From a young age, it was clear I was destined to be a creative force. Little "Stephie" was always singing, dancing, and turning every corner of the house into a makeshift art studio. My teenage years saw this energy evolve into a love for writing and performing arts, where I honed my expressive spirit. But as adulthood unfolded, I found myself on a different path—working as an administrator in the property management field. Oddly enough, it was there that my creative spark reignited. Writing property descriptions and crafting marketing materials reminded me of my true passion: creating.
What truly sets me apart isn't just my knack for design or my ability to write compelling copy. It's my unique blend of skills and experiences. With a rich background in corporate documentation and an empathetic understanding of diverse human stories, I bring a well-rounded approach to every project. My genuine love for seeing people thrive fuels my work, and my process is grounded in patience, collaboration, and a deep commitment to capturing each client’s essence.
For me, every project begins with a story—your story. Your personality, dreams, challenges, and aspirations serve as the foundation for my creativity. No two projects are alike, because no two clients are alike. This philosophy ensures my work is not only unique but also deeply meaningful and impactful.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me indulging in my favorite creative outlets: baking up sweet treats, immersing myself in live music, or treasure hunting in thrift shops. These moments of discovery and joy feed into my work, reminding me that inspiration is everywhere. Oh, and one fun quirk—I firmly believe a person’s playlist can reveal so much about them, so don’t be surprised if I ask you to share yours during our collaboration!
If you’re considering working with me, know this: I’m just as excited about the possibilities as you are. All I ask is mutual respect, a willingness to have a little fun, and an open heart. If that sounds like you, let’s create something amazing together!
Stephanie
Iconic is an adjective used to describe something or someone that is widely recognized and well-established as a symbol of a certain era, genre, style, or quality. An iconic entity is emblematic, possessing a distinct character or quality that makes it stand out and endure in the collective memory across generations or within specific cultures. It often carries connotations of excellence or innovation and represents the epitome or a defining benchmark in its field.
In the context of people, places, objects, or designs, being iconic means that they have achieved a level of fame or recognition that transcends the ordinary, becoming a point of reference or inspiration. This status is usually the result of unique features, historical significance, groundbreaking achievements, or the ability to encapsulate key values, trends, or sentiments of a time.
For businesses and brands, becoming iconic involves creating something truly distinctive and meaningful that resonates deeply with audiences, allowing it to stand the test of time and become emblematic of particular values or experiences.
Diagnosed with ADHD at 31, I discovered a silver lining in my creative endeavors. This revelation was not just a diagnosis but a key that unlocked my true potential (and explained so much). My neurodivergence, with its abundant ideas and creativity, has become my greatest ally, allowing me to view design through a unique lens of color, shape, and symbolism.
But like everyone, life has also thrown other challenges to navigate. From navigating the shadows of anxiety and depression to now advocating for mental health and domestic abuse survivors, my journey has been a testament to resilience. Each hurdle crossed has given me and my work depth, empathy, and a profound understanding of the human spirit.
As a single mother to a vibrant toddler boy and a darling baby girl, I've faced adversity with determination, always striving to transform obstacles into stepping stones. This journey of mine, marked by loss, love, and relentless perseverance, has deeply influenced my approach to design and life. Humility has taught me empathy and empathy has shaped my approach to life.
My passion for helping others—whether through advocacy, being a friend, or my professional skills—stems from a belief in lifting others and making a positive impact, no matter how small my role may seem. Working with clients who share a vision of helping people gives my creativity purpose and direction.
Copyright © 2024 Stephanie Gatrost - All Rights Reserved.
Digital Design and Workbook Creation
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