Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Fassett.
Jessica, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I grew up in Idaho. I started snowboarding at age eight and I always admired the beautiful and unique art on snowboard graphics. When I was a kid, I would print photos and use scrapbook papers to piece together collage art that I dreamed of seeing on a snowboard. I quickly discovered that graphic artists were responsible for those designs and I decided that’s what I wanted to do.
I graduated from Utah State University with a BFA in Graphic Design. After graduation, I worked in advertising and then had the pleasure of fulfilling a dream to design snowboards and flowboards. During college, I worked at an indoor surfing facility called FlowRider. I picked up the sport quickly and started competing in local contests and then eventually around the world. It had always been a dream of mine to move to San Diego and ride for the team at WaveHouse. When I was 24, I packed up my belongings with $400 to my name and hit the road. I spent the summer in San Diego and decided I could get used to the warm weather. I was fortunate enough to get a job in the marketing and art department at Wave House. After a change of ownership, I continued my career working for Wave House’s management company, Eat.Drink.Sleep.
I owe a lot of the advancements in my career to Eat.Drink.Sleep. The guidance and mentorship I’ve received there have been extremely invaluable. Design is at the root of everything they do and I’m thankful to work for a company that holds it in such high regard.
I’m also a freelance designer. It started with word of mouth. One friend needed a logo and they told another friend and so on. I try my very best to be personable and flexible with each client because I know that their recommendation could be my next project. I think the root of any successful business is one that can forge long term partnerships. Lucky for me a lot of my professional clients have turned into friends.
It’s gratifying and exciting to work with small businesses that are hard working, passionate and good at what they do. If this sounds like you, let’s talk about your project over coffee (preferably iced) or California burritos (with guac).
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It’s been a little bumpy with some blind spots but I’m enjoying the view. I’ve made some mistakes along the way, but I’ve tried to grow with each one. I’m a stronger person and a better designer because of them. Some words of advice:
Never stop learning. There is always room for professional growth. I try to continue learning even if it’s something as simple as an online photoshop tutorial, keyboard shortcuts for efficiency or tools for time management. Set aside time in advance to learn new skills and keep yourself sharp.
Fake it till you make it. Say yes to new projects you’re interested in and then figure out how you’re going to tackle it after. Do your best, be resourceful and you’d be surprised at the results.
Work for free. Sometimes you gotta do it to get your foot in the door. Some of my favorite freelance projects I worked on were discounted or pro bono. They eventually led to long term partnerships.
Never hope for it more than you work for it. You gotta practice and put in the hard work. The only way you improve at a skill is to practice. If you’re just starting out, I would say take on as many projects as you can until you build a portfolio you can be proud of. I’ve spent my fair share of late nights squinting at my computer screen instead of going to happy hours.
Believe in your work or no one else will. Half of the job is how you sell yourself and present your work. Be enthusiastic, practice what you’re going to say and it never hurts to smile.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I’m a graphic designer. My focus has been in the hospitality industry and action sports. I specialize in branding, print collateral, environmental graphics and photo styling for content creation.
I enjoy collaborating with other young local artists and photographers. I’ve worked with some really talented graphic painters and interior designers to build unique spaces that tell stories I’m proud of.
I sweat the small stuff. I believe it’s the little details that leave a lasting impression on a guest or viewer. You can find me at the beach, pushing pixels or posing pancakes for photoshoots.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
That’s a tough one because I’ve had so many wonderful mentors both male and female in my personal and professional life.
I’m very lucky to have been raised and supported by some strong women who I admire and look up to. My mom is resilient, determined and kind. Last year she left a high paying job and went back to school to pursue a career she is passionate about. She has a big heart and would give the shirt off her back to help someone in need. She has taught me to follow my dreams and has always supported me. I’m also very thankful for my step-mom who has encouraged me, loved me unconditionally and pushed me to be the best I could be. She is a strong female leader in a profession that is male-dominated. She has always stood her ground and gone after what she wanted.
In my professional life, I work on a team with some super talented women who are incredibly good at what they do. They inspired me to be a better designer, leader, co-worker, and friend.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.behance.net/jessicafassett
- Phone: (619) 717-6759
- Email: jess@sparechangedesign.co
Image Credit:
Haley Hill Photography, Allie Gray Photo
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
