Today we’d like to introduce you to Elisa Watson.
Elisa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Art has always been a driving force in my life. My mom saw that spark early on, saving my artwork in a memory box when I was just three years old. By the time I was a junior in high school, I was creating print ads in Microsoft Publisher for a local real estate office, hand-drawing fonts, and designing and silk-screening shirts for our Kindergarten partners. When my high school art teacher and mentor, Mr. Krush, introduced me to the world of graphic design, I was instantly hooked.
Choosing the right university was my first big step. UMBC offered the progressive and comprehensive Graphic Design program I was looking for, and I loved every minute of it. Moving from small-town southern Maryland to the Baltimore area was a big change, but I quickly fell in love with the city and its creative energy. After graduating in 2004, I began my career at Matthews Media Group in Rockville, where I gained invaluable experience before returning to Baltimore for a contract position at Eisner Communications. That opportunity led me to MedStar Health’s Corporate Marketing Department, where I’m forever grateful to the team who helped shape me—not just as a designer, but as a professional, a listener, and a communicator.
Over the past two decades, my journey has taken me from corporate marketing at a major healthcare organization, to Art Director at the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (where I met my amazing husband!), and back into agency life at Ainsley & Co. in 2012. In 2014, I shifted my focus toward work that aligned with my values—partnering with nonprofits to make a real impact—and joined Redstart Creative as Creative Director. During my seven and a half years there, I helped clients across Baltimore and beyond elevate their marketing, communications, and fundraising efforts.
In early 2024, I took the next big leap, launching Sunny Side Creative with my business partner, Jess Gill. Together, we work with nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and small businesses to illuminate what makes them shine.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
What would a journey be without a few bumps? Like any career, mine has had its highs and lows—but the biggest challenge I faced was finding my place in the industry. Over the years, I’ve worked in large agencies and small ones, in-house teams, nonprofits, and for-profits. I’ve volunteered my time and served on the AIGA Baltimore Board. Each of those experiences taught me something new and helped me uncover where I truly belong: working with people who are helping others—whether that’s supporting communities, protecting the planet, or meeting critical needs.
Discovering where my skills and passion intersect was the turning point in my career. It led me to dedicate the last decade to working with nonprofits, where creativity has a direct impact on meaningful change. Want to make a difference in the world? Partner with a nonprofit!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a graphic designer and creative director, I specialize in branding, cross-platform campaigns, communications, marketing, and advertising. I’m known for creating visual identities for nonprofits that authentically reflect their mission and vision, and for developing strategies that help organizations reach their communications and fundraising goals.
What I’m most proud of is exactly what I’m known for—being a trusted creative partner to nonprofits that are making a difference. I care deeply about my clients and the causes they serve, and I bring that same level of care to every project.
What sets me apart is my ability to listen with intention. I don’t overlook details or dismiss feedback; I take the time to understand what truly matters to each client. And when they need more, I rise to the challenge—refining, improving, and always striving to get it right.
What makes you happy?
My kids. I absolutely adore my kids and they bring me such joy and happiness. They help fuel my creativity and keep me on my toes! They often want to know what I am working on and love looking at current projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: thesunnysidecreative.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/sunnysidecreativeagency/
- Facebook: facebook.com/TheSunnySideCreative
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/sunny-side-creative/
