In a world dominated by digital screens, it’s easy to think print design has taken a backseat in marketing.
But for me, print design has always been front and center. My journey in design started back in 2005, and I can confidently say that print is far from obsolete. In fact, it’s still one of the most powerful ways to create cohesive, memorable brand experiences.
My Journey in Print Design
Over 20 years ago, I kicked off my career as a print ad designer at a newspaper. That job taught me the fundamentals: layout, typography, and the magic of tangible print materials. But I didn’t stop there. While working at the paper, I dove into freelance projects, creating brands and print collateral for businesses of all shapes and sizes. That freedom let me explore and create the kind of work I really wanted to see—the kind I wasn’t doing during the day.
In 2010, I co-founded 307 Magazine, a Wyoming-based publication. This passion project was the ultimate showcase of everything I’d learned about print—from design to production. Unlike the newspaper world, where speed and efficiency ruled, 307 Magazine let me focus on better paper, advanced printing techniques, and the art of layout and production. It was here that I really fell in love with the craftsmanship of print. That experience not only honed my skills but helped me make a name for myself locally for design.
Why Print Design Still Matters
Print’s role in marketing hasn’t disappeared; it’s evolved. While digital platforms are immediate and far-reaching, print offers something different—a tangible, impactful way to connect with people. Here’s why I believe print is still essential:
- Creating a Cohesive Brand Identity
There’s nothing like the feel of a well-designed business card or the weight of a high-quality brochure. Print materials play a huge role in reinforcing a brand’s identity. They’re tactile and memorable in ways digital often can’t match. When print and digital share a unified design aesthetic, they amplify a brand’s message across all touchpoints. - The Role of Print Collateral in the Digital Age
Print isn’t competing with digital; it’s complementing it. A beautifully printed catalog or a thoughtful direct mail piece offers a break from screens. Print forces you to slow down and give it your attention—something digital often struggles to do. And with features like QR codes or augmented reality, print can seamlessly connect to digital experiences. - Enhancing Customer Experience
Print adds a personal, human touch. Think about opening a meticulously designed product package or receiving a handwritten thank-you card from a brand. These moments create emotional connections that digital marketing alone can’t replicate.
Print Design as the Foundation for Great Digital Work
I’ve worked extensively in both print and digital design, and I’ve found that having a print background is a huge advantage. Print demands precision—understanding hierarchy, color theory, and composition—skills that translate directly into digital work. At The BARK Firm, we use these principles to create digital designs that aren’t just functional but visually stunning and engaging.
At The BARK Firm, we use print to tell stories and create multi-dimensional brand experiences. From striking billboards to custom event materials, print continues to prove its worth as a powerful marketing tool.
In today’s digital-first world, print isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a necessity.
When done thoughtfully, print doesn’t just complement digital efforts; it elevates them. It leaves a lasting impression that audiences won’t forget.
If you’re ready to explore how print can take your brand to the next level, let’s talk. At The BARK Firm, we’re passionate about blending the best of both worlds—print and digital—to create unforgettable experiences.
