Bringing a Conference to Life:
My Design Journey

Every great event starts with a vision. For the Michigan Association of Osteopathic Family Physicians 2023 Winter Family Medicine Update, my role was to take that vision and turn it into something tangible—something that would not only inform but inspire.

Designed in Illustrator | InDesign | Canva

It All Begins with a Logo

Before a single attendee registers or a single email is sent, the event needs a brand. And that brand starts with a logo.

I always begin with research, exploring logos with similar themes or styles to spark ideas. As I immerse myself in colors, typography, and imagery, I start sketching—experimenting with different shapes, layouts, and concepts. It’s a process of refining, discarding, and improving until I land on something that feels just right.

Once I have a few solid concepts, I bring them into Illustrator, where the sketches transform into polished designs. Seeing those ideas come to life on the screen is always a thrilling moment. After refining, I present the best options to the client, ensuring they align with the event’s identity and goals.

Building a Brand Beyond the Logo

With the logo chosen, the real fun begins. A brand is more than just a single design—it’s an entire visual experience.

I create assets that will carry the event’s look and feel across multiple platforms:
🖥 Webpages – The digital hub where attendees register, browse the agenda, and book their stay. Designing the event website is my favorite part because it’s where everything comes together—information, branding, and engagement all in one place.
📣 Marketing Materials – Social media graphics, speaker highlights, countdowns, and sponsorship promotions ensure that excitement builds well before the event begins.

There’s nothing quite like watching a brand unfold—taking a simple idea and turning it into something that moves people to action.

Bringing It to Life: Onsite Experience

Marketing sets the stage, but onsite materials make the event feel real. When attendees arrive, they’re greeted by elements that reinforce the event’s identity—from name badges to signage to printed programs.

Some of my favorite pieces to design for the Winter Family Medicine Update included:
📖 Onsite Programs – The event guide, ready for print two weeks in advance. View the full onsite program
📍 Signs & Banners – Welcoming attendees, directing traffic, and setting the tone.
🎟 Drink Tickets & Bingo Cards – Small but impactful details that enhance the experience.
🎨 Coloring Pages – A fun and unexpected touch!

Seeing these pieces in action—watching attendees flip through a program I designed or navigate the space using signage I created—is always a rewarding moment.

A Lasting Impression

Design isn’t just about making things look good; it’s about creating experiences. The best feedback? When people not only notice the design but feel something because of it.

💬 “This has been some of the best artwork we have seen at our conferences in a long time! Glad to have a designer that brings the fun back into our events.” — MAOFP Member

That’s what makes it all worth it.