As a Brand Architect, I work with clients to extract their true brand essence, and then define a clear message that engages their customers. I direct our team in developing Big Picture concepts that become design and communication tools. Once we launch these print, packaging, event or web-based tools, we ultimately elevate our client’s brand equity.

I studied and practiced architecture, which has given me a unique perspective on how to build a brand. To me, understanding building materials, knowing how far to push creative nuances, and ensuring that the final product can be realized are valuable skills that translate directly into my personal approach to my clients’ projects.

In my view, Brand Architecture involves an intentional approach to problem-solving. Compared to a conventional “designer” approach, architecture is a more precise way to build a brand. Our clients prefer this approach, and our dialogue throughout the collaborative process ensures that they are pleased with the results we achieve.

On a more personal level, I’m passionate about helping my clients walk more lightly on the earth. I want to support their efforts to act responsibly as corporate neighbors in our shared communities. I believe brand karma is very real.

Brand is personality. As Creative Director, my job is to bring that personality to life and present it to the world. To achieve this, our team reviews all aspects of our client’s product or service, then crafts creative concepts that meet the brand objectives. From there, the visual elements of the brand – the look and feel – are created, along with the messaging.

With over three decades in the business, I’ve come to realize that the most important aspect of a brand is the relationship – the emotional bond a customer feels with a company and its products or services. Our objective is to create that emotional connection.

I believe that strong, healthy brands deliver what they promise consistently. We take the same approach to our own work, striving always to build enduring relationships with our clients.

When businesses launch a new product or service, I help create their branding strategy by defining: What do you offer that’s really different? Why is that important? How can we connect emotionally with your customers? I take those answers and start to develop a strong brand that genuinely builds their business.

My experience as a copywriter and creative designer allows me to work closely with graphic designers, photographers, programmers, video crews, and other specialists to ensure that a consistent message is shared across all points of contact between our clients and their customers. In my view, the consistency of an engaging message is key to the effectiveness of a brand strategy.

Sales and advertising are often accused of manipulation or hucksterism. Yet I believe that when marketing is practiced professionally, honestly, and ethically, genuine connections can be created. The true features of a product or service can deliver very real benefits to the customer. And everyone involved in the process is rewarded.

When building our client’s website, I’m responsible for designing an intelligent interface supporting the visual elements and messaging RLB has developed. This includes mapping out the structure of the site, art direction, and coordinating all development, which may include flash, video, blogging, and/or e-commerce solutions. In all cases, I ensure the end-user will have a practical, seamless online experience... ultimately enhancing the brand message.

At age 5 I was playing with markers and straight edges on my first drafting table. That early experience was lucid and telling of my natural inclination. Since then, design skills have grown, along with a wicked sharp sense for multi-tasking, street smarts, and fourteen years of professional experience with website design & development, branding, layout design, packaging and the likes. Clients range from boutique custom projects to international environmental companies, nature signage to restaurants, real estate to shopping centers. Small to big, start-up to Old School, these projects developed a knack for getting the job done.

I believe a successful web project begins with attentive listening — listening to what is said and, even more importantly, what is not said. Dialogue with my client allows for a clear understanding of their industry and identifying the sometimes intimidating and abstract qualities they want to express. From there, the process becomes empowering, and even fun. This is why I strive to intentionally create a friendly and focused collaboration, resulting in our very best online work.