I've been directly involved in nearly all aspects of the design field. More than a decade ago, I started off with a traditional marketing mindset. I focused mainly on creating print ads, email campaigns, and social media content/management.
My next big jump was head first into packaging design and I fell in love. With experience working with licensed brands, in-house brands, and designing private-label artwork for some of the biggest of big-box retailers, I've quickly become a packaging expert. I've built everything from hangtags, boxes, and blisters to custom in-store displays. I love being handed a new product and figuring out the best way to make it shine.
Along the way, I've helped develop several brands from the ground up. In 2019, I spearheaded the design and implementation of five new sub-brand identities in a three month period. This included logo design, brand standards, updated packaging, and consistent application across platforms. I believe deadlines are meant to be hit.
More recently, I have started to embrace all things digital. Although my heart is in print and packaging, I love seeing the impact that enhanced content and other graphic design decisions can have on ecommerce sales.
As Creative Manager, I currently lead a team of talented designers, providing creative direction and guidance across several growing brands. They make me look good!
TL;DR - I've worn a lot of hats over the past 10+ years as a designer. With a background in art direction and marketing, I specialize in packaging, branding, and digital design.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolegambalCONTACT ME
A few years back, I decided I wanted to learn how to paint with watercolors. My goal was to use this medium as a way to record memories, slow down, and spend more time in nature. Had I ever used watercolors before? Of course not. But being inexperienced has never stopped me before.
The only way to become good at something is to do it. I take this pretty seriously.
I view painting as a project that's purely for me. So while I can accept that I'll never be a watercolor expert by any means, I have enjoyed seeing my skills improve as I keep up with it and learn from others that I meet along the way. I discover something new with each painting. And I make plenty that I'm not particularly proud of, but, regardless of the outcome, I am accomplishing the goals I originally set out for myself and love sharing them with others. Win-win.
And it's fun!
