Marquee Design Studio
1. How many years have you been in business?
I’m a graphic designer who’s been designing branding, events & marketing materials for 6+ years. I also have my own map art business #MapsByMarquee that was started in March 2021.
2. How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
I always knew I wanted to be in a visually creative industry. Working at a few jobs that didn’t give me that fulfillment encouraged me to get into the graphic design field and I’ve never looked back!
For #MapsByMarquee, I was laid off and unemployed during the pandemic, all while moving into a new apartment. I wanted a cheap and personal way to create artwork for my new place and decided to digitally draw map prints that don’t necessarily look like maps, but represent a few of my favorite locations. I posted them on Instagram and the response was immense—immediately, a business was born.
3. What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
I bring my drawing experience into my graphic design work and vice versa. Running your own business takes a lot of work, effort, and dedication—running two of your own businesses brings even greater challenges. Being able to interchangeably use skills between the two paths of my career gives me endless creative resources to pull from.
4. What do you feel gives you longevity in the industry with so many options?
For #MapsByMarquee, there is absolutely nothing like it out there—it’s one of a kind. Map prints are a big seller for artwork or gifts, but they’re all very impersonal and visually lackluster. My maps show your favorite location in a fun & creative way, since they just look like abstract pieces of artwork and not necessarily maps.
5. How do you positively impact your clientele?
I get so many messages from #MapsByMarquee clients that gave my map as a gift to someone who absolutely loved it—a few have even said their recipients cried upon receiving it! It’s so special to be able to give people such joy through art & to visually articulate their memories.
6. What is your favorite part of your job?
Bringing people’s vision to life, whether through map prints or branding!
7. What is the most memorable feedback a client/ has given you?
Early in my career (and I mean super early), I went to a reputable design studio for an interview looking for an internship. They asked me to show them a few things I could do using Photoshop, and long story short, they told me maybe I don’t have a career in graphic design in my future. I walked out of that room discouraged but determined to show them that they’re going to regret telling me so. Almost 7 years later, I can confidently say I’ve proved them wrong.
8. What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
Trust yourself, your ability, and your work, and the client will trust you too.
9. What do you want to achieve next?
Another 100+ sales for #MapsByMarquee!
Marquee Design Studio can be found at https://www.marqueedesignstudio.com/
Instagram/Social Media Page: @marquee.designstudio