I specialize in well-thought-out designs with visual impact, executed simply.
After graduating from Champlain College with a degree in Multimedia and Graphic Design in 2004, I began working as a Graphic/Web designer for a company working with large Fortune 500 companies and non-profit organizations. My entrepreneurial drive motivated me to go out on my own in 2006 and I built a successful business creating websites that are as much my client’s vision as my own. In my 10 years of freelancing, I was hired by hundreds of clients, ranging from small businesses to very large enterprises. For the past 6 years, I've focused almost exclusively on the UI/UX of mobile and web apps for businesses of all sizes.
Process
Understanding Issues and how to design a better solution
I take each situation differently depending on what it is. I prefer to start with wireframes for any project so I understand what is needed to complete it. Bringing the right people into the project early is important as well. It allows for collaboration and also no surprises. Since I’ve been working from home most of my career, most of this collaboration is through Slack and video conferencing. I like to get wireframes into InVision and set up a click through as well. Once I’m ready to design there shouldn’t be any unknowns which is a good thing for a designer.
My process doesn’t really change depending if it’s for mobile or the web. I take each challenge and apply my 15 years of experiences which includes lots of mistakes and triumphs. That’s where the learning is though.
Specialities
Wireframing/Prototyping
It could start at a sketch on a napkin or more detailed layout on a computer. Communicating intent and figuring out flow is an important step to the process. I must admit that I struggle at making very basic wireframes. Most of the time UI elements get mixed in. My prototyping tool of choice is InVision and it allows me to quickly share flows with people.
User interface
If I had to wear a hat on the team, I’d be the UI Designer. This is where I’m most comfortable and have the most experience. I’m comfortable working within an existing design framework or creating one from scratch. Collaboration is key to a success of any project. When I’m challenged about any design is when I’m doing my best work. Collaboration can come from other designer, developers or really anyone on the team. The words, “Looks good!” on my first pass is like nails on a chalk board.
usability
Without seeing how people use your designs, what’s the point? This happens through conducting user testing, reviewing analytics, using A/B tests and studying the results and listening to feedback. I’m looking to learn more about best practices as well in my next position.
Nice to have’s
I freelanced for 10 years running my own business so I understand what it takes to do so. This allows me to bring input to all aspects of a business, not just design related items. 90% of the websites I did the design for I also did the front-end coding and implemented content managements systems. My CMS of choice at that time was Expression Engine but now I’m very comfortable with WordPress and SquareSpace.
My understanding of how to build the designs I create allows me to work really well with developers. Very rarely do I ever hand over a design that is impossible to implement and communication between design and development is really smooth.
Graphic Design
I’m not pursuing a print related position but I have the skills to do anything print related and do so often for companies. If it’s business cards, flyers, posters, brochures or even magazine layouts I have experience doing pretty much anything print related. Logos were a large part of my freelancing business as well.
Photography/Videography
I have a background in professional photography and videography (Haha, it’s really different then still images so can’t really call myself a pro). This does allow myself to have a creative outlet outside of design but also train my eye for what looks good and feels right.
Let's Chat.
Use the form below to tell me about your project or job you’d like to speak with me about. You may also email or call me to set up a meeting.