Meet the Member: Middle Child Design Studio

Interviewee:

Kirsten Pereira (She/Her)

In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative.

Middle Child Design Studio is a full-service graphic design studio “for the clever, curious and sometimes misbehaved.” This has always been our slogan because I specifically love working with clients who like to think outside of the box and push boundaries! Some of my current and past clients include a women-owned dispensary, a LGBTQ+ friendly hat shop, a holistic health coach, a high-end medspa, and a cocktail and barware shop.

I act as a creative partner to my clients and help them create everything from logos and branding to websites, marketing materials, social media campaigns, apparel and stationery, and even product packaging – if you can dream it up, I can make it a reality! What I think sets me apart is that I love adding a thoughtful, handcrafted approach to my designs through one-of-a-kind illustrations that can be used across a business’s brand. I also love to write, so I offer my clients copywriting in addition to my design services.

Tell us a bit about you and why you do what you do. Share your passions for your business, organization, or initiative.

I created Middle Child in 2020 during the pandemic – starting my own business was always something I had wanted to do but I felt like I never had the time since I was commuting to my corporate job in the city. Once we launched, I quickly realized how much of a creative outlet Middle Child provided me. Creating something from nothing and helping others bring their dream to fruition fulfilled me and made me happy in ways I had never been before. Illustrating and designing is like meditation to me and it’s so cool that I can make a living from it too! After three years in business I became a mom and now I feel so proud sharing my passion with my son, Amari, and showing him the benefits and joy that can come from entrepreneurship and creativity.

What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that had an impact on you?

I recently saw a quote that read “Be yourself so the people looking for you can find you” – it’s so simple but it had a huge impact on me. Any creative can attest to how much imposter syndrome plays into the creative process and I think it’s so easy to question ourselves and wonder “am I too this” or “am I too that.” Especially as a business owner, there’s always this fear of showing too much of your true self. I think the quote was a great reminder that you don’t have to cater to everyone and that your people are out there, so let your freak flag fly!

What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you or your business?

Although I’m very outgoing with family and friends, I’m actually quite introverted and my business often pushes me out of my comfort zone – which is a good thing! My personality is either one extreme or another – I love setting off on impulsive adventures and trying new things but at the same time I just want to be cuddled up at home, reading a book with snacks. Illustrating and designing feels like the perfect mix for me because I can be bold and fearless as I create, while still enjoying that quiet downtime to do my own thing.

What is Creative Collective?

Creative Collective is a group of economic development strategists, small business supporters, activation specialists, and believers in the importance of the creative workforce. We foster growth, sustainability, and scalability for small businesses, creative thinkers, organizations, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Learn more and join Creative Collective at www.creativecollectivema.com/join