In an advanced graphic design class, I worked with real-world client, the Milwaukee area Habitat for Humanity, to concept and design an invitation, RSVP card, and return envelope for the group's annual dinner and auction. The theme for the evening was "Blueprint for Hope." After completing research into Habitat for Humanity, I understood that Habitat for Humanity is about more than just building a house, it’s about building a family.

 

My research on the word blueprint told me its definition is “a detailed outline or plan of action.” I picked up on the plan of action idea as a key concept for Habitat’s work. Putting these two ideas together, my concept for your invitation includes a family and the blueprint for a house.

 

The outside of the invitation uses green floral swirls to represent hope, growth, foundations, and excitement. The family is in the foreground because they are your purpose. The house is in the background because it is the tool Habitat uses to build the family. The family is seen with their hands clasped, representing the teamwork that is integral to the success of Habitat for Humanity. The overall effect of the invitation coordinates with key words I found in your tagline and on your website: simple, decent, and affordable.

 

The inside of the invitation again reflects the family. Key points are emphasized with the blue color. A script font is used for the event’s title to communicate a more warm, human, family feel. The one piece of the graphic that is not coming through cleanly because of printer bleed is the blueprint grid that I placed over the family. This grid confirms the idea that Habitat is about more than building houses, you are about building the family.

 

The RSVP cards continue with the same family graphic and are designed to be legible, with enough room to write.

 

The envelope can be used in the same size for both the invitation and the RSVP cards.

 

My design was chosen by Habitat and combined with another student's typographical treatment of "Blueprint for Hope" as the invitation sent out that year.