Smithsonian Groundbreaking Event Branding and Collateral

Logo Design

Editorial

Event Collateral

Concept Development

Creative Direction

Print Production

Challenge:

The Smithsonian selected me to design visual materials (logo, program, place cards, menu, VIP credentials, etc.) for a high-profile museum groundbreaking attended by luminaries like President Obama, Oprah, and Congressman John Lewis. With a non-negotiable deadline and prestige at stake, every piece needed to reflect dignity, history, and celebration.

Approach:

  • Developed a logo inspired by the basket-weave architecture with a gold-bronze palette, using metallic inks and engraving for elegance

  • Created a 16‑page full-color keepsake program with curated images, historical quotes, and sourced letters from presidents

  • Coordinated closely with the Smithsonian team, worked directly with vendors to approve papers, inks, vellum sleeves, and finishes

  • Managed production timeline during a multi-day on-site review in DC

Result:

The sophisticated branding and collateral elevated the weekend’s tone, honoring the occasion. A second print run of 20,000 keepsake programs was ordered—underscoring both quality and demand.