Hello! I’m Nicole, a designer based in Petaluma, California.

I’m a visual design lead that specializes in branding, design research, & human-centered design.

With 18 years of experience, I bring a unique blend of expertise from both branding studios and human-centered design in the nonprofit sector, including eight years at IDEO.org.

I've created culturally sensitive, visually compelling brands for niche communities and global audiences alike, and led prototype-driven design research across the U.S., Africa, and India to gather insights and test new ideas. I have content expertise in health services, financial services, and early childhood care services.

My strengths are storytelling and visualizing to make content easy to understand and fun to read, and I love working with small businesses to bring their vision to life.

To give some more context about myself as a human— I’m a plant nerd, I love the quiet joy of watching a leaf unfurl. I’m an aspirational surfer, 2 years in and getting washing machined on the regular. I’m a consumer of fantasy in all its forms, relaxing for me is an epic daydream underneath my cozy blanket. And more than anything I am the proud mama of Zaki (5) and Hena (3) who make everyday a wild ride.

Let’s work together!

SERVICES OFFERED:

• branding (logo design, tagline, brand strategy)

• design research & prototyping

• web design

• illustration

• social media content & template design

• pitch decks

• messaging campaigns

• signage

“Beauty matters. It just matters. It is amazing to give the gift of beauty.” 

— Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Program Officer / former client

“Nicole's thoughtful approach and graphic design skills brought our online presence to life! It is an absolute pleasure working with her.”

— Sarah Ebner / Principal, See Arch