Today we’d like to introduce you to Haley Harms.
Haley, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I went to college in Waverly, Iowa at a small liberal arts college called Wartburg College. I started out studying mathematics but soon realized my love for creativity since I was young was something I could pursue as a degree too. I started studying Graphic Design and graduated with my Bachelor of Arts in 2019 with minors in Marketing, Environmental Studies, and Spanish. After graduation, I started working for a start-up tech company located in Southern Minnesota. I worked with a talented creative team where I learned and grew as a designer and played a part in many sustainability efforts the company focused on. After two and a half years, and changes within the company, I moved on to becoming a full time freelance designer. At first, I worked for a few small business in the midwest on the side during my 8-5. This then grew into The Hustle Marketing Co. which I co-founded with an old coworker and close friend. I’ve also been able to grow my own personal freelance business, Haley Harms Creative Co. and have worked on many start-up logo branding and website projects.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
When I graduated from college, I moved back home to work for the start up tech company. I loved living at home because I’ve always been close to my family and it gave me the opportunity to be close to them for a couple more years. When I moved to Iowa to be closer to my partner of 5 years. This was during the pandemic and learning to work remote and be away from family was difficult. Being without a team in an office was also a change that I had to get used to. I also lost my job a few months ago, which meant I lost a team that I was so proud of being a part of because of the talent and how close we were, however, I’ve now found a bigger purpose from it all. I was able to go full-time freelance and truly take the time to create for myself. With my marketing agency, I co-founded with a close friend, we were able to also take on more clients and develop a brand for ourselves as well. I learned that my creative moments come late at night or early in the morning rather than all day. I’ve also been given the opportunity to assistant coach at Cornell College for the cross country and track teams..all of which took place after losing my job and picking myself and my love for design and care for my mental health first.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
When I was in school, I knew I loved design but I wanted it to mean something. I’ve always loved the earth and now more than ever, it deserves to have someone fight for it. I chose to fight for the earth through design. I specialized a lot in environmental design in college and worked with sustainability in my last job as well. I’ve always considered myself a Pro Planet designer and love to create to better the social and environmental world around us. I Recently, I’ve found myself doing a lot of one off logo and branding projects for clients who have reached out over Instagram! It’s been fun creating for people looking to start their own businesses. Through my job with The Hustle Marketing Co., I’ve done a lot of social media marketing, branding, and websites.
I think what I’m known for is my style, which I think is similar for most designers. I’ve had a lot of friends let me know that they know it’s my work when they see it. I love being able to create something special for someone or even myself that I’ve worked hours on but finally get it right when I’ve gone for a run or even pick up my book to read and come back to finish the design.
What were you like growing up?
I’m 100% an introvert, shy, and have always had anxiety too. I feel like they partly go hand in hand. Up until a few years ago, I didn’t see mental health as something to talk about or be proud of I guess, but I’m learning that it’s very important. It’s a strength.
I love love love to run. I ran in college and still run now that I’m graduated. It’s my favorite way to relieve stress and be outside.
Other interests include a great holiday book, being around my family and close friends, and spending so much time designing in coffee shops.
Contact Info:
- Email: haleyharmscreative@gmail.com
- Website: haleyharmscreative.com
- Instagram: @artofhales
- Other: https://dribbble.com/haleyharms
Image Credits
Taylor Friehl (Headshot)
