I’ve always loved art and was always encouraged to take creative classes since I was in elementary school. I went to school for Art at James Madison University and graduated with Fine Arts and Graphic Design major.
With a wealth of print and digital design experience, my work encompasses almost every niche of design. I have created award-winning logos, marketing materials and publication design. My design aesthetic combines understated typography with photo and illustration editing that emphasizes storytelling. I am strongly driven to maintain high quality in every detail.
I currently work at Total Wine and More— tasked with bringing my extensive experience with creative strategy and ability to elevate creative across the entire spectrum. I am responsible for creating in-house marketing campaigns contributing to over $5 billion YOY in sales.
I am a creative lead in a department of 12 creatives. In the past year my position has grown to where I now touch every aspect of what’s created in one way or another. I also conduct photoshoots on site, concept and oversee photoshoots off-site. Total Wine is a fast paced work environment with huge and frequent marketing initiatives and I enjoy rolling up my sleeves, working with the team to help craft new big ideas.
Prior to that I worked at top-notch branding design agency called Fathom Creative—juggling various projects on any given day. My main focus there was branding and conference/exhibit design.
Previously, I worked at NBAA—where I was an art director for 11 years. I created a magazine from the ground up, worked on their brand, marketing materials and exhibits. I then began art directing photo shoots-working closely with photographers based throughout the United States. About 9 years ago I decided that I really wanted to be behind the lens for a couple of reasons. One, I knew exactly what I’m looking for because I work with, and layout these images every day for my design projects; and two, because I was eager to find another new exciting creative outlet. My boss was on board! So I dove right in and have never looked back. No doubt it was an upward battle learning all the technical nuances of the camera, but I LOVED IT. Design is my first language, but photography is a close second.
I hope you enjoy looking around and contact me with any comments or projects you may have in the future. I’d love to hear from you! Thanks so much!
Erika