Gala

NEED
The fundraising arm of College of the Mainland, the Foundation (a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization), hosted a gala event in April 2023 to raise funds towards building students’ futures. Marketing material criteria included usage of a hot air balloon, the colors red, yellow and blue, as well as the provided headline content implemented across print and digital invitations, digital ads, sponsorship levels and RSVP cards, email, Powerpoint deck, and program booklets. Event signage would also recognize high-profile donors.

APPROACH
Working closely with the Foundation team, target audiences and various details were clarified. Research revealed many gala events in the marketplace lean towards designs of refined black elegance. However, I felt that cliche approach was not aligned with this project’s criteria. Venturing into exploratory territory regarding gala materials, a new design of elegance emerged in rich blue skies and and rich typography, engaging viewers while promoting a bright future for the subject at hand.

RESULT
The gala was very successful raising a record donation amount to provide for students in need.

ROLE
Research, design thinking, co-editor, typography, graphic design and layout