I've been a freelance graphic designer as long as I can remember really. Okay, thats not entirely true, I didn't exactly start when I was five years old. But since graduating university back in 2007, I fell straight into design. I have always loved doodling and sketching while at school (often more than listening to the teacher). But since I got my very first computer (way back when), my doodles and sketches began to evolve into more serious and polished projects on-line.
After my studies, I applied for ten plus jobs with graphic design agencies, but kept hearing the same old story. "Unfortunately we are looking for someone with a little more work experience". Experience I couldn't gain without somebody offering me a job. It was a very frustrating catch 22 situation.
A month or two went by, when I received a phone call from one of the companies I had applied for after graduating. They were interested in offering me a sales position at the company. It turned out to be a fantastic foot in the door for me. Within 6 months, after a major change in the company, I was designing for my own clients and within 12 months I was a full time branding illustrator.
Two years later and hungry for more opportunities, I made the move from Oxford (where I had studied at University) to London. I quickly found my feet, and worked for one of the most popular and trendy design houses in the UK. Within the three years of working for this unbeliavable company, I had decided I was keen to pursue my own goals and ambitions. I wanted to set up my own company. In early 2014 Maroon Baboon was born.
To this day I still have no real reason or story behind the name Maroon Baboon. My goal, when going it alone, was to create a company that stood out. One that was memorable yet different to anything else on the market at that time. A good friend of mine, said you should name it after something personal. For example what is your favourite colour? I said Maroon. He said, and what rhymes with Maroon? To which another friend shouted out BABOON. Nearly everyone in the room burst out in fits of laughter, and the name stuck.
Ten months after launching, I now employ two sidekicks who work on branding with me. Who knows what 2015 will bring.
However we may grow, our goals will never change. We always want to provide people with a finished product they love, but at a price they can afford. All the while offering a high quality level of service and response.
Thanks for reading, I really hope to hear from you soon.