In a recent interview with Lee Kantor, graphic designer Stacey Leong shared her inspiring journey and the unique aspects of her Honolulu-based design firm. Specializing in branding and graphic design, Stacey’s firm stands out for its authentic representation of native Hawaiian culture.
Stacey Leong’s Journey
Stacey has always been passionate about design. She holds a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts with a concentration in Graphic Design from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. With a career dedicated to creating meaningful and culturally resonant designs, Stacey has built a firm that not only serves clients but also celebrates Hawaiian heritage.
Designing for the Hawaiian Community
While Stacey’s firm can design for anyone, their primary focus is on serving the Hawaiian community. They excel in graphically expressing native Hawaiian culture, integrating traditional values with modern design sensibilities. Stacey explains that their work draws heavily on the natural beauty and deep cultural significance of the Hawaiian Islands.
What Makes Hawaiian Design Unique
Native Hawaiian design is deeply rooted in the land (aina) and the appreciation for the earth (honua). Stacey describes how their designs incorporate elements from their surroundings, such as the ocean, flowers, and the local people. These designs aim to visually convey the love (aloha) and respect Hawaiians have for their land and culture.
A Wide Range of Clients
Stacey’s firm works with a diverse clientele, including native Hawaiian organizations, nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies, and businesses in finance and real estate. Their ability to authentically represent Hawaiian culture makes them a sought-after partner for many organizations.
The Importance of Professional Design
Stacey emphasizes the importance of valuing professional graphic design. While many tools and resources are available today, she believes that the expertise and experience of trained designers are irreplaceable. Partnering with a design firm that understands and resonates with a company’s values is crucial for effective branding and growth.
Strategic Problem Solvers
Graphic design is more than just creating aesthetically pleasing visuals. Stacey’s firm approaches design strategically, considering demographics, statistics, and research to build compelling stories for their clients. They see themselves as problem solvers, helping clients reach their target audiences effectively.
Uncovering Unique Stories
When working with clients, Stacey’s team focuses on identifying what makes them unique. They aim to tell their clients’ stories in a way that engages and connects with people, highlighting their distinct qualities and values.
One of Stacey’s long-term clients has been with her firm for 20 years. This loyalty speaks volumes about the quality and impact of their work. Clients are proud to share the designs created by Stacey’s team, which authentically represent their culture and resonate with their audience.
Challenges and Rewards of Being a Woman Business Owner
Stacey acknowledges the challenges of being a woman business owner, particularly in Hawaii. She values being part of organizations that support women’s excellence in business. Her firm, which consists entirely of women, thrives on a collaborative and synergistic work environment.
Stacey highlights the importance of self-care for business owners. As a single mother who also cares for her elderly mother, she understands the need to prioritize personal well-being. Taking time for oneself, even if it’s just a short walk or a moment of meditation, is essential for maintaining balance.
Current Projects
Stacey’s firm is currently working on a branding campaign for Kamaka Ukulele, a renowned Hawaiian company with over 100 years of history. Their goal is to elevate the brand’s story in a tasteful and classy manner, reflecting the company’s humble and revered status.
Connecting with Stacey Leong
To learn more about Stacey Leong and her design firm, visit staceyleong.com. You can also find them on Facebook and Instagram. To listen to her full journey, click this link: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/women-in-motion/brand-consulting/
About Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West (WBEC-West)
WBEC-West is a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a coalition of corporations, WBEs, and regionally focused women’s business organizations. As an affiliate organization, WBEC-West implements the certification standards of WBENC throughout Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam. WBENC is the largest certifier of women’s business enterprises in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs. WBENC certification is nationally recognized and accepted by more than 10,000 major corporations. We also support corporations in their efforts to include WBENC Certified WBEs in their supply chain.
