In 2005, I was working my 5th year as an architectural design intern at a local firm. I had just had my first child, and despite always intending to stay home with our kiddos, was quite happy with the balance that work provided our family. My mom was key to that situation, as she was our daycare provider. However, that year, when our first was about 10 months old, my mom underwent a series of medical emergencies that led to seven brain surgeries. I took the summer off to be with her, and upon returning to work, we quickly realized that my place was no longer outside of the home.
On that day, graphic I was born. Through graphic i, I concentrate on 3 main areas of design: architectural images, personal invites and business identities.
Of course, images naturally came along first. As I entered my stay at home job, I was asked to do contract work for the firm I had just left. It was a good experience, and I’m now rendering site plans, creating presentation drawings, designing floor plans and elevations for clients around the country!
Invites grew out of my love for flashing my baby’s photos to all of our relatives! It began with baby announcements, birthday invitations, and holiday cards…and has now grown into my most successful division! It is also, secretly, the most fun!
Family brought on identities. With the struggling economy, many relatives have left their jobs as well, to persue their own businesses. I was then called on to design logos, business cards, letterhead and at times, advertisements. At this time it is the fastest growing piece of graphic i. It is a great exercise for my creative brain, as it enters a whole new division of design.
I have also started an un-official charity division of graphic i called paper u, where I design custom "me ID cards", postcards, sticky notes, etc. for long-term patients at DeVos Children's Hospital. I get the most joy out of these jobs! The kids are so fun to work with, and the creativity I can lend to the project is beyond the norm!
My blog needs some work, but there are many examples on it. I welcome you to take a peek, and look forward to answering any questions you may have! Thank you!
Stephanie Pearson
