Graphic Designer Profile - Kim from Paper&Flo

In Part two of our Graphic Designer Profile series, we had a chat with the wonderful Kim from Paper&Flo. Having worked with her many times over the years, her work ethic and design skills speak for themselves.

How long have you been a graphic designer?

I have been a graphic designer for almost 12 years now. When I was in school I was drawn to arts and creative skills which lead me to studying design at University, completing the Bachelor of Design - Visual communication.

I started my career in media agencies creating advertising and magazines. I was absolutely thrilled in 2012 to be offered a job at Port Adelaide Football Club working there for 7+ years and in recent times as the Senior Graphic Designer, an experience that has shaped me as a designer and as a person who is ready for any challenge. It was an honour to be a custodian of a brand club with a rich history, with 50,000+ members and many more fans.

Nowadays you will find working on Paper&Flo - focusing on boutique branding, wedding and event stationery and custom portrait illustrations. Paper&flo took off during Covid-19, as lockdown gave me time to explore my personal design style and took my design hobbies to another level.

Pictured: 5 x 7 Invitations, white ink on Kraft 225GSM with Knight Smooth Envelope

What inspires you?

As a design aesthetic I am inspired by rustic, natural and boho styles. I am inspired by trends in event styling and also home decor.

Which is why I love texture, matte paper and natural tone paper.

I am obsessed with Hash Print for their white ink print on coloured stock.

Pictured: Business Cards, white ink on Kraft 225GSM

One word to describe your design style?

Warm. I love texture and colour. I favour use of a clean design but not afraid to add detail.

Your most challenging design request?

I can think of many challenging projects in terms of turning around design in extremely tight turnaround with a number of stakeholders involved in the design process, in particular for large events, however these are the most rewarding projects I’ve worked on. I can look back and think “can’t believe we did that!”

It helps when you are working with other amazing designers along the way who as super supportive and talented.

Pictured: See Paper&Flo for information

What is your favourite thing to design?

Invitations and stationery! It’s a beautiful insight to set the mood. The physical aspect of receiving printed paper goods or seeing signage in action is very satisfying.

I also love social media & digital marketing.

What is your paper go to: Matte or gloss? Textured or smooth? Neutrals or Colour?

I believe every paper type has its perfect purpose and usage.

My go to however is textured Matte paper / coloured!

Pictured: DL size Menus, printed on Curious Matter Black Truffle, 270GSM white ink.

Advice for budding designers/graduates?

Number one piece of advice is don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on your portfolio and keep evolving it to suit your goals. Tailor every cover letter and every portfolio to the job you want. If you get an interview always leave printed items or something unique to make you stand out. Good things come to those who care and work hard. Align yourself with brands that match your values as well as design aesthetics.

Pictured: See Paper&Flo for information

Hardest part of being a graphic designer?

The hardest part of being a designer is educating others the value of how good design and how it equates to better brand connection or an experience.

Advice for anyone planning their wedding re invites etc.

Colour palette is a great place to start for your design or theme. Draw inspiration from the style and characteristics of your venue.

Plan for name cards, menus and signage to match in a set once the invitations are created. The little details can make a difference and can work for any budget.

Pictured: DL size Menus, printed on Curious Matter Black Truffle, 270GSM white ink.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years ?

Hopefully- Still doing what I love as a designer.

Creating many more invites! I would also love to thank the whole crew at Hash Print for being super supportive of my work and being great to work with.