SLAPS

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Executive Director, Marketing and Communications of OCAD University

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Canada's largest art and design university.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire SLAPS to accomplish?

• Create a brand and visual identity for a new university initiative - the Mindful Campus
• Create a logo and visual assets
• Create brand guidelines

SOLUTION

How did you find SLAPS?

Online Search

Why did you select SLAPS over others?

• Great culture fit
• Innovative and interesting Gen Z-focused design work samples

How many teammates from SLAPS were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Based on our background research, brand positioning and creative brief, SLAPS was tasked with creating a visual brand and visual identity for our new project, The Mindful Campus. SLAPS was also tasked with creating some specific deliverables such as a logo, 'characters', poster, social and web samples as well as a brand guidelines document. SLAPS also delivered a set of specific graphics using their visual identity and brand work including pull-up banners, video graphics, posters and social posts.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

This project had extremely tight timelines and SLAPS delivered great work that exceeded our expectations on time.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Project management was excellent. All deliverables were on time. Communication was very easy, with regular meetings and quick email responses.

What was your primary form of communication with SLAPS?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

All of our interactions with SLAPS exceeded expectations. Project management and communication were great. SLAPS' initial concept development demonstrated a deep understanding of the project, and subsequent feedback was incorporated thoughtfully. Asset delivery went beyond expectations. SLAPS team understood the project very quickly and were dialed in on the target audience's preferences.

Are there any areas for improvement or something SLAPS could have done differently?

No, nothing.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder and CEO of an e-commerce platform that curates innovative and independent brands globally. We focus on lifestyle products grounded in utility, sustainability, and design.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with SLAPS?

We needed help structuring a Web3 launch. We are creating a bridge between Web2, a physical product marketplace, and Web3, essentially the next iteration of the web built on the blockchain. I would describe Web3 as an immersive visual experience with digital wearables, but it hasn’t been defined yet, so this is a big adventure.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

At the start of the project, we gave Seba (Founder & Creative Director) all of our assets and showed him what we’d done in the past. He had us complete a questionnaire so that he could understand the sentiment of our brand and what we liked and didn't like through our responses and visual examples. Then, he presented us with some design options, we offered feedback, and he designed iterations. One of his early logo designs for us was really cool, but it didn’t fit our brand perfectly, so we provided feedback, and he made changes. 

Seba has advised us on Web3 and helped us execute our framework. He’s identified the essential components to refine our brand and designed the branding, logo, and colors. Our vision is a site that’s striking, modern, appropriate for Web3, and memorable. He’s designed our brand new Web3 website based on this vision and unedited scripts for the site that I’ve sent him. 

He’s also assisted with marketing. He’s helped us identify key partners from his network who understand how to market to an NFT Web3 audience, from PR contacts to Discord experts. 

What is the team composition?

Four SLAPS team members worked with us on the project, including Seba.

How did you come to work with SLAPS?

I found Seba through an online matchmaking platform for brands seeking creative partners. There’s a lot of risk involved in Web3 since it’s new, so we wanted to find culture-driven, skilled designers with incredible acumen. I’ve worked at many big companies with some of the best designers in the world, so I have a precise design aesthetic. 

The platform curated several designers for me, and all of them were great. I chose Seba because his growing portfolio was strong; I could tell he was special.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent less than $10,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in June 2022, and I’m scoping another assignment for them now.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement? 

Seba and his team hit it out of the park; I’ve been blown away by their talent. The second version of the logo design is perfect; it’s timeless but has an edge. 

We haven’t launched the new website yet, but the designs are jaw-dropping. I have particular tastes, and I think SLAPS’ work is impressive. We have a diverse team, and everyone thinks the designs are incredible. There is an emotional connection that SLAPS has fostered with their designs, and it benefits the users. Even though I sent Seba too much copy for the website, his design is so visually stunning that it isn’t an issue. He’s created something fresh, new, and completely on brand; the website is everything I wished for. 

How did SLAPS perform from a project management standpoint?

They complete their work on time. We are on an aggressive timeline, which Seba has accommodated; he has a standard process in place that he’s adjusted to fit our timeline. 

We communicate via Slack.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Seba is a star with a rare talent; I know he’s special because I’ve worked with stars, and I haven’t seen anyone like him in years. Seba’s dedication and passion for quality design are unique. He is an excellent designer who doesn’t send us any designs that don’t meet his high standards. He’s a strong designer who’s flexible; he’s helpful, open to suggestions, and does not try to sell services I don’t need. He’s very honest and very straightforward — I know he’ll never steer me wrong.

