Graphic designer with 5+ years of experience building and applying brand systems across marketing, environmental graphics, and digital assets. I specialize in translating complex ideas into clear, engaging visuals that work across both physical and digital spaces. My work spans in-store graphics, signage, and marketing collateral, along with social, web, and campaign assets. I focus on strong hierarchy, clarity, and consistency so designs not only look good but communicate effectively. I’m highly organized and comfortable managing fast-paced, high-volume work, bringing a steady, detail-oriented approach to every project. I work well independently or with teams and aim to make the design process smooth and efficient from concept through final delivery. Portfolio: nikkiswafford.com

Nikki Safford

Graphic designer with 5+ years of experience building and applying brand systems across marketing, environmental graphics, and digital assets. I specialize in translating complex ideas into clear, engaging visuals that work across both physical and digital spaces. My work spans in-store graphics, signage, and marketing collateral, along with social, web, and campaign assets. I focus on strong hierarchy, clarity, and consistency so designs not only look good but communicate effectively. I’m highly organized and comfortable managing fast-paced, high-volume work, bringing a steady, detail-oriented approach to every project. I work well independently or with teams and aim to make the design process smooth and efficient from concept through final delivery. Portfolio: nikkiswafford.com

Available to hire

Graphic designer with 5+ years of experience building and applying brand systems across marketing, environmental graphics, and digital assets. I specialize in translating complex ideas into clear, engaging visuals that work across both physical and digital spaces.

My work spans in-store graphics, signage, and marketing collateral, along with social, web, and campaign assets. I focus on strong hierarchy, clarity, and consistency so designs not only look good but communicate effectively.
I’m highly organized and comfortable managing fast-paced, high-volume work, bringing a steady, detail-oriented approach to every project. I work well independently or with teams and aim to make the design process smooth and efficient from concept through final delivery.

Portfolio: nikkiswafford.com

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Graphic Designer at FASTSIGNS Asheville
July 1, 2020 - March 1, 2026
Environmental graphics & brand production studio. Managed 30+ concurrent projects weekly; improved proofreading and quality control processes; implemented 5 multi-location rollouts; led environmental design projects exceeding $10K; developed marketing collateral, client presentations, and campaign assets; mentored 4 designers and coordinated with clients, vendors, and installers.
Graphic Designer at Freelance
October 1, 2015 - October 1, 2017
Developed 25+ brand identities and comprehensive visual systems for small businesses and community organizations. Managed projects from concept through delivery, maintaining timelines and achieving on-time completion. Established brand positioning and visual direction through client strategy sessions. Designed brand guidelines, logos, marketing collateral, email graphics, and social media assets. Created concept presentations and campaign materials to support client decision-making.
Kitchen & Bath Designer at Stone Mountain Cabinetry & Millwork
August 1, 2014 - September 1, 2015
Directed 10–20 residential design projects simultaneously, averaging budgets of $35,000. Produced AutoCAD technical drawings and 3D models supporting fabrication and installation. Coordinated contractors, timelines, and approvals to ensure accurate and on-schedule delivery. Translated client ideas into detailed layouts and supporting design documentation that balanced aesthetics, functionality, and budget.
Retail Sales Consultant at Omni Hotels & Resorts
October 1, 2017 - March 1, 2020
Supported visual presentation initiatives in a luxury hospitality environment with high guest volume, ensuring displays aligned with brand standards and creating a welcoming guest experience.
Retail Sales at The Biltmore Company
October 1, 2015 - October 1, 2017
Executed merchandising and visual presentation initiatives in a high-end boutique, ensuring visual presentation standards and a consistent customer experience.

Education

Bachelor of Science, Design at High Point University
August 1, 2008 - May 1, 2012

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Retail, Travel & Hospitality, Education