UConn 2023 Halloweek Brand Design

Project Objectives: 

 The primary objective of this project was to develop a customized version of the UConn Rec official logo specifically tailored for the 2023 Halloweek Program. This logo was intended to seamlessly blend the official brand identity with a captivating and authentic Halloween aesthetic. Additionally, a crucial aspect of the project was to create an extensive collection of brand assets that could be efficiently utilized in the production of various media graphics. 

• Develop a variation of the UConn Rec official logo for 2023 Halloweek Program
• Incorporate a realistic Halloween "feel"
• Create a brand collection of assets to be used to make media graphics 

Approach and Tools:

 For the effective realization of the Halloween concept, this project leveraged Adobe Illustrator's robust suite of tools and features. Adobe Illustrator was selected as the primary design platform, enabling precise control over vector graphic elements and ensuring the creative vision was brought to life. 

Design Elements:

1. Research and Inspiration:  Collaboration was a cornerstone of this endeavor, with close involvement from the client to establish an inspiration board. This board served as a visual compass to ensure that the logo adhered to specific brand guidelines and was in alignment with the creative direction set forth by the UConn Rec team. 
2. Vector Graphic Design:  The initial logo was meticulously crafted to be adaptable across a multitude of formats and design applications. To cater to the diverse needs of the client, variations of the logo were developed, including stacked and unstacked versions, along with individual assets extracted from the logo. This comprehensive approach allowed the client the flexibility to implement the logo seamlessly in various design contexts. 
3. Color Pallet Selection:  A pivotal goal was to select an appropriate color palette that not only resonated with the Halloween theme but also adhered to high-contrast principles for enhanced accessibility. The color scheme embraced rich, darker hues such as deep purples and blacks, accentuated by vibrant and attention-grabbing shades of yellow, orange, and green, resulting in a visually striking design. 
4. Iterative Process:  The project adopted an iterative approach to the logo design process. Multiple design drafts were shared with the client, and consistent communication was maintained throughout the project lifecycle. This open dialogue allowed for the assimilation of client feedback and the implementation of necessary adjustments. Following a series of discussions, the decision was made to intertwine elements within the letters of the logo, introducing a captivating 3D effect that added depth and dynamism to the design. 
5. Application Within Graphics:  To facilitate the broad dissemination of the logo, a range of digital graphics was meticulously crafted. These included tailored graphics for Instagram posts, Instagram Stories, web banners, TV banners, and app banners. The design process incorporated 'icons' that were expertly created by another team member. These icons were seamlessly integrated into the overall design, establishing a cohesive visual identity across all media formats and platforms. The resulting graphics were not only aesthetically pleasing but also harmoniously incorporated essential brand elements. 

Final Outcome:

The final outcome of this project was a highly successful and comprehensive brand kit for the 2023 UConn Recreation Halloweek. The client received a diverse range of graphics and digital assets meticulously designed for advertising purposes to effectively promote the program. This brand kit embodied a seamlessly blended, authentic design that exhibited both realism and harmony. Its cohesive presence extended across a multitude of platforms and assets, ensuring a consistent and engaging brand identity for the Halloweek program.