
Beautiful Branding by Nicole Speake
Some of you may notice a new look to StylishUpNorth.com– A new gorgeous logo, vibrant colors, cohesive look, and beautiful patterns throughout. I am super grateful for this new look created by Nicole Speake of Nicole Speake Brand & CreativeDesign, based out of Chicago, Illinois. She decided to feature the bright blue shades of Lake Michigan in my color palette for my blog StylishUpNorth.com Nicole then expertly created a modern arrow design, appropriately pointing north. I can not say enough great things about her work and her as a person, simply a joy to work with and I have been impressed with everything she does! Find all the gorgeous details of my Stylish Up North branding here.
Originally from the South, Nicole is an expert in monograms that feature bright, bold patterns and she often creates logos to incorporate a brand’s initials. From preppy and classic to chic and modern, this branding gal can do it all! In the gift and paper design industry for the past 15 years, she is also the co-owner of an invitation and stationery company, Nico and Lala.
“I adore patterns, monograms, and bright, bold colors and this is seen throughout many of my designs,” she says to me as I’m gushing over her website portfolio. I notice she creates one-of-a-kind beautiful watercolor crests, Nicole explains, “I rediscovered my love of painting a couple of years ago and find it so therapeutic. I wanted an outlet to display my work and think it pairs well with brand design. My approach to watercolor is very similar to branding; I love expanding upon my paintings and creating patterns and products for a cohesive look.”
The stylish and fabulous Nicole just launched a brand design company, Nicole Speake Brand & Creative Design, which, in short, focuses on creating cohesive, captivating brand identities. Her various personalized services include a comprehensive brand “build-out” package which includes the primary logo, logo variations, brand marks, custom patterns, brand color palette, brand style board, e-mail signature design, print collateral design, social media icons/templates, and brand launch graphics. She also offers website design and a la carte services. Nicole’s grand vision is to provide her clients with everything they need to successfully brand their company. She expands on her passion by telling me, “I love helping small businesses and the diversity of design styles each one brings.”
The designer finds her inspiration organically. She says, “Chicago has so many buildings that feature stunning architectural details. I find myself taking photos of random structures and am in awe at the creativity of architects and artists from decades (or even centuries) ago!” Her motto: “Your business is unique and your brand should be, too.” Outside of the design world, this marketing maven enjoys yoga, running, and traveling.
Check out her complete portfolio on her website: www.nicolespeake.com
Make sure to follow her on Instagram: @nicolespeake
(AND make sure you are following me on Instagram @StylishUpNorth)
B R A N D & C R E A T I V E D E S I G N