Stacey Shaller
Founder of Outside Minds Creative / Creative Director
Chicago, IL
www.outsidemindscreative.com
instagram @outsideminds_creativeco
behance
linkedin
Q What do you do?
“I craft iconic brands for planet-saving businesses. I am a visual storyteller utilizing creative graphic design solutions to help my clients build a loyal following of repeat customers.”
My work is built on a solid strategic foundation ensuring that my clients receive a comprehensive brand identity system that exemplifies their unique story and evolves with them over time. Some of the specific things I create are brand identities, event logos, print collateral, web designs, social media designs, digital marketing collateral, and much more!
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I studied painting and graphic design in college but I’ve always been passionate about wildlife, animals, and nature. After working in advertising and corporate companies for over 10 years, I decided to combine my passions and start my studio.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I stand out by using a lot of hand-drawing in my work. This allows me to craft something truly unique and ownable. Instead of drawing inspiration from Pinterest and Instagram, I draw inspiration from my clients’ stories. Design has to be strategic in order to be effective long-term plus, this ensures that I’m creating something unique and avoiding short-lived trends. I also serve a specific niché, regenerative agriculture. There is a lack of communication professionals serving this area of sustainability and climate solutions.
Q What are you working on right now?
Currently, I’m creating brand identities for two nonprofits that have annual fundraising events. One is a dog rescue and the other is an organization providing gently used clothing to people in need.
Q What’s your style?
My style tends to be a bit quirky and imperfect because of my hand-drawing. I draw a lot of inspiration from nature, purpose, and the story that I’m trying to convey. My work for Sunrise Farms is a good example of my style although spending so many years in advertising has allowed me to develop a good range of styles. I want each client to have their own unique look and not a portfolio of work that all looks alike.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I am looking to focus on the regenerative agriculture industry.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Effectively communicating the value of design. A lot of people think of design as decoration. It can be difficult to sell the value of my work when people can go to freelancer sites and pay very little for a logo or design piece. The undervaluing of graphic design and branding work is very frustrating.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Admin tasks and lead generation.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Forge your own path. If you feel pulled to a certain industry or cause, go for it. Also, you’ll attract what you put out in the world so fill your portfolio with work that you enjoyed making.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
How to bring regenerative agriculture to the masses and also, how SEO works.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
Branding and graphic design partnerships with regenerative agriculture businesses, conservation organizations, and other climate related organizations.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client has a story to tell and is passionate about reconnecting with and preserving nature. They know the value of effective storytelling and are ready to invest in their business by hiring a professional designer. They are brave and willing to take creative risks.
My ideal collaboration is with another entrepreneur or company that is on a mission to heal the planet.
Q What is your rate?
Brand identity designs typically start at $2,500 and monthly retainer services start at $3,500/month. Project-based work depends on scope and complexity.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Visit my website and book a call! I love to meet people face-to-face and hear your story.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Safiya Allaf is an amazing copywriter for circular fashion brands. Laura Plug is an kick-ass SEO expert also helping climate-conscious clients build organic traffic.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Going outside and exploring new places with lots of rest in between.
This member profile was originally published in July 2023, updated August 2024