When our East Coast client called and asked for our help in redesigning a run down, DIY bungalow in Oceanside we jumped at the opportunity. Any chance I get to build and construct gives me all the good feels. And this project in particular got me all stoked because it blended a residential property with a short-term business concept that I fell in love with.

The dream was to design a haven where artists, writers and creators could come to immerse themselves into their work and deepen their connection to themselves. A place of dreaming, inspring and being inspired where personal growth and nurturing (and vacation vibes!) merge.

So, we set out to provide our client with a design that would knock socks off and as we developed the design we also began working on her marketing plan as well. I bet ya didn’t know we had that up our sleeves?! I have a marketing background and together with the graphics and creative teams we developed the “Blue Skies” concept to include the tag line “Stay Sunny”, gave the property a signature paint color and palette and ensured that every detail felt aligned with the Blue Skies brand. Here’s a little peak at one of the logos created for Blue Skies along with the branding palette.

So why does all of this matter anyway? Well, think about when you walk into an establishment. Does it evoke a certain vibe that you see and feel from the moment you step inside until you walk out? Do you understand the concept and what message the business is trying to convey? Unfortunately, there are so many companies that overlook this essential piece. Those that understand it though typically see bountiful success and continued customer loyalty. It’s one of the main reasons I love commercial design so much since I get to blend my creative design background along with my marketing skills.

If you’re thinking about starting a business, start with your why. And build layers from there. That way each piece of your business whether customer facing or not delivers a harmonious message. It also helps to keep business owners focused without the ooh look there’s a pretty flower over there distractions that so many of us entrepreneurs understand :)

Ok, now for the visuals. Oh and the booking LINK if you’re jonesin’ to see the details IRL.