a decade in design: nurturing creativity and friendship with karla garcia 

written by Shelby Mymko [February 2024]

#logodesign #branddesign #smallbusiness #contentcreation #podcast #businessconsultation

Introduction

Sometimes, the most meaningful collaborations stem from the roots of enduring friendships. In 2010, during our shared experience at Assiniboine Community College, I crossed paths with Karla Garcia, and little did we know that a friendship forged in those college years would blossom into a decade-long creative journey. Fast Forward to 2019, the rekindling of our friendship ignited a collaborative spark that would see us working together on a multitude of projects, shaping Karla’s diverse ventures and contributing to the growth of her brand.

The Genesis of The Woo Woo Experience

Our creative partnership officially kicked off with Karla’s podcast, “The Woo Woo Experience,” in 2019. What began as a branding and production collaboration soon evolved into a dynamic exploration of design and storytelling.

As my design skills continued to flourish, so did the scope of our collaboration. The initial project of branding and production “The Woo Woo Experience ” expanded into the development of a dedicated website, becoming a central hub for Karla’s expanding ventures. The synergy between Karla’s evolving brand and my design capabilities created a harmonious blend of creativity and functionality.

Original Logo Designed in 2019
Rebrand Logo 2021

From Podcast to Multifaceted Opportunities

The success of The Woo Woo Experience paved the way for a broader spectrum of opportunities within Karla’s brand. The podcast became a launchpad for ventures into breathwork, crystals, and retreats. With each new dimension added to the brand, our collaborative efforts extended beyond the digital realm, influencing visual aesthetics, and brand narratives.

Joined as a guest on the podcast
Community Building with The Woo Woo Experience

Soul Revival: Crafting the Logo for Spiritual Retreats

Our creative journey extended into the development of a logo and a few assets for Karla’s spiritual retreat, aptly named “Soul Revival.” THe logo became a visual representation of the transformative experiences offered at these retreats, capturing the essence of spiritual growth and self-discovery.

Soul Revival Logo Design
Karla and I enjoying the retreat

The Self Love is the Best Love Deck of Cards

In our pursuit of creative expression, Karla and I collaborated on a unique project – an intricately designed self-love deck of cards. While Karla produced the written words, I took charge of designing the individual cards as well as the full-colour design on the back. The result was a tangible manifestation of self-love, beautifully packaged in a deck that aimed to inspire and empower.

Karla holding a deck of our cards
Custom Card Deck

Susie Sunshine: A Ray of Crystal Brilliance

Our collaborative efforts extended to family ties as well, where I played a pivotal role in branding Karla’s mom’s crystal jewelry company, Susie Sunshine. Drawing inspiration from an old sketch featuring a sun, and a special nickname, we crafted a brand that encapsulates the essence of crystal brilliance and warmth, reflecting the unique identity of Susie Sunshine.

Ancestral Body & Sol: Rooted in Guatemalan Ancestry

Central to our collaborative efforts was the establishment of Ancestral Body & Sol, Karla’s organic skincare line. Rooted in her Guatemalan ancestry, this venture became a celebration of cultural heritage and a reflection of the rich traditions passed down through generations. The brand not only offers organic skincare products but also serves as a bridge connecting past and present, infusing each creation with the essence of ancestral wisdom.

Conclusion

A decade in design, friendship, and creativity – the collaborative journey with Karla Garcia has been a testament to the power of shared visions and the boundless possibilities that emerge when talents align. From the inception of “The Woo Woo Experience” to the diverse opportunities that followed, our collaboration has not only shaped Karla’s brand but has also been a source of inspiration and growth for both of us. As we continue to embark on new projects and ventures, the enduring friendship and creative synergy between us remain at the heart of this transformative journey.

Follow Karla on Social Media
@ancestralbodyandsol
@sagihour

“Shelby’s talent is simply remarkable; it’s like everything she touches turns to gold. She has this incredible knack for bringing ideas to life in the most beautiful and captivating ways. What’s truly special about Shelby is how genuine and down-to-earth she remains, despite her exceptional talent and whether she’s working on a project for a client or pursuing her own creative endeavors

I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Shelby’s creative genius firsthand, and I’m continually amazed by her ability to turn even the simplest concepts into something truly extraordinary. Her work has this magical quality that draws you in and leaves you in awe of her talent. In a world where it’s easy to get caught up in superficialities, Shelby’s authenticity shines through in her art. She’s not just creating for the sake of it; she’s pouring her passion and creativity into every project, and it shows. Shelby isn’t just a talented artist; she’s a friend whose creativity knows no bounds. With her genuine spirit and unwavering dedication, she’s an inspiration to everyone lucky enough to know her.

Working with Shelby is an absolute joy, and trust me, you won’t regret it. She pours her heart and soul into every project, and her passion for what she does shines through in every detail. When you collaborate with Shelby, you’re not just hiring a talented artist; you’re gaining a true friend and partner who will stop at nothing to bring your vision to life. Her creativity knows no bounds, and her dedication to excellence is truly inspiring. With Shelby by your side, you can rest assured that your project is in the best possible hands. So go ahead, take the leap and work with Shelby – I promise you’ll be glad you did!”

– Karla Garcia, Ancestral Body and Sol