Eden, who is 28 years old, has been working at Cutting Edge for four years as a skilled graphic designer. Her primary responsibility is managing the company’s printers, as well as creating logos and designing vehicle graphics in various styles. Eden has always been passionate about creative design, and took design classes during high school. Later, she pursued her passion further by studying a Bachelor of Visual Communication (Graphic Design) at CPIT, now known as Ara Institute, in Christchurch.
At Cutting Edge, they have different software and programs that allow them to create and print a range of different designs. Eden was able to learn on the job and gain new skills and knowledge. As Eden’s experience grew, so did her role at Cutting Edge. Her passion for crafting logos from scratch has allowed her to take on more responsibilities and bigger projects. She said:
“I enjoy the challenge of starting from scratch and brining clients’ visions to life”.
As part of Eden’s role as a graphic designer, she frequently interacts with clients. The sign writing process starts by determining whether they already have a logo or design that they want to use. If they do, Eden will work with them to incorporate it into the vehicle wrap or signage. If
not, she’ll work with the client to develop a design that reflects their values and target market. Once a design has been finalised, it’s time to work with the client to mock it up onto their signage or vehicle. This allows them to see how it will look in real life and make any necessary adjustments before the final product is produced.
An intricate part of the design and printing process with vehicles is having to consider the 3D aspect. When it comes to wrapping different vehicle makes and models you have to consider an allowance for more material. This is one of Eden’s favourite aspects of her job, she said “it’s quite cool to design something on my computer screen in 2D and then to see it finally in a 3D form is really satisfying.” Eden really enjoys the working environment at Cutting Edge. She said it’s a real team environment where we all help each other out. She also explained how it’s great that all of their work is carried out in house so the team gets to see projects from start to finish.
We talked to Eden about what she enjoys about the Nelson Tasman region, she replied “it’s beautiful. I live in Mahana which is lovely, it’s just peaceful and quiet. She also highlighted how lucky we are to have such quick access to beautiful beaches, mountains and great walking tracks. Eden makes the most of Rabbit Island, going for walks and catching up with friends in her spare time.
Eden shared some great advice for those leaving school and deciding on what to do next:
“Just give it a go, get yourself out there. I think there’s so much opportunity, there’s no harm in just trying and seeing if you like it first. When you leave school, go out and get some work experience in different industries before deciding on the pathway you wish to pursue.”