He listens to my vision and thoughtfully executes designs to express that vision. He and I align on a certain culture and style, and he can tailor his designs based on what a brand needs. I’m very busy, but I’m leaving this review because I want to express how remarkable Seba and his company are and how much success I think they’ll have in the future. Seba is a unique blend of businessperson and creative.

Additionally, Seba has a very interesting network of designers, publicists, and Web3 experts, which is very powerful. He has the ability to not only recognize talent but also keep groups unified on a vision, which is an art; it’s hard to do that.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I don’t have any negative comments.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

If you engage with SLAPS, you’ll get the best and quickest results if you overprepare and organize your materials. You should know what you want from the project, clearly define your brand, and communicate your aesthetic tastes.

I would also recommend hiring a copywriter from his team or delivering the final website copy to SLAPS. You may want to write a one-pager on your brand as well. These steps will likely make the process move faster; however, Seba has been able to work within our timeline even without these steps.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the co-founder of a new functional beverage line. We're just in the beginning of launching new products.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire SLAPS, and what were your goals?

We started a brand new company and hired SLAPS to bring our vision of what the brand felt like, to life. What it looked like, how it made you feel and what the overall world is.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We had talked to a few different agencies and reviewed a bunch of brand kits and SLAPS had the right energy, voice and professionalism.

Describe the scope of their work in detail, including any steps and the final deliverables.

We started with a very in-depth questionnaire scope to get to know what we were looking for, what we wanted it to feel like and then had conversations to dive further into it. They then came up with concepts of what it looked and felt like and the overall vibe, which was spot on what we were hoping for. The next step was logo and can design and they went back and forth with us until it was perfect and we were happy.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

We worked with the owner and project manager of the company, as well as the graphics designer.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We've been able to create our website and social based on the materials that were provided to us, as well as we constantly get compliments on our can design.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

We has constant communication and updates as to where the project was at. Anytime we had questions, replies were immediate.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

I'll start by saying that we were a brand new company with general ideas of what we wanted, which changed as we went, so we probably weren't the easiest to work with, but firstly, they're incredibly creative and talented. Secondly, they were so attentive to us as clients and really took the time to understand what we wanted. Lastly, they went above and beyond what any other company would have done just to make sure everything was perfect and we were happy with the results.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Nothing at all, the whole process was very seamless

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Founder & Artistic Director of a design agency specializing in branding and content creation.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire SLAPS, and what were your goals?

SLAPS was my number one choice to handle the production and editing for this Music Video/DJ Session; which was an essential part of the brand relaunch for an indie DJ.

SOLUTION

How did you select SLAPS and what were the deciding factors?

After several agency interviews, SLAPS stood out because of its collaborative ethos when working with clients and approaching creative projects. Working with them feels like a true partnership, not just someone you hired.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

After we onboarding SLAPS to the project, we went into strategic brainstorming to create a concept that was along with brand guidelines as well as ensuring this Music Video/session would be a commercial success when released. From there we were provided with a mood board and treatment that captured the vision of the artist and his brand aesthetic.

In the production and post-production stage, every scene was meticulously shot and edited

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

From SLAPS’ team, we worked with their Creative Director Sébastien Vandecasteele and Video Producer Pol Rende. We scheduled out weekly calls to collaboratively go over the edits.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

When we received the final product, it was incredible, and we knew that we needed them to complete the video trilogy. Pre-Production for the second shoot has already begun.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Their management and communication style was thorough. We received detailed updates on the progress project via email, and they hit every deadline, even the tight ones.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their attention to detail and collaborative ethos, as well as their willingness to educate, were impressive.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

SLAPS is an expert within their field.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder of a consumer-focused cannabis company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with SLAPS?

They created a logo, brand strategy, visual identity, and packaging for us. In essence, they helped us set up our brand.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They first focused on designing our packaging. Their team focused on delivering a balanced, peaceful style that would attract our target audience. Based on this work, they then created a brand strategy and guidelines, brand materials color scheme, and design for our website.

What is the team composition?

We worked with a brand strategist, a content creator, and a designer.

How did you come to work with SLAPS?

I found them through their Instagram page. The visuals on their page really stood out to me. I also knew the owner, so I felt extremely comfortable reaching out. After looking at them in conjunction with some other vendors, we chose them due to their authentic designs and speed of delivery.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent between €10,000–€20,000 (approximately $12,000–$24,000 USD) with them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from December 2020–March 2021. I'm hoping to work with them again in the future.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

The end products were quite strong. They identified concrete target audiences and came up with an innovative brand strategy. We tested their deliverables with a small focus group that responded positively to what they saw. We’re excited to see how everything goes once our website is live.

