sculpture and architecture.


This design was based on a pebble dropping into a pool of water. Nove Gonne (Nine Skirts), 1956, By Roberto Capucci (Italian, b. 1930). Sala Bianca Palazzo Pitti Florence. Sculpture-dress, ‘bello’ red silk taffeta, overlapping elements on the skirt. Claudia Primangeli / L.e C. Service.

Homage to Vasarely (detail), 1965. By Roberto Capucci. Rue Cambon Atelier Paris. Dress, black and white woven satin ribbons, ‘optical’ effect, black plumes. Claudia Primangeli / L.e C. Service

Sculpture Dress, 1992. By Roberto Capucci (Italian, b. 1930). Schauspielhaus Theatre Berlin. Sculpture-dress, multi-coloured plissé taffeta, overlapping pleats on the skirt. Claudia Primangeli / L.e C. Service

Roberto Capucci, a master of color, form, and innovative silhouettes, was one of the founders of modern Italian fashion in the early 1950s. Today, after six decades of creative achievement, he remains one of Italy’s most influential and imaginative artist-couturiers.

Crepe, 2007. By Roberto Capucci. Roberto Capucci Foundation Museum Villa Bardini Florence. Sculpture in the Box Line style. Fuchsia taffeta, green borders, orange taffeta inside

This exhibit would be great for the whole family. The sculptures, shapes, colors and fabrics are sure to catch the attention of any child. I am excited to get my four year old's perspective on what he sees inside the green crack in the Crepe dress.

March For a Wonderful Cause – BBD and Cradles to Crayons

2011-03-01T10:54:00.000-08:00

babyBdesigns is delighted to announce its brand new relationship with a wonderful local charity, Cradles to Crayons (C2C). In order to provide money to C2C, we designed an all purpose note card (below) available for purchase on our website. 100% of the proceeds from sales of this card go to C2C for the month of March!

The mission of C2C is to provide children living in low income and homeless situations from birth to preteen the basic essentials, free of charge, that they need to feel safe, warm, ready to learn. I know from experience that being a child in need is stressful and frightening. It is sad to think that a child has to worry about anything else except being a child.

Front of card. Card is blank inside.

Back of card.

C2C gives children in need the essentials they to get a fair and even start in life. Even a small order from babyB can make a huge difference.

These cards would make a great gift for teachers, childcare workers, or anyone that has children in their lives. This may also be a nice touch in the workplace to thank someone for their business. With every order, you can feel great about helping out a child in need. For more information, including ways to further help this wonderful cause, please click here to visit their website.

Thank You, Thank You!

2011-02-25T19:23:00.000-08:00

Having a child makes people ridiculously generous. Because of that, I always like to have note cards for my children around the house so we can thank someone in a timely manner.

I created these cards with that in mind.

Are there any toys you would like to see? Just let me know!

I also made a little something for the parents based on a quote I like to live by."We are here to love each other, serve each other, & uplift each other" -Anonymous

It is also available in blue.

Check all of these cards out (and more) at babyBdesigns!

We've Come a Long Way, Baby!

2011-02-17T18:24:00.000-08:00

Did you ever stop to think what the older individuals in our society have experienced in their lifetimes? Take my dear Grandmother-in-law (aka Mom-Mom). Mom-Mom has lived through the depression, several wars, not to mention the creation of countless advances in technology! She was born before the television was invented and now Mom-Mom creates her own cards on her computer and has a Facebook page.

I started thinking about all of this after seeing this clip below from the Today Show. I graduated college in 1995 with a Graphic Design degree. People, especially older individuals were often confused about what I was studying back then. The conversation would always end with "Oh, you do art on a computer" and then they would look at me like I was nuts.

My first job in 1995 was at a local newspaper art department. I worked on a black and white monitor and we actually hand pasted the ads together.

Quite a beauty in 1995

Tell me your story. What do you remember about the beginning of the Internet age?

A Beer Adventure

2011-02-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked to custom design a beer label by a home brewer who was looking to take his passion to the next level. He had a concept for the logo, but needed to recast the branding with a more professional look. Like any other design project, the first thing that popped into my head was "RESEARCH!" I called my resident beer expert, my husband, who was up for the challenge. So off to the beer garden we went!

The most obvious choice for such an adventure was Hawthornes Beer Boutique & Gourmet Eatery at 11th and Fitzwater Streets in Philadelphia. This beer cafe has over 1000 bottles of beer, a resident unpretentious beer expert and some yummy eats.

Here are some of my favorites beer labels...

Troegs Java Head Stout. Love everything about this. Some eye trickery...it took a second glance to notice the skull.

Left Hand Brewery. Beautiful art work and I especially love the shape of these labels. Diamond in the center and squared on the side.

Red Brick Brewing. I love how they took this simple design and applied it to all of their beers. Nicely done!


I love all of Brekenridge's labels. This one made me laugh. A skull with a sombrero and wheat in his teeth.

Do you have a favorite beer or beer label design?
Let us know so we can try it...um I mean...see it!

