Balsam Hill Studio Maui Grand Opening (2024)
Retail Experience Design, Environmental Graphics & Packaging System
For the grand opening of Balsam Hill Studio's flagship ornament boutique in Maui, Hawaii, we partnered with an external design agency that developed the initial creative direction and retail concept for the store environment. Building upon their foundational vision, I worked with our in-house team which included project managers, merchandising, and creative team to collaborate on the adaptation, refinement, and production of a comprehensive visual experience that translated the concept into a fully realized retail destination.
My role focused on extending the established brand aesthetic across all customer-facing touchpoints, ensuring consistency between the physical environment, event communications, and product presentation. This included the design, development, and production of environmental graphics, in-store signage, promotional materials, grand opening collateral, and a premium packaging system that supported the launch of the new retail location.
I worked closely with internal stakeholders, international vendors, and production partners. Signage hierarchy, product storytelling, and customer flow were carefully considered to create an intuitive and engaging shopping experience while maintaining visual consistency throughout the space.
A key component of the project was the creation of a custom packaging program inspired by Maui's island culture and the store's "Aloha" theme. Luxury gift boxes, ornament presentation packaging, and event-specific materials were designed to complement the retail environment and extend the customer experience beyond the point of purchase. The packaging system balanced functionality and premium aesthetics while reinforcing the emotional and collectible nature of the products
Outcome
The project successfully transformed the agency's initial retail concept into a cohesive, customer-centered brand experience that celebrated both the Balsam Hill brand and the spirit of Maui. Through thoughtful execution across environmental graphics, signage, and packaging, the grand opening delivered a premium retail experience that elevated product presentation, strengthened brand storytelling, and created memorable interactions throughout the customer journey.
Responsibilities
Art Direction & Design Implementation
Brand Experience
Retail Signage System Development
Product Packaging Design
Grand Opening Event Collateral
Visual Merchandising Support
Print Production Management
Vendor Coordination & Quality Assurance
Cross-Functional Collaboration with External Design Agency
Deliverables
In-Store Signage Program
Grand Opening Promotional Materials
Retail Display Graphics
Wayfinding & Informational Signage
Product Packaging System
Luxury Gift Box Design
Ornament Presentation Packaging
Event Marketing Collateral
Production Artwork & Vendor Specifications
