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Islands to Highlands was designed for those yearning for adventure, for those who dream of feeling the cool winds of mountain ranges or the tranquility of remote tropical getaways.

I conceived and brought to life a brand that resonates with the spirit of exploration, offering travel-inspired pieces from adventure-evoking bracelets to apparel infused with the essence of the islands. This brand is the marriage of my passion for the unknown and the elegance of journeying in style. 

Role: Principal Designer 

 

Deliverables: Brand Strategy | Brand Identity | Visual Identity System | Brand System Guidelines | Campaign Development

Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands logo
Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands logo
Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands logo

My Approach to the Brand's Identity:
I envisioned Islands to Highlands with an easy-going, relaxed philosophy. Put aside the stringent norms; this brand's core is about celebrating adventures with authenticity.

Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands icons

Designing the Visual Identity: Drawing inspiration from travel and islands, I crafted visuals that are as bold as the brand's spirit. With a color palette evoking serene beach vibes, I made sure the brand's assets were housed in a web-based system, streamlined for ease of access. Whenever partners or vendors are on board, all they need is a link to remain true to the brand's essence.

 
Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands brand guidelines
Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands business cards

Strategizing for Social Media: Understanding the potent influence of word-of-mouth, I devised a strategy centered around Brand Ambassadors. Through engaging rewards, I encouraged genuine conversations and enhanced interactions with the Islands to Highlands brand.

 
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Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands social media
Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands social media
Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands social media

Driving Brand Awareness: I collaborated with Expedia and Megatouch game systems to roll out an interactive campaign. The primary goal? Boosting brand visibility and web traffic. The result was phenomenal – a 250% increase in site traffic within just a month.

 
expedia campaign mockup.webp

Brand Promise: At the heart of Islands to Highlands is a commitment: to equip those with an adventurous spirit. Whether you're in the wilderness or by the seashore, Islands to Highlands ensures that you're not just equipped, but also exuding style.

Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands social media
Nicholas Nelson Branding Marketing Designer Islands to Highlands apparel

Client Feedback

Over the past few years I have worked with Nicholas off and on and I would like to commend him on his design skills, knowledge, his versatility and his approach to work. His design repertoire is self-evident and he brings that knowledge to the table each and every day. He also has an innate need to improve process and procedure which is very crucial in the “open” design world we work in. I have also utilized Nicholas’ expertise in marketing and branding for recent initiatives which has been very beneficial. I am very impressed with the skill set and he continues to surprise me with what he brings to the table. I would highly recommend him on any endeavor he pursues.

 

Robert Runnells

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