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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Stephanie Audette Connor, lead designer at awen&co on a mission to help small to medium sized businesses in Worcester County build strong, consistent brand identities.

Whether you are here in search of a logo, print materials, a new website, or all of the above, there’s something you need to know.

When you work with us, you’ll get more than original, inventive design—you’ll get guidance every step of the way. You’ll get a designer who can explain how color choice influences perception. Someone who will remind you that you need to use your brand fonts everywhere—even on your social media graphics. Someone who isn’t afraid to tell you that making your logo bigger isn’t (usually) the answer. You’ll get a branding expert who will make sure you understand how to get the most out of your visual elements.

After earning my BFA in graphic design from MassArt, getting a full-time design job seemed like the right thing to do. I bounced around to a few agencies, but it soon became clear that the fit was all wrong. I wasn’t satisfied coloring inside someone else’s lines. I wanted to define my creative process and see the impact of my work directly. I started designing for a few freelance clients, left my day job, and opened my own studio. If you look through our portfolio, you’ll find our style is clean, colorful, and original. I love the challenge of incorporating all of the traits of a brand into one simple, thoughtful image.

Since forging my own path, I’ve had the chance to build relationships with the masterminds behind incredible local businesses— from salons to fitness studios to restaurants and more. When I see my clients opening up new locations, winning awards, and getting bigger and better by the moment, I can’t help but feel proud. Proud to be doing what I do, and proud to be a part of the energized community in Worcester County. Let’s talk about how original design implemented correctly can help your business grow!

What made you want to start your business?

Transparently – I was fired. I was sick of being so limited in a creative role, and wanted to color outside the lines. I wanted unlimited creativity and to actually make an impact with my design skills locally, to be able to pull the soul out of a brand and create it to visually pull in a companies ideal audience so they could thrive and grow!

What do you love the most about owning a business in Massachusetts?

I’ve grown up here – I love the community and supportive circle that I’ve cultivated in central Massachusetts. There are so many different, diverse businesses to work and collaborate with that there’s always a new idea or challenge to solve.

What are your favorite small businesses to support in Massachusetts?

Too many to name! Mati Yoga, Truth Organic Spa, Story Seekers, Wavelength Coffee Roasters, Feedback Loop Coaching, Adriana Keefe, JTB Wellness, Tamara Hanley Photography, Uncommon Cow, Plant Land, BusyB Social, Fortissimo Digital, Cake Shop Cafe, Honeysuckle…and more!

What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?

Trust your gut! If a client or lead doesn’t sit right with you, there is probably a reason.

If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?

Angel Investor for women owned businesses! I would absolutely love to invest and mentor women owned businesses who are making social and environmental impacts.

When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?

When not working, I enjoy boating, swimming, playing with my son, learning about mediumship, herbs, and all things witchy!

Thank you for sharing more about yourself! Tell us how we can get in touch with you or find you online.

You can learn more about me via my website, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.