Breeona Nechole
Breeona is a creative designer with a focus on creating beautiful, functional brands and Webflow websites, as well as extracting the essence of a brand to create a digital experience that truly represents a company's values and mission. Branding is often the first point of contact with your customers and fans, and Breeona aims to ensure they feel seen, heard, and cared for. She is an active participant in the Webflow design community and uses the platform for her own portfolio, as well as client projects as she grows her design practice.
Breeona! Tell us about yourself - how did you get to where you are today? When did you first become interested in design?
Throughout my life, my mother emphasized both academics and the arts. I grew up immersed in AP classes, orchestra, and art, which laid a strong foundation. I pursued computer sciences in college, and in 2017, I began learning web design and development. I started my own holistic company, but in 2021, I was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called Behcet's, which left me bedridden for a year. This forced me to pivot my career as a newly disabled person.
I decided to focus on web development and branding for other companies, starting my freelancing journey. Drawing on my previous skills and utilizing tools like Figma and Webflow, I felt confident running my own business. Despite challenges, I've been able to adapt and continue pursuing my passion for design and development.
Designer Breeona Nechole
“Get a mentor. I have immense gratitude and loyalty to the people who have taken me under their wing. There's value in surrounding yourself with those who have more experience.
You won't know everything, and that's okay—embrace the learning stages and stay open to growth and guidance.”
How would you describe your aesthetic and how has your design style changed over time? What types of design (illustration, 3D, etc.) are you most excited to work on and why?
My aesthetic is versatile, as I enjoy exploring and integrating different styles in my work. Over time, I've refined my ability to channel creativity into coherent and effective branding and web design. This adaptability allows me to meet diverse client needs and keep my work fresh and innovative.
I have a deep passion for 3D design, which is a consistent element in my personal projects. I'm particularly excited about the potential of 3D in product visualization and branding. There are numerous creative applications for 3D design beyond traditional icons, and I'm eager to help clients leverage this technology to enhance their brand presence.
Online Experience for Beyoncé’s Renaissance Concert Designed by Breeona Nechole
What is your creative process like? How do you approach projects that require design and development components?
People often assume that creativity comes at the expense of organization, but I have a detailed system for managing my projects. I break them into phases: Discovery, Branding and Design, Development, and Implementation.
I start with workshops to identify issues and brainstorm solutions, ensuring we achieve the best results for the client. Effective communication is key throughout this process. Once the groundwork is laid, I dive into the creative phase, where I have the freedom to innovate and create. This approach allows me to deliver designs that are both visually appealing and highly functional, tailored to meet my clients' needs.
You've built your portfolio in Webflow - in your opinion, what makes a great portfolio? Do you have any tips on how to put together a stellar portfolio site?
A great portfolio is accessible and effectively showcases your work. Understanding and targeting your audience is crucial; consider their journey and how they interact with your site. Additionally, sharing your personal story adds a unique touch and helps to connect with viewers on a deeper level.
For a stellar portfolio site, focus on clean design, intuitive navigation, and high-quality visuals. Highlight your best projects and provide context for each one, explaining your role and the impact of your work. I love my portfolio and I am excited to share an upcoming upgrade!
Website for Bespoke Hair Systems and Premium Hair by Breeona Nechole
You're active in the design community - can you share your perspective on the impact being involved in the community has had on your career and your work?
Being active in the design community has profoundly impacted my life and career. I've developed friendships worldwide with supportive peers who help each other learn, build, and grow. This collaborative environment has not only enhanced my skills but also allowed me to give back and assist others.
Networking within the community has also been a significant source of job opportunities. People trust me because I've built strong relationships and demonstrated consistency in my work. Being part of the community is vital for personal and professional growth, fostering a sense of belonging and continuous learning.
Country Everywhere Site by Breeona Nechole. Country Everywhere is a space where black, queer, and disabled people in the country music space are celebrated.
What’s been one of your favorite projects to work on recently and why?
Recently, one of my favorite projects has been a personal one—working on a rebrand that includes content creation and interactive workshops. It's been meaningful to me because I'm passionate about helping designers and companies effectively communicate their brands to consumers. This project allows me to explore new ways to achieve that goal and make a positive impact.
What’s been one of the biggest career lessons you've learned so far?
One of the biggest career lessons I've learned is not to become too attached to preconceived notions of how things should be. It's crucial to remain flexible and open to change, as adaptability is key to growth and success in any field.
Villie Site by Breeona Nechole. Villie is a online app that allows families to share with their private villages.
Where do you find creative inspiration? Do you have any favorite design resources?
Oddly enough, I find inspiration from my various hobbies, such as baking, cooking, nail art, music, fashion, and hairstyling. I also enjoy observing the architecture of buildings and the different textures found in the world around me. Ultimately, I am inspired by the diversity and creativity of humans and life itself.
Jumpstart Designers Site by Breeona Nechole. This project was created to fund black and brown students with equipment and mentorship to create art
What advice would you give to artists and designers just starting out?
Get a mentor. I have immense gratitude and loyalty to the people who have taken me under their wing. There's value in surrounding yourself with those who have more experience. You won't know everything, and that's okay—embrace the learning stages and stay open to growth and guidance.
When you look to the future, what are you excited about?
I'm always excited by the unknown. There's so much to learn, so many people to meet, and countless brands to help expand. I truly hope to continue working with people I admire the most and explore new opportunities for growth and creativity.
Thank you for sharing with us Breeona! To view more of Breeona’s work, visit her website.
Breeona was nominated by Webflow. All art courtesy of Breeona Nechole.