Today we’d like to introduce you to Mimi Blanchard
Hi Mimi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My designer’s journey began at 13 with Sonic the Hedgehog fan art commissions, and after 6 years of bringing Sonic and pals to life, I realized I needed to move on; it was during my time working in grocery stores that I learned about Human-Centered Design and Brand Strategy. These experiences taught me the importance of understanding user needs and insights to enhance their shopping experience. Today, I have over 12 years of experience in graphic and motion design, having worked with clients such as YouTube, Prada, Universal Music Group, and Google. I currently lead initiatives as a Senior Creative Director at Serendipitous Corp. LLC and serve as a Digital Transformation Specialist for the Maryland State Police.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My career has certainly had its challenges. Balancing my responsibilities between working in grocery stores and fulfilling orders for others highlighted the complexities of labor dynamics and often led to physical and emotional exhaustion. I also faced systemic discrimination that underscored the pervasive inequities experienced by marginalized individuals, particularly as a first-generation Thai-American, which can feel disheartening. Additionally, dealing with clients who lowballed prices and spoke down to me reinforced power dynamics in professional relationships, leaving me feeling devalued and reminding me of the broader struggles many face for recognition and respect.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a branding and design consultant, I create engaging visual identities and brand experiences for a variety of clients, including Google, Universal Music Group, and the Maryland State Police. My work involves everything from designing album covers and marketing materials to developing custom illustrations and motion graphics for campaigns like YouTube Gaming and Coachella. I take pride in my ability to blend creativity with data insights, ensuring that my designs resonate with audiences while effectively communicating brand messages. My commitment to human-centered design allows me to connect deeply with users, creating visuals that reflect their needs and aspirations.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Depending on who you ask, you’ll receive varying formulas for success. A couple of years into my career, I thought success was just about money and drawing. Now, success means researching a brand and its owners to create what they truly need: a higher return on investment and disproportionate value for their demographics. This requires a deep commitment to understanding the market landscape, analyzing competitors, and identifying the ‘Uncommon Denominator’ for my clients while considering the broader sociocultural dynamics at play.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mimib-designs.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mimi.designs.gfx/
