MHHC Foundation Gala: On Zenith
A storybook-inspired brand experience for a community-driven celebration.
Project Snapshot
The MHHC Foundation’s 25th Annual Gala was themed “On Zenith,” inspired by The Wizard of Oz. I was brought in mid-project to lead the visual direction and reimagine the gala book, signage, and promotional materials to feel like a storybook keepsake that honored legacy, hope, and healing.
Role: Lead Designer
Deliverables: Gala Book, Signage, Social Media
Style: Elegant, Storybook, Purposeful
Reimagining the Cover
I was asked to start the cover from scratch. I created four new concepts, then merged the strongest elements into one final design: a gold road leading to MHHC’s building. The result was approved without edits.
Designing the Book’s Narrative Flow
The layout was grid-based so that heavy text and strong imagery had space to breathe. Inspired by classic fairy tales, I paired elegant serif typography with a clear hierarchy.
Bringing the Brand to the Stage
I designed two backdrops for the event. One was a traditional step-and-repeat for red carpet photos. The other was a centerpiece backdrop that reflected the cover of the book inspired directly to the book’s illustration and palette.
Elevating the Signage Experience
Every sign and print piece was crafted to guide and welcome. I designed all physical signage including banners and wayfinding, ensuring every corner of the venue reflected the visual world we built.
Extending the Brand Digitally
Social media and digital collateral carried the look and feel beyond the event space. I designed logo variations, social media posts, email headers and flyers that brought the aesthetic online.
What I Learned
I joined halfway through and still led the design direction across every format from print to digital to physical space. This project reinforced that I don’t just execute but I guide the creative process under pressure and deliver results that stick.