Spotlight on the Graphics Department

Meet Marlene and Donna: The Creative Powerhouses Behind Our Co-op’s Visual Magic

Marlene and Donna are the dynamic duo behind every stunning design you see at our Co-op, both in print and on screen. While they can tackle every aspect of graphic design, each focuses on unique elements to create our marketing materials.

Marlene:

 If you’ve marveled at our “out-of-house” print jobs, chances are you’ve admired Marlene’s work. She’s the visionary behind the fabulous produce and bulk screens on the windows facing the parking lot from our Produce department. Her creativity also shines in the strip signage on the wine and beer refrigerators, the seafood freezer, and along the deli-line cases and hot bar. Plus, the hanging aisle signs that guide your shopping? All Marlene’s handiwork.

Marlene’s artistry extends to our Annual Report booklet, both online and in print. A talented illustrator, she’s the creator of our BFC logo, the BFC Cares logo, our charming animated owl from the “Who Knew” series, and the beautiful butterflies adorning our store. She also handles our newspaper and magazine advertisements and graphics/photography for the Department Spotlight articles. If you follow us on YouTube, you’ve seen her editing skills in classes filmed by Lisa and Ruth. Marlene’s impact is everywhere—from posters and signs to the Producer of the Month and articles (web and print), where she brings Ruth’s words to life through thoughtful design and photography.

Donna:

Donna is the architect behind our in-store flyers, posters, and signage, continuously collaborating with the Marketing Manager, Merchandising manager, Department managers, and Buyers. She ensures these materials are ready for print and online viewing and keeps Co+op Deals and Discover Coupons current. Donna also manages many technical aspects of our website, including updating pages, posts, events, and the ever-changing needs of the Board of Directors and shareholders. Donna brings her design skills onboard with the TWO logo design (a shareholder work hours program), Round-Up campaign logo and materials, simplifying the design of the sale signs, and continually creating contemporary campaign materials. Most recently, Donna has put into motion a new sales flyer design you will see in January: a brighter design, more space for products, and the hope customers retain their copy when they leave the store because we will be posting classes, events, sustainability advertising, and more with hopes it will increase customer and shareholder engagement.

Donna simplifies the signage process for various departments with easy-to-use templates. She’s set up self-reliant systems for the Deli and Produce departments and designed BFC Sales templates throughout the store. She worked with Elias to create an attractive bound catering menu to reach potential clients for weddings and events and a leave-behind version to offer catering clients. Donna ensures the store’s large-screen monitors are populated and running according to schedule. She designs and prints many of the stickers you see in the Cheese department weekly. Donna also ensures that the monthly Round Up posters, screens, web elements, and printable assets are ready for the first of each month.

Special Projects and Collaboration:

Both Marlene and Donna contribute to special projects, like designing pamphlets, brochures, and menus. While Lisa schedules and leads classes, demos, and events, Marlene and Donna support her by ensuring our customers and shareholders are in the loop with posters, online event setups, and printed marketing materials, including social media art for Ruth’s posts.

Together, they keep our Co-op looking fresh and professional, handling printed and digital materials as needed. Despite their different focus areas, they can effortlessly step into each other’s roles, showcasing their versatility and dedication.

Efficiency and Teamwork: 

Marlene and Donna thrive on deadlines, working efficiently to keep everything on track. Submit your requests on time to ensure they’re prioritized properly. For quick fixes like replacement signs or monitor issues, let Marlene, Donna, or Amy know, and they’ll handle it promptly.

Have questions about the Producer of the Month or a YouTube video? Marlene’s your go-to. Got a new idea? Share it with Amy, and she’ll coordinate with Marlene and Donna to bring it to life through their project management system. Need a quick sign for a facility issue? Donna is here Monday through Friday for most day-to-day requests.

We have a graphics arsenal at your disposal between them.

With their combined talents and dedication, Marlene and Donna ensure our Co-op’s visual presence is always top-notch. They’re the creative forces that keep our community informed and engaged.

By Donna Amerman