Available to hire
I’m Samantha Walton, a publication designer, writer, and artist based in Halifax. With 6+ years of experience creating editorial layouts and original artwork, I translate artistic concepts into magazine spreads, book interiors, typography systems, covers, and visual identities. I also write features, interviews, headlines, and digital content—bringing a clear voice and strong visual hierarchy to every project.
Experience Level
Expert
Expert
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Expert
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Expert
Expert
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Expert
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Expert
Intermediate
Language
English
Fluent
French
Advanced
Work Experience
Founder & Publication Designer at VAEL Magazine
January 1, 2026 - PresentIndependently developed and produced the Autumn 2026 issue (48 pages) from editorial concept to print-ready layouts and digital publication. Wrote all editorial content, developed the magazine’s visual identity, and designed the cover, typography, and interior spreads. Designed the magazine’s website and promotional materials to maintain consistent visual direction across print and digital platforms.
Creative Design Team Leader at AD Customs International
November 1, 2024 - PresentLead a creative design team, developing custom clothing designs and logos for a diverse client base; collaborate closely with the business owner to align design vision and brand direction; oversee project workflow, ensuring on-time delivery and high-quality outputs.
Creative Design Team Leader at Graves Development International
November 1, 2024 - PresentLead creative direction for branding and FiveM clothing design projects. Collaborate with clients to deliver 3D apparel and digital assets aligned with brand goals. Ensure visual cohesion across project lifecycles from concept to delivery.
Creative Team Lead — Editorial & Design (Remote) at AD Customs
January 1, 2024 - PresentCoordinated a two-person creative team, contributing to visual concepts and design direction. Provided design feedback, maintained visual consistency, and coordinated revisions and production from initial concept through final delivery.
Creative Team Leader at AD Customs
January 1, 2024 - PresentLed design direction for custom projects while maintaining brand consistency across deliverables. Managed workflow and production quality.
Creative Design Team Leader at ADCUSTOMS
January 1, 2024 - PresentManage client design projects ensuring visual quality and brand consistency. Coordinate team workflow and maintain organized project documentation.
Creative Design Team Leader at A Customs
January 1, 2024 - PresentManage client design projects ensuring visual quality and brand consistency. Coordinate team workflow and maintain organized project documentation.
FiveM Clothing Developer at GN Customs
January 1, 2023 - PresentCreate detailed, optimized clothing designs for FiveM RP servers. Coordinate with developers to ensure seamless integration of clothing assets. Deliver high-quality textured models, consistent with server themes and brand identity.
Social Media Manager at Canadian Military Family Magazine
September 1, 2020 - PresentDevelop and execute content strategies across multiple social media platforms. Monitor engagement and generate performance analytics reports. Strengthen online presence through community management and visual storytelling.
Graphic / Layout Designer at Canadian Military Family Magazine
September 1, 2020 - PresentDesign digital and print layouts for articles, advertisements, and promotional materials. Produce social media visuals and infographics for national outreach. Work closely with editorial staff to maintain publication standards.
Independent Editorial Writer & Designer at VAEL Design Studio
January 1, 2020 - PresentDeveloped independent publication, branding, and digital design projects combining written content with layouts and visual identity. Managed content development, revisions, and final presentation; designed webpages without coding using WordPress, Wix, and Canva; developed blog posts, articles, and creative concepts.
Editorial Writer & Publication Designer (Remote) at Canadian Military Family Magazine
January 1, 2020 - January 1, 2026Contributed editorial writing and publication layouts to 20 physically printed and digitally published magazine issues. Researched and wrote feature articles, supported interviews, and contributed to overall publication development and final production by combining typography, imagery, and original editorial content.
Print Layout & Digital Designer at Canadian Military Family Magazine
January 1, 2020 - PresentDesigned full magazine layouts and multi-page spreads. Created social media content and graphics. Maintained consistent visual identity across print and digital platforms.
Creative Director & Lead Designer at VALE Design Studio
January 1, 2020 - PresentDeveloped full brand identity systems and visual languages. Designed logos, layouts, and cohesive brand guidelines. Delivered polished digital and print assets.
Communications & Administrative Support at Canadian Military Family Magazine
January 1, 2020 - January 1, 2026Produced and coordinated digital and print materials while maintaining accuracy and timelines.
Founder & Creative Director at VAEL Design Studio
January 1, 2020 - PresentLead brand identity and visual design projects from concept through final delivery. Collaborate with clients to translate ideas into cohesive visual systems. Oversee project timelines, deliverables, and creative workflow.
Architectural Designer at Freelance
January 1, 2020 - PresentDevelop residential and small commercial building concepts. Produce 2D/3D models and layout plans. Collaborate with clients to refine functional designs.
Founder at VAEL Wellness
January 1, 2018 - PresentBuilt brand identity and visual communication systems. Designed marketing materials and digital assets.
Senior Deck Crewman at Royal Canadian Navy (Reg Force)
April 1, 2002 - April 1, 2012Senior crewman responsible for the ship's hull components, rigging, anchors, cables, sails, deck maintenance and small boat operation.
Senior Deck Crewman at Royal Canadian Navy
April 1, 2002 - April 1, 2012Led operational maintenance of ship components, deck equipment, and navigation systems. Supervised deck crews and enforced safety protocols during missions. Delivered training on rigging and small boat operations.
Military Role (Oversees accountability for mission-critical equipment and documentation) at Royal Canadian Navy (Primary Reserve) – Department of National Defence
January 1, 2002 - January 1, 2012Oversaw accountability for mission-critical equipment and operational documentation. Operated with strict procedures, mentored junior personnel, and supported operational readiness.
Equipment & Documentation Officer at Royal Canadian Navy – Department of National Defence
December 31, 2001 - December 31, 2011Oversaw accountability for mission-critical equipment and operational documentation. Operated with strict procedures, mentored junior personnel, and supported operational readiness.
Education
Associate Degree in Graphic Design at Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology
January 1, 2013 - May 1, 2016Architectural Technology (College Diploma) at Algonquin College, Ottawa, Ontario
September 1, 2017 - May 1, 2020Graphic Design (Associate Degree) at Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
January 1, 2013 - May 1, 2016Graphic Design at Aiglant College
January 11, 2030 - August 6, 2026Business Administration at St. Clair College
January 11, 2030 - August 6, 2026Computer Graphics Artist Diploma at ICS Canada
January 11, 2030 - October 9, 2026Personal Support Worker Certificate at Algonquin College
January 11, 2030 - October 9, 2026Computer Graphics Artist Diploma at ICS Canada
January 11, 2030 - October 10, 2026Personal Support Worker Certificate at Algonquin College
January 11, 2030 - October 10, 2026Qualifications
Naval Leadership & Operational Training
January 11, 2030 - October 10, 2026Industry Experience
Media & Entertainment, Gaming, Professional Services, Real Estate & Construction, Government, Consumer Goods, Education, Retail, Software & Internet, Manufacturing, Non-Profit Organization
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