“There are three responses to a piece of design – yes, no and WOW! WOW is the one to aim for.”
Milton Glaser
Throughout history, design has often been a key determinant in the success or failure of new ideas. From advertising campaigns to logos to publication layouts, the look and feel of the final product weighs heavily upon how it is perceived by the target audience.
In today’s era of social media and AI, graphic design has become even more important. Content consumers are awash with information overload, and many of them have developed short attention spans. In order to get them to notice something, the design has to be both catchy and relevant.
Perhaps no one understands this dilemma than local professional designer Eileen Minton, owner of Eileen Minton Design. For over 38 years, she has been helping clients develop professional imagery that helps them stand out in today’s competitive environment. Recently, Hendersonville Lifestyle sat down with Eileen to learn more about her and the world of graphic design.
How did you get into the design business?
“I’ve always loved art, and I knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue a creative career. I attended the Art Institute of Philadelphia, and I got my start at Aloysius, Butler & Clark in Wilmington, Delaware. Over time, I made my way to Tennessee, and I went out on my own about fifteen years ago.”
What types of design work do you specialize in for your clients?
“I work with a diverse client base, so no two of my days are ever the same. My projects range from logos and branding to point-of-purchase materials, print and packaging. If something needs to look great, I can help bring it to life.”
How do you come up with unique design ideas?
“I start by understanding my client’s goals and audience, and then I build ideas from there. I draw inspiration from everyday life, current trends and past experience, and I refine my concepts until they feel both unique and effective.”
What are some of the tools of the trade that you use in your design work?
“My iMac and Adobe Creative Cloud applications are the primary tools which I use every day. However, tools are just the beginning. Equally important if not more so are my creativity, experience and attention to detail. Those are really the things that bring everything together.”
What are some of your proudest moments in your design career?
One of my greatest moments was seeing a logo I designed being installed on a high-rise building for a billion-dollar company. I’ve also loved seeing my work come to life through TV commercials and social media campaigns. But honestly, it’s the everyday moments that mean the most to me. For example, when I walk into a space and seeing something I created in the window, on a counter or even on a billboard.”
What do you enjoy the most about your work?
“I think that what I enjoy most is that most days, work doesn’t feel like work. I truly love what I do, and not everyone can say that. I get to take a blank screen and turn it into something impactful, helping clients build their brand and grow their businesses.”
What is the greatest lesson that you have learned from your design career?
“One of the most impactful things I’ve learned is to not take feedback personally but rather use it as an opportunity to improve the work. I truly value collaboration and I believe that every idea can lead to something great.”
If you could go back in time and give your younger self any advice, what would it be?
“Trust the process and have more confidence."
"I would tell my younger self to trust the process and to have more confidence. Everything works out the way it’s supposed to, and the challenges along the way help shape who you become."