Kayleigh Denner





Kayleigh Denner is a platform based web designer and illustrator living in Atlanta. GA. With clients likeSandy's, Festif, The Josephine Bar, Lara Adekola, Colleen Hamilton, and Isle of Us, Kayleigh blends creative storytelling with a vibrant and playful design aesthetic.

Can you share any habits or routines that you believe have been crucial to your success as a designer?





One element in my creative career that has helped push me and expand me is definitely: communication and energy. I find clients will enjoy working with you if you show up excited, present, and ready for the project. 


Your portfolio is incredibly unique and visually striking. Can you describe the process you went through to develop the overall look and feel of your website?








I've always been attracted to playfulness, and one way I translate that to web design is through color and movement. I love primary colors but with a modern twist. For example, the color red is magnificent, but a poppy red is extra fun. I also incorporate movement through scrolling animations whenever possible. I'm a total CSS coding nerd. 


What advice would you give to aspiring designers who are just starting their careers? Are there any skills or techniques you would recommend for aspiring designers to learn to enhance their work?






My biggest advice: don't take revision requests and edits personally. Usually, as a designer, you're working with something pretty precious: someone else's vision. So learning how to absorb the request and try your best to make it happen will help you in the long run. 


Additionally, what key factors do you consider when establishing connections with clients, and how do you effectively communicate and justify your design choices to them?





Like a friend or a partner, it's important you find clients you jive with. Having a strong portfolio gives them an idea of your visual aesthetic and design choices before they even reach out! Some of the coolest and longest-lasting clients are often the ones that find you.


What sources of inspiration outside of design influence your creative process?


Something I say so often is that my biggest source of inspiration is romanticizing everyday life: the mug you're drinking out of, a moth floating around the porch, the drooping tulips in a vase. That, plus creating 500 idea boards on Pinterest.




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