Insider's Interview part 2: Payal Kripalani of Checkerboard

Can you give us an example of some parameters or rules of thumb that you follow?
Sure, here are examples of a few things that I think are key for successful design-
Design with your customer in mind, Have your pulse on the industry, fashion and trends, Beautiful form and function go hand and hand
 
I noticed all the great color combinations, Where do get your color theory and inspiration from?
We create our own combinations/palettes by studying the trends we see in the design and fashion industry. It is very exciting to study trends and apply your knowledge to a specific design.
I don’t even know to begin with where I find color inspiration. There are so many places to collect your inspiration from – different  websites, blogs, magazines, color reports and so on. I love looking at fashion magazines like W, In style, Vogue etc. and Interior design magazines like Dwell, Elle décor and so on.
Some favorite sites and blogs: Design Sponge, Colour Lovers, Etsy Weddings. These are just a few of the so many places
 
Do you seem to ideate more in your head first, the computer, or by playing with materials in your hands?
Most times, it’s in my head first. I find that inspiration and ideas come to me in the strangest places. I think if you’re a designer and you see something neat that inspires you, could be a beautiful bouquet, a pretty dress, an amazing plate of food, it makes you want to design and make something cool as well.
 
Where do you look when you need to find inspiration fast?
For fast inspiration, I love to look at our own product. If I can say so myself, I love our invitations and taking a quick look through my favorites gets my creative juices flowing. Makes me want to make more!

Do you have any regular sources where you collect inspiration from? If so, where?
 As artists we all bring our own inspirations to the table and in collaborating in our work we are able to inspire each other with new fresh ideas.
 
What do you do when unplugged from the adobe suite?
Hmmm…. Besides designing, here are some of my favorite things to do: I love painting. I also enjoy cooking - making delicious food and making it look good on a plate is definitely an art! I love watching my favorite TV shows. I also enjoy short reading materials - magazines, articles etc. and of course surfing the web
 
Do you have other artistic endeavors or hobbies?
Yes I do, I love to paint as well. I like sketching and also do oils and acrylic on canvas. Some of my paintings can be seen here: www.payalsart.com
 
Have you always worked in the invitations industry?
I did some graphic design work before, but I’ve been in the invitations industry for most of my professional life. I always liked paper products, but being an invitation designer makes you fall more in love with it! It’s got to be one of the most creative professions around. Very satisfying for someone who loves to design and create. The raw materials are beautiful and you have a great mix of craftsmanship and technology to play with.
 
This may not be as relevant but since you reside in Massachusetts, are you into the Boston Music Scene at all?
No, unfortunately not big into the Boston Music Scene. I’ve seen a few bands now and then, but nothing I can talk intelligently about.

Comments

[Alli]

great interview!

[kyle]

Do you like long walks on the beach? :p

Great Interview Tara!