We've had the pleasure of interviewing Claudia del Castillo from Chipie Design, we've shared our conversation below.
Hi Claudia, can you give our readers an introduction to your business?
Chipie Design is a branding and design studio based out of Cape Cod, Massachusetts that specializes in the food and beverage industry. More than just hiring a designer, you get a thought partner that creates tailor made solutions for each business's unique needs. Because brands aren't made with just a logo, we set up brands for success and with an identity built for growth by developing a strong concept and clear brand strategy before even hitting the drawing board. I started Chipie Design over a decade ago and think the greatest perk is getting to collaborate with my favorite illustrator (and husband) Vinnie Arnone.
Have you experienced any failures during your journey, and how did you recover and move past them?
I've been very fortunate to have happy clients that love the work that I do for them, but unfortunately design is very subjective and you don't always see eye-to-eye with others. I've learned a lot from those handful of experiences to realize that this is a customer service industry and that's what matters the most to my clients....and also that you can't please everybody.
In your own words, how would you define success as an artist and business owner?
I guess there are many ways you could measure success in terms of growth, reach, recognizability, mastery, etc. The possibilities seem endless, but for me I'm just still in shock that I found something that I love to do and that people will pay me to do so. Hope I can just keep riding that wave as long as I can.
Is there someone in your life that deserves some recognition or credit?
My husband Vinnie Arnone is my secret weapon and reluctant partner in crime. He gets to contribute to most projects in one way or another and if his illustration skills can also be part of it, then it's next level magical. He's a big part of Chipie Design even though he would never admit it.
Let’s say your friend is visiting the area and wants to see your favorite hangout spots, what are some local places you’d want to show them? Places to eat, drink, visit etc.
I'm very glad you asked this question, because I feel extra lucky to have touched in one way or another most of my favorite hangout spots on Cape Cod. So it becomes like a Chipie Design tour anytime a friend comes to visit. We love being able to go to restaurants like the Lobster Trap, Trading Post Lounge, West End, The Canteen, Doghouse, Quicks Hole Taqueria, Pizza Barbone, Añejo and many others to enjoy spaces and menus we've worked on. But it's also great to feel at home in these restaurants surrounded by people you also enjoy working with.
Find Chipie Design at https://www.chipie.design/ and instagram at @chipiedesigns
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All images and artwork are copyright by the maker, unless stated otherwise.
