Hi! I’m Emily
I’m a Virginia Beach-based Graphic Designer with a BFA in Graphic and Animation Design from Longwood University. After graduating in 2021, I started my design career and eventually found my way to Buzz Franchise Brands in August 2022. Since then, I’ve had the chance to work across four distinct franchise brands — British Swim School, Home Clean Heroes, Pool Scouts, and Wonderly Lights. I’m currently deep in the rebrand of British Swim School, a powerhouse brand on track to make $100 million across 450 locations in the United States and Canada. I’ve had the amazing opportunity to build the new visual design on the initial recommendations and suggestions of HotDish to create something new, exciting, and personality-packed.
Over the past few years, I’ve built a strong foundation in branding, illustration, and fast-turnaround design. From partnerships with big names like Peppa Pig to adaptive communication tools, custom illustrations, social campaigns, and print collateral — I like to say, “You name it, we made it.” I thrive in fast-paced environments where every day brings a new visual puzzle to solve. One standout moment in my journey was reimagining the British Swim School trifold brochure — a full-circle project that showed me just how far I’d come in design confidence and skill.
I’m known for learning brand standards quickly, adapting my style when needed, and weaving a little whimsy into clean, functional design. Whether I’m illustrating from scratch or building out a system of branded graphics, I focus on making work that’s eye-catching without being cluttered.
Where I Started
I grew up in Northern Virginia, obsessed with movies, games, and the behind-the-scenes magic that brings worlds to life. That early love of storytelling through visuals drew me to design, and I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since. Though I focused on animation in school, I found my true stride in graphic design — where every day is a chance to create something new and meaningful.
A Bit More About Me
Outside of work, I’m usually lifting weights, out on a trail, or nose-deep in a fantasy or sci-fi novel. Recent favorites include Red Rising, This Is How You Lose the Time War, and The Shepherd King duology. I’m also a part of a D&D group, where my love of detail and character design gets to run wild.
Currently open to freelance opportunities — whether you need illustrations, brand collateral, or a fresh visual approach to your next project.
