Un Chosen Work
Over the past 15 years as a graphic designer and creative director, I’ve had the privilege of working with startups, multi-million dollar companies, and non-profits, helping them raise millions through strategic and impactful design. This journey has taught me invaluable lessons about the creative process, client relationships, and the nature of great work. One of the most striking realizations is that the best work I create often doesn’t get chosen by my clients. Despite pouring my heart and soul into these designs, they frequently remain unseen by the wider audience. This experience has shaped my approach and understanding of client expectations and the iterative nature of design.
UNCHOSEN CONCEPT - Ultimately the client, a TV Series called “Chasing Wild”, went in another direction… but this is still one of my favorite hand-drawn title designs.
CHOSEN CONCEPT BY CLIENT
In my career, I’ve observed a consistent pattern: after presenting the initial rounds of design work, clients often request additional rounds to explore more options. This process can be both challenging and enlightening, as it pushes me to think outside the box and continuously refine my ideas. Interestingly, about 90% of the time, after exploring various alternatives, we end up returning to the original concepts. This cycle underscores the importance of trusting my creative instincts while also being open to feedback and collaboration. It has taught me patience and the value of persistence, knowing that the first ideas often hold the most potential and resonance.
UNCHOSEN CONCEPT - Although I do love the icon we eventually landed on for Breakaway 360, I really thought this initial concept was strong.
By taking a dissasembled “B”, rotating it around 360deg, and then ultimately building a shutter, the concept was great but ultimately not chosen by the client.
Through my work with a diverse range of clients—from fledgling startups to established corporations and dedicated non-profits—I’ve learned that effective design goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about understanding the client's vision, goals, and audience. Whether it’s a branding project that elevates a company’s market position or a campaign that drives substantial fundraising for a non-profit, the true measure of success lies in the impact and value it creates. Despite the occasional frustration of seeing my favorite designs go unchosen, the rewarding outcomes and the stories of success remind me why I love what I do. Every project, every round of revisions, and every client interaction adds to the rich tapestry of my career, continually shaping me into a better designer and creative director.
UNCHOSEN STYLESCAPE CONCEPT - During an initial Stylescape process we presented the client, Brehm Center/ Fuller Seminary, with this look and feel for their rebrand. They decided that although they loved it, it just felt a little too young and not quite the educational feel they were going after.
CHOSEN STYLESCAPE CONCEPT BY CLIENT