How did SLAPS perform from a project management standpoint?

Overall, the engagement was positive and professional. Their team was responsive and always met deadlines. They were clear and concise, making sure tasks didn’t take longer than needed.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They understood what we were thinking and were able to translate it to the brand materials.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I wish they had a more development-focused portion of their team. That way, they could have also built my website.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be clear with what you want, but be open to their ideas as well. Their team is smart and can provide legitimate feedback that will make the project as successful as possible.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the owner at DOUGHCLUB, A bakery specializing in Roman style pizza.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire SLAPS, and what were your goals?

We actually hired SLAPS to do the full scope of branding for us. They started from naming the brand all the way to market penetration strategies. I’d say they gave us a full Branding/Marketing solution.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We wanted a firm without much involvement in our region as our target was to have a brand that’s very unique in the market. After interviewing multiple firms we fell in love with SLAPS as we felt they where a little bit crazy and that’s exactly what we wanted.

Describe the scope of their work in detail, including any steps and the final deliverables.

SLAPS started by interviewing us and getting to know the what’s our idea for the concept and who we targeted, then they came up with multiple different ideas on how to move forward with the branding, we then went on to develop one of the ideas until we settled on a direction, then SLAPS worked their magic and deliver what we consider to be one the strongest brands in our region

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

Honestly we had one main point of contact that was Sebastian(the owner) but in each meeting if needed one of his team members would join.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

We haven’t finished with the construction work for our bakery but we got approached by a few design awards committees enquire about our branding.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

We had weekly meetings and sometimes more than once a week depending on the stage of the project, SLAPS use to submit weekly documents for us to review. This helped a lot in the progression of the project.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their creativity and work quality was impressive.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Nothing to improve. I’m super satisfied with the work.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Creative Director of a seltzer brand made for outdoor adventurers.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire SLAPS, and what were your goals?

We hired SLAPS for the branding and packaging of our Seltzer brand.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We found them online and it immediately felt like they understood our vibe so without hesitation we chose them as our preferred partner.

Describe the scope of their work in detail, including any steps and the final deliverables.

We started off by doing a couple catch up calls to understand our product and needs. From there we had a lot of back and forward reviewing their work to make sure it was in line with our thoughts.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

We worked with their Art Director and project manager mainly.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Great, we are just finishing up the packaging, everything is in production as we speak. So far the reactions have been great.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Fast and very responsive, usually they got back to us within 1 day. The project lasted for a good 6 weeks until we started packaging.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

How attentive they are, we really felt like they were part of our internal team.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Instead of multiple small revisions, we could have done 1 or two big bulk ones which would have saved us some time. Other than that, great experience.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the VP of Eaze, the largest cannabis marketplace and delivery service based in California.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire SLAPS?

We were launching a street wear brand and needed someone to help us launch the brand in a big way. SLAPs came in and helped us create brand positioning and a logo for the brand. We ended up changing the design of the clothing to what SLAPS had presented because we were so impressed with their design work. They then came to the table with fantastic ideas on how to launch the brand via social channels.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

I met with the founder who had a fantastic energy about him. I was impressed by their portfolio and I asked them for a proposal for a small project. They came back to me within days with a proposal AND ideas for the project. Their ideas were so good and the fact that they came up with them without even being our agency made me want to work with them.

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

We wanted to launch a streetwear line called Eaze Effects. We didn't have a launch plan but knew social would be the biggest channel. We ended up pivoting their scope of work because we liked their ideas so much. We kicked off a social media strategy meeting where we shared what we envisioned the look and feel to be.

They came back with a proposal which we loved. Then we talked about how to capture the content, then they came back with a photoshoot idea which was fantastic (very minimal feedback on both their ideas).

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

3 resources.

• One creative director
• one photographer/videographer
• one senior designer

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

As of this review, we haven't launched the line. However we've used their designs in our customer feedback interviews and have recieved great reviews.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Workflow was great - they were super responsive and proactive about putting check in meetings and constantly communicating with us.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their ideas. We are impressed with how fast they could come up with such creative ideas that really built our brand.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Not at all, they were fantastic partners. Always willing to work with us to delivery what we needed, even on budget.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Founder of ecommerce company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire SLAPS?

• Brand identity
• logo design
• UI/UX

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

References

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

1. brand identity packet
2. logo
3. typeface
4. UI wireframes
5. Shopify build

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

Worked w their CEO

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Shopify store built out

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

PM was very good at communicating status of project. Took time out of his today and constantly would go over scheduled meeting times to make sure we had what we needed

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

The cost and quality results combo were fantastic!

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

N/A