Mallory Dean

Mallory Dean

Brand + Web Designer / Brand Strategist / Founder of Citrine Studio

Myrtle Beach, SC

www.studio-citrine.com
instagram @citrinestudios.design
tiktok
youtube

WHAT DO YOU DO?

“I’m a Brand and Web Designer, Brand Strategist, Content Creator, and Founder of Citrine Studio. ”

I work with small-medium-sized businesses and creative entrepreneurs to strategically grow their brands through visual brand identity and web design. I work with each brand to write their unique story and weave that into every design touchpoint and experience.

WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?

I've had quite the journey to get to this point! When I was younger I was interested in film and video editing which led me to film school for a bit. I soon realized what I liked was translating stories into digital media, and switched to studying graphic design and studio art at undergraduate school. In my undergraduate studies, I explored many creative avenues including product design, typography, weaving, and fiber arts.

After graduating and completing a few internships I started working full-time in-house at a pet Insurance company as a graphic designer. While I was working there I became good friends with the front-end Developer which piqued my interest in UX and web design. I decided to go back to school and do an online Master's certificate in UX design and research. This experience gave me a lot of insight into how important research, strategy, and iteration are in the design process.

I soon pivoted to working as a graphic designer and UX specialist for a small branding agency. While working at the agency I also started creating resourceful design content on TikTok and Instagram which has most recently taken off and encouraged me to run my brand + web studio while creating content full time.

How do you stand out in your field?

My process is unique. I start with heavy strategy and research. I take the time to understand the client's industry, business history, and where they want to be heading. This greatly influences how I go about my design work, and it helps to take away subjectivity when deciding on visual directions.

With my background in visual and UX design, I can bring critical design thinking skills that are sometimes lacking from the typical graphic design process.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?

A brand identity system for a retro/grandma's house-inspired thrift store! I am also continuously working on my studio's online presence, content creation and digital products.

WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?

My style tends to change a bit with every project, but in general, I tend to work with bright colors, funky typography, and dynamic layouts. Depending on the brand strategy, the visuals will differ and reflect the interests of the target audience. No matter the project, I like to be playful and push my creativity. My project for GoodDays Activewear is a good representation of how I like to play with shapes and textures in my designs!

WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?

I would love to focus on expanding my Web Design skills so I can create innovative and personalized designs for each brand. There are many opportunities to create interactive digital experiences through custom animations and abstract layouts, which is something I would love to offer my clients.

WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?

Consistently creating content while trying to keep a steady stream of client inquiries. Keeping up with Social Media is a grind and requires a lot of effort and time to keep up with trends and ideate for multiple channels.

IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?

I would love a personal chef!! I spend a lot of time cooking that I could be using to work or relax. I would also like to hire a social media manager one day to help me balance my studio and personal content creation channels.

LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?

I would go back to college graduation day and tell myself to let go of control and fear. I was struggling with where the future would take me, and if I would be successful as a designer. The truth is, I still don't know where the future will take me and that's okay! Do your best with every day you are given and you will end up where you are destined to be.

IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?

I would love to talk with an experienced design studio owner and get advice on scaling my business and client base. It's always better to learn from someone else's mistakes before making them on my own!

WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?

I am looking for Brand + Web Design and Strategy projects for small-medium sized businesses looking for a complete rebrand and visual direction, as well as a brand strategy to provide a strong foundation for building loyal customers.

I would love to work with small boutiques, influencers / content creators, artists, and businesses within the travel/leisure industry.

DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.

My ideal client collaboration would be with a small brand looking for complete brand guidance and fresh visual identity. I love to work with brands that aren't afraid to be a little cheeky and have fun with their visuals. In general, I need to take on clients that trust my process and professional experience as this makes for the best relationships that have the potential to go long-term.

Who is a creative that has helped you elevate your work?

Chris Do and the Futur Team! I've taken so many courses from them, as well as geek out on their youtube channel. Half of my progress as a designer can be attributed to them.

HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?

Hit up the form on my website!

Or send me a direct email to hello@studio-citrine.com
Include your brand's socials / current website, scope, goals for the project, and budget range if possible!

HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?

Indulge in other forms of Art! Go to a Museum or take a class.

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This member profile was originally published in June 2021.