Welcome! I'm Gina McKinna — a freelance graphic designer and brand consultant residing in Carlsbad, CA. I've known I wanted to be a graphic designer ever since the eighth grade (before I even knew what graphic design was!) I began experimenting with printing my own greeting cards, making fliers and posters, and drawing to my heart's content. After taking 3 years of art, design, and general college courses in the Bay Area, I transferred to the Art Institute in San Diego to complete my Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design.
Not only did I fall in love with design, but Southern California as well! I definitely consider it my home away from home. I've also spent 3.5 years living in Denver, CO to shake things up a bit, but ultimately missed San Diego too much. I spend my free time doing all the family things (the Zoo and Safari Park are top faves!), walking our 17 year old dog, chasing coastal coffee shops, and reading suspenseful mysteries. I also enjoy mentoring other graphic designers and portfolio reviews.
With over a decade of freelance experience in creating buzzworthy designs for brands big and small, including designs for San Diego Wave Fútbol Club, Wrangler® Pet, and products featured on Shark Tank — I’m ready to take on just about any design challenge thrown at me. As a full-time freelance designer, I understand the need to juggle projects, adapt to brand voices, and respect time and budgets.
"But Gina, how do you get your clients?" — This is the number one question I am asked! Prior to freelancing, I spent a number of years as an in-house graphic designer for several corporate headquarters, including Jack in the Box and Petco. After 5 years designing and leading the Visual team at Petco, I had made incredible colleague connections and learned the ins and outs of how corporations run that gave me the confidence to branch out on my own. My business is solely based on client referrals, which I am infinitely grateful for!
If you're looking for some design help and think we'd be a good match, let's connect!