Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Kelly Herrera.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
In 2003 Eclectik Design created our first Chicago Scene greeting card which has grown into a number of city designs and other fun, colorful cards to help busy professionals connect and communicate thoughtfully. Since then, we have expanded to include graphic design services for nonprofits, marketing directors, attorneys and small businesses.
Has it been a smooth road?
For a while it really was a roller coaster, and I didn’t know which direction I was headed. I knew my strengths were ideas, design, project organization, attention to details, and spatial layout, but I knew that didn’t make a business. Starting a business can sometimes be pure chaos, so I learned how to handle it. I learned to ask for help, that life is in the details, and that sometimes you need to take a step back to see the light. I’m always learning more, including the importance of continually educating myself. It doesn’t stop at college. Just this year, I took my first online business class, and it was great! I’m also very thankful that my business has helped me evolve and become a better person.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Eclectik Design story. Tell us more about the business.
Eclectik Design helps busy professionals communicate thoughtfully for meaningful connections. We do this through our greeting card/stationery program and graphic design services. In both areas we listen to our client’s needs in connection with who they’re trying to reach out to and then creatively meet their needs.
The greeting cards are created by me (Erin Kelly Herrera – Owner) and Jim Kelly (My Dad) with the help of freelancers. The original designs of the majority of our cards are created by hand using cut and torn pieces of paper. The technique of the collage process was passed down to Erin through Jim and continues today. This technique is a differentiator and is why our cards stand out and our clients are remembered.
We often hear from our clients that the cards they send are kept up or framed in offices or homes year round. We also have a nonprofit holiday card program where we create awareness and funds for the nonprofit. 10% of the gross card sale goes back to the nonprofit and there are no upfront costs.
I love the relationships we have with both our clients and vendors. It’s fun to work on an assortment of projects and with people who you like. It’s also encouraging when people reach out to us because they like what they see and want to work with us for their vision, whether that’s creating something completely new or using one of our designs to fit their brand.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I think there will continue to be a combination of both print, online and other forms of marketing. Everyone is getting bombarded on a daily basis with so many different modes of communication. It’s really about honing in on your message, respecting your client’s time and letting them know that you care.
Contact Info:
- Address: 161 North Clark Street, Suite 1600
Chicago, IL 60601 - Website: www.eclectik.com
- Phone: (312) 690-3181
- Email: info@eclectik.com
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