Kim McDonald, BrandJuice Senior Designer, is the spotlight of our October’s employee profile. We sat down for a Q&A to deep dive into her refreshing way of thinking and insightful vision that drives our team every day.
Tell us about where you grew up?
I was born and raised in Lawrence, Kansas. Home of the Jayhawks.
What brand is your personality most aligned with?
I like to think I’m aligned with Nike. Always seeking inspiration, ever evolving and multifaceted. Most days more of a mall-walker, tracksuit-wearing kind of Nike, but Lebron James on a good day.
What led you to choosing this profession?
A passion for story telling through fine art (oil painting) was my vehicle to discovering design. I found a love for uncovering untold brand stories and using design as my visual communication medium.
Who inspires you? Who do you aspire to be like?
An accumulation of people inspire me. Risk takers, big thinkers, and optimists.
What’s your most irrational fear?
Even though I think it’s a rational fear–squirrels. I’m afraid they are going to use my arms as tree branches. And rubber bands.
If you could keep only 5 possessions, what would they be?
- Pickles – my stuffed animal dog. He’s been with me since birth. Can’t leave him behind now.
- Snapchat
- iPhone – essential for snapchat
- Alexa, my echo. She’s got jokes, music, news… what a pal.
- And…. of course, my selfie stick
What are you drinking come five o’clock?
Tricky… glass of red wine, preferably a cab. Or an IPA, depending on the mood.
Best restaurant in Denver?
My first time visiting my sister in Denver, we strolled down Larimer and had dinner at Osteria Marco. Between the hanging street lights, the delicious food, and good company, I fell in love with Denver. Therefore, Osteria Marco is always at the top of my list.
What’s the best book you’ve read so far this year?
This year: Nightingale by Kristin Hannah – it’s a must read!
Ever: Any and all Harry Potter books – let the nerd shine bright.
When you’re in need of creative inspiration, where do you go? What do you do?
Break routine. Go outside, see a talk, take a trip. Expose myself to anything that is not in my normal daily intake.
What was the last picture you took with your phone?
Selfie, with my mom, on a hike.
If you could give your younger self any advice, what would it be?
Don’t be in such a hurry. Travel. Take advantage of gathering as many life experiences as possible before life’s responsibilities kick in.
And college Kim, lay off the late night qdoba.
What’s the best part about working at BrandJuice?
The learning environment. We are a mixing pot experiences & strengths.
Follow along on our social media over the coming weeks to find out more about what Kim’s life is like when she’s not cultivating creative genius at BrandJuice.