take root. « shaina’s weblog

take root.

31Mar08

For the better part of this semester my Professional Practices class has been working on creating the identity for a local non-profit organization whose goal is to plant trees in the city of Chattanooga. This organization was started by a team of eight people who are a part of Leadership Chattanooga. They came to us with basically an empty slate design-wise, so we got the opportunity to really be creative and see what we were able to come up with.

First off, the organization needed a name. The name the class decided on is “Take Root.” We chose this name because it really fits the organization and what they are about. The words “Take Root” work on a number of different levels as well. It refers to a tree taking root in the ground, as well as people taking root in Chattanooga (because of its cleaner air). “Take Root” can also serve as a call to action, inviting people to get involved. Once we had decided on a name, we each designed several logos, and as a class chose the most fitting one.

After creating a name, logo, and tagline, we could go about designing a number of things for Take Root. From brochures and rack cards to letterheads, envelopes, and t-shirts. This was the most exciting part of the project for me. Getting to create something for a client and see my work be implemented in a real-life situation was a rewarding experience. I was a part of the Event Team, in charge of everything relating to Take Root’s launching Arbor Day event. We designed banners, made posters, sent out press-releases, and put together press packs for the media.

Overall, the Take Root project was a very good experience. I was able to learn a lot about working with clients and everything that it takes to complete a project in the “real-world.” I don’t think I could have learned these things from simply being in the classroom. The actual experience was essential and I feel very lucky, and more well-prepared to enter the work world after having been a part of this project.