Type Driven and Handwritten
When I was the Merchandising Manager at Standard Market in Westmont, IL, I had the opportunity to work on a range of creative projects, from chalkboard signage and merchandising displays to branded environments. It was rewarding to craft hand-drawn signs, carefully lettering each chalkboard by hand to give the store a welcoming and personal feel. I genuinely enjoyed creating these pieces because they allowed me to combine my passion for graphic design with the practical needs of the store.
Yes, this too is hand drawn ↑.
I never did get a good photo of my favorite sign ↑. It was 10 feet long, and custom cut with an arch at the top. Thankfully, someone posted a close-up of it to Instagram years ago.
Alongside the signage, merchandising displays were another area where I could channel creativity. Whether setting up seasonal displays—like a whimsical candy-cane tree for the holidays—or simply arranging everyday items in appealing ways, my goal was always to make the shopping experience enjoyable and visually engaging for customers. It was satisfying to see how small touches could elevate the atmosphere in the store.
Photography was also a part of my role, allowing me to capture some of Standard Market’s character visually. Contributing images for the store’s website and social media helped maintain a consistent feel across all our branding. Overall, it was fulfilling to contribute to an environment where customers felt welcomed and inspired by thoughtful visual design.
Valentines Day paint can with custom label.
Custom made pie boxes branded with the Standard Market logo.
What makes you want to buy a candy cane more than a "Tim Burton" style candy cane tree?
