Zo Fitz
Digital Creative / Content Strategist / Designer
Denver, CO
www.itszofitz.com
instagram @itszofitz / @fifthavegrocery
Q What do you do?
“I’m redefining what it means to be creative in the digital landscape. ”
I work with young businesses to build a creative direction and ongoing strategy that transcends run-of-the-mill branding to excite audiences and establish a dedicated following. My approach spans the entire process, from big-picture to deep in the weeds of a project. We work together on brand persona, visual identity, tone of voice, social strategy, web presence and more, as I take your big ideas and turn them into everything from detailed mood boards to individual graphic assets.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
As a proud cusper (that weird space between gen z and millennials), I grew up watching the wild west of the internet transform into what we know it as today. Since I got my tiny hands on a keyboard, I’ve been looking for ways to make things online. From the hundreds of websites I built as a ten year old to studying typography in high school, my passion has always been using this limitless digital landscape to create anything I can.
Starting my first job in high school as a freelance writer, I worked my way up from crafting SEO-focused blog posts to snagging an in-house position at a startup in NYC, eventually coming to the conclusion that being a copywriter wasn't enough. I wanted to learn it all.
For the past few years, I've worked long days (shout out to espresso, you're a real one) to hone my craft as a graphic designer, learn interactive web design, and work with dozens of clients on various projects that have helped me become the creative force I am today.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I am a true jack of all trades and I have no problem saying it. As a young professional, I was told again and again that I should narrow my scope for marketability. The truth is, though, my passion is general creation, specifically when it comes to how brands show up online. If you're looking for someone to hand off a project to, who will follow orders and work off to the side, you're in the wrong place. If you want a teammate who will collaborate with you and provide guidance on arguably the most important aspect of your business, I'm your guy.
Q What are you working on right now?
Right now I'm working on scaling my business to be able to support more clients directly. In the past I've collaborated with creative agencies, but right now I'm focused on connecting directly with business owners and only taking on a few projects that I truly believe in, so that I can dedicate myself properly to each.
Q What’s your style?
My style is definitely community-based, expansive, and as visually imaginative as makes sense for each client. For my personal branding I combined a variety of typefaces, colors, textures, and creative elements to showcase my belief in pushing the boundaries of branding and expressing myself in this exciting digital world we live in.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
If I had like 10 more hours in my day and a more powerful computer (sorry 2020 Macbook Air), I’d absolutely be teaching myself animation. We’re very much in the age of motion graphics and I would love nothing more than to utilize it for work with clients and personal projects.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Honestly, as mentioned above, my computer is hanging on by a thread. My poor little Macbook Air is a lovely little word-processing powerhouse, but start any Adobe programs and it’s screaming at me to end its suffering. Lack of funds in general is so limiting to the creative process—but ain’t that just a way for creatives in their 20s?
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Organization!!! I have a very creative brain (and ADHD) which is not exactly conducive to the whole work-for-yourself situation. A personal assistant that could help me remember to check in with old clients, update my resume, or simply ~eat lunch~ would be an incredible help.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I wish I could tell myself that everything I wanted to do was possible. I can make it in NYC. I can be a full-time creative. I can work for myself and make a living. There were so many times I doubted myself enough to take opportunities. Take them! Apply for things even if you don’t feel confident! You’ll never know until you try.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I think I’m finally getting into the stride of marketing myself, but it’s still a struggle. I’d love to learn more about how to properly market myself as a freelancer, ways to promote my business across different platforms, etc. Outreach is hard!
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I'm looking to connect with business owners who are energized about what they want to bring into the world but need a little help getting there. I offer a few different service packages where I work directly with you on various aspects of your brand. I only take on a few projects at a time, so reach out ASAP to snag a spot!
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
The last few projects that I've worked on have really showed me what I want in a partnership. I want to work with clients who are dedicated to the success of their business because they're truly passionate about what they're putting out into the world - not just the money they're bringing in. Businesses that have a unique aesthetic in mind, are interested in trying new things, or want to play around with different ideas are exactly who I'm looking to work with.
P.S. a great sense of humor is a huge plus!
Q What is your rate?
I work with clients on per-project, hourly, and day rates.
My per-project rates are listed on my website, including a full creative overhaul option which starts at $3100 and includes a 3-page Squarespace site design, 1 primary logo design, 4-page brand book, and social media resources. We can also create a tailored project based on your needs, which will vary in price.
For ongoing support, my hourly rate starts at $45 for brand new businesses and $65 for previously established brands. Day rates are a flat fee of $400 across the board and are granted special priority in my workflow.
I’m very open to negotiating rates dependent on my client's budget. I understand that having a preference for working with young companies means that having a lower rate is sometimes necessary, so turning away a client due to a lower budget isn’t something I do very often!
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
I love a good email! Sending in an email including your what you need help with, budget, time expectations, information about your business, and the best time for us to chat is perfect.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Ooo okay this is my favorite question! I love @jennadesigns_
She’s an incredible illustrator and a lovely person overall :) Would recommend her to anyone looking for digital illustration!!
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
A Haiku for You:
I love making things // So I make things every day // If I don’t I’m sad
This member profile was originally published in November 2022, Updated in September 2023