Hi, I’m Sierra! I have 15+ years of experience as a creative professional, a Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Corporate Design Experience.
I believe that listening closely and finding thoughtful, professional solutions is just as important as being skilled at design. Before starting this business, I spent over a decade learning from creative professionals and business administrators. Early on, I landed corporate contracts and worked under senior designers whose mentorship was invaluable, but I quickly realized that world wasn’t for me. Design is a powerful tool and I want to use my power for good. Now I focus on helping small businesses and non-profits thrive by highlighting good people, products, and services. I work with inspiring clients daily, and I may be delusional but I actually do kind of think we can change the world together!
Sustainable, Natural, and Adventurous
I want to feel like my work is honest, like I can throw myself behind a project because it is actually real and important. I want to be inspired to give it my all.
These are also the industries where I spend most of my money. They are activities I enjoy doing and products I consume. Because of this, I know how to brand them, define the target audience, and how to ensure connection.
I’ve worked with farmers, artisans and makers, musicians, bee keepers, conservation teams, and more. Most businesses I work with are either solo-preneurs or small teams who have been in business for a few years.
My Design Style Is:
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Illustrative
Each brand I create is illustration heavy. I can’t help myself, I just get carried away with ideas! Which is a win for you because custom illustrations are a great way to further establish your brand personality and recognition. I draw everything by hand before moving to the computer, no AI or downloaded assets, it’s all built entirely from scratch and 100% unique to you.
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Earthy
Nature is my biggest muse and if you’ve found yourself this deep into my website then chances are you can relate. Not every brand has to be completely nature inspired, but I do typically lean into organic colors, shapes, and textures.
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Timeless
My goal is to build brands that last so I try hard to stay away from trends. Branding is a huge investment and one that you shouldn’t have to keep making every year just to keep up. I rely on the brand strategy to shape the course of the visual identity, ensuring what we build is classic and sustainable.
Offering Branding, Creative Direction, Websites, Graphic Design, and Illustration
For over five years, I have been helping small businesses and nonprofits across Appalachia strategically connect with the correct audience and gain confidence in their brand. Whether you’re just starting out or you have already been in business for years, working with me will provide clarity, purpose, and the support of a creative professional.
Education
Bachelors of Fine Arts in Fine Art with a Concentration in Photography from the University of West Georgia
Work Experience
7 years of Photo Studios & Print Shops, 2 years of freelance corporate design, 5 years of Sierra Dawn Design Co. and a whole lot of business administration jobs in between. I’m older than I look!
Location
I live in Swannanoa, NC and I’ve been in the Asheville Area since 2021. I am originally from Villa Rica, GA.
Swannanoa, NC
In late September 2024, my town was decimated by Hurricane Helene. We were all severely unprepared for a hurricane to hit the mountains and unfortunately many people did not survive. Many months later, we are still struggling to recover and rebuild what’s left of our neighborhoods and town. In October, I helped launch Swannanoa Grassroots Alliance, a group of locals focused on recovery efforts and making sure our little unincorporated village is accounted for in the months and years to come. Please visit the site for ways to help.
Find me on Instagram @sierradawn_design