10 Love Songs to Inspire

2011-01-26T05:18:00.001-08:00

I often find myself celebrating the holidays a little bit earlier than everyone else—a welcomed casualty of the stationery design business. I started designing 2010 Christmas cards in September, and enjoyed listening to Christmas music to get the design process rolling. Music has always been a great inspiration for me, and is an absolute must when I am months ahead of everyone on the calendar.

Valentine's Day is upon me although it’s only January. To help spark the design process, I thought I would compile my “10 Favorite Love Songs to Design to”. I hope these songs inspire you to spread the love too! And don't forget babyBdesigns 2011 Valentine's Day Collection is a great way to do just that.

Let us know if there is something else you would like to see because, as always, our designs are inspired by you! Also FREE SHIPPING on all V day products!
10 Songs that help me feel the LOVE:
Make You Feel My Love by Adele
Love by Matt White
Angel by Jack Johnson
Bottle It Up by Sara Barilles
Such Great Heights by Iron & Wine
Close to You by The Carpenters
Your Song by Elton John
Ain't No Other Man by Christina Aguilera
Yellow by Coldplay
Hey, Soul Sister by Train

What songs inspire you?

A Fun Toy that Promotes the Observation of Art

2011-01-21T04:54:00.000-08:00

I just found these fantastic flash cards called Alphabeasties for my kids. My oldest son is in pre-school and just learning his letters, but I am hoping he gets more than letter recognition from these cards.

Type has a personality. Whether blocky or small, thick or tall, it exudes a feeling to the reader. For example, I will point out to my little guys how the "e" for elephant is thick and bold and the "g" for giraffe is tall and skinny. The type makes it more fun.

I try to encourage my kids to not just play with the object, but to also looks at the toy's fit with the surrounding world. Examining subtle differences between objects is to observe beauty, an often overlooked discovery given the large amount of time we spend looking at the screen.

Do you know any other well designed toys that can help our children look at the world a little differently?

Please note: There is also a Alphabeasties book, activity book, and I've even seen a pillow.

Pre-Golden Globes Design

2011-01-17T08:56:00.000-08:00

I recently had the opportunity to do design work for Karla Trotman from Bellybuttonboutique.com. Belly Button Boutique is a store that sells products of comfort and relief to pre and postnatal women.

Karla just returned from a pre Golden Globes event at the Boom Boom Room (I can’t stop saying this name) in LA. Karla asked me to find a cost efficient, top quality, reusable, environmentally friendly bag on which to place her logo. She also asked me to design a tag that incorporated her existing branding.

The bag was for celebrity swag and the tag advertised Belly Button Boutique. Karla says her promo items were a big hit!

Monetize

Here is the front and back of tag:

Karla got to rub elbows with some fabulous stars including Jewel, Scott Baio, Tiffani Thiessen, Tisha Campbell-Martin, and Christie Lynn Smith from "The Crazies" just to name a few!

Congrats and thank you to Karla Trotman!
It was great to design something that so many celebrities enjoyed.

Wine and a Creative Friend

2011-01-15T19:02:00.000-08:00

One of the best parts of being in the design business is the creative people you meet.

I had the pleasure of working with a writer named Courtney Polidori. She is enthusiastic and talented individual and I am excited that she uses babyBdesigns's services for her family.

It's great to have someone so open to your creative ideas and who also keeps me on my toes thinking of new ideas. When I introduced the "Ornament Card" from babyB, Courtney was one of the first people to jump on it. Using paper for another purpose was exactly the kind of thing she wanted for her green and growing family.

Then Courtney approached me with an idea. She was interested in giving out bottles of wine as presents for the holidays this year. She and her husband pre bought several cases of wine in anticipation of this. She was concerned that if she brought a bottle of wine to a holiday party, it may get lost with the other bottles at the bar and the host or hostess would never know what she got them. In order to solve this holiday horror, she asked if I could design a custom label that fits over the back label of the wine bottle. This label was to be a symbol of her family so that all knew exactly who the holiday gift was from.

She loves them so much, she put them on all gifts, even cookies and homemade things. She also ordered return address labels to match.

Thank you to all of the inspiring people out there and please keep sharing your ideas with me!

"Begin. The rest is easy."

2011-01-06T10:30:00.000-08:00

This is an anonymous quote I often read on my Yogi Ginger tea. I try to live by these words and think of it as a sign from the Higher Powers to get things done. As a mother, wife, business owner, and oh, did I mention my part-time employment at a local advertising agency, my list of things to do is about a mile long. Things that can wait, sometimes never get done.

Hence, the start of this blog! I am a designer. I love everything to look just so. But if I wait to have time to make it perfect, it will not happen. So here is my imperfect blog. Started! Look for less imperfect updates in the future.

I hope to have some enjoyable work, mine and others, on this blog. I have exciting projects going on at babyBdesigns, (Valentine's Day cards, gifts, party packages) and in my freelance world (beer label design, a photography brochure and yoga studio post card).

I'm so excited to share and hope you enjoy the content:)