Overview
I am a freelance designer and art director. I've worked with American Girl publishing as an art director on their award-winning magazine, as well as printed books and ebooks, for over 7 years. Designing for children is a skill and passion of mine that I bring to all my projects whether it's for kids or adults. You'll find I have a bright, clean, and often whimsical style. My specialty is in covers and design-rich layouts, and I work in all mediums from printed (books, calendars, etc.) to digital (ebooks, online games, videos, etc.). I can handle everything from designing eye-catching covers, producing photo shoots, and commissioning illustrators - even dabbling in illustration myself. Uniquely, I'm a master at project managing books from start to finish, print processes, and meeting tight deadlines within budget. I am proudest of my typographic skills but can handle most challenges thrown my way. Batters up!
Services
Non-Fiction
Calendars
Children’s Non-Fiction
Cooking, Food, Wine, & Spirits
DIY & Crafts
Fiction
Humor & Comedy
Middle Grade
Picture Books
Languages
English
Awards
- American Advertising Federation - 4 Professional ADDY Awards (2008)
- Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Award for American Girl Magazine (2015)
- 2017 Moms Choice (gold) Award for The Lemonade Stand Cookbook
- 2017 NAPPA Award (National Parenting Products Award) for Lemonade Stand Cookbook
Certifications
- Associate Degree of Applied Arts in Graphic Design and Illustration from Madison College
Work experience
Self-employed
Mar, 2015 —
Present
Book art direction and design (including ebook conversions, full re-designs, and illustration editing). Some notable projects were with Burnt Cheese Press, Aubre Andrus, LLC. (author and classroom speaker), and the Literacy Network. I've worked with a variety of clients including independent authors, artists, bloggers, advertising agencies, start-ups, and non-profits. There isn't much that I haven't tackled in the 15+ years as a designer (both editorial and advertising!) Proudly, my greatest accomplishment is having influenced so many young minds and inspired many generations through my content and editorial designs.
American Girl Publishing - Magazine
Mar, 2008 —
Jan, 2015
(almost 7 years)
Responsible for the look and integrity of American Girl’s bi-monthly, award winning children’s lifestyle magazine, ensuring that it fits within American Girl’s visual brand family. Including e-books, paper activity books, calendars, stickers, and online content.
Kennedy Communications Advertising Agency
Mar, 2007 —
Mar, 2008
(about 1 year)
Concepting, art directing, and designing advertising campaigns for clients.
American Girl/Mattel Inc.
May, 2006 —
Mar, 2007
(10 months)
Design print catalog. Assist with product photo shoots.
Portfolio
Kids have been running lemonade stands for decades, whether to raise money for a new bike, for a charitable cause, or simply to conquer boredom. Inspired by dozens of kid experts from all over the country, the author has poured her expertise as a food writer, ... read more
School is back in session and Frog and Hamster are ready to do it all again. They may not be the most talented or the most popular, but they are who they are, Frog and Hamster, best friends.
"Click." "Tap." Tag and post. An adored baby tells a modern tale about life in today's digital world. #BabyLove: My Social Life highlights the social phenomena of sharing daily activities using technology and social networks
A curious toddler loves to play…especially with his mommy's smartphone! When Mommy finds him using her phone without permission, it’s the perfect teaching moment. Mommy reminds her little one that what matters most in life is time together filled with love and... read more
No more boring bedroom! This e-short contains tons of ideas for decorating your room to show off your own unique style, plus tips for organizing your stuff to make space clutter-free.
Celebrate your unique talents! Shine Bright is all about exploring what makes you extraordinary, whether you're in or out of the spotlight. You'll find fun ways to embrace your personal sparkle, from quizzes to exciting activities and crafts.
You'll love designing your own detailed desserts, sensational sweets, and complex confections! Large fold-out posters, special foil- and flocked-art pages, and intricate art designs promise hours and hours of coloring fun! When you're finished with an art piec... read more
Paula has 8 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Jeff V.
Jan, 2018
Julie M.
Sep, 2017
Julie M.
Sep, 2017
Corinne W.
Jun, 2017
Bob F.
May, 2017
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