Meet Lara, Chef Works’ kick-ass Creative Manager

Lara is Chef Works’ kick-ass Creative Manager – she’s in charge of all the creative we make and helps to guide the overall vision for our brand. Ever wonder how we chose a certain look, or background? It’s all Lara.

We wanted to learned more about her day, to see what it takes to lead the creative and graphics department at Chef Works, so we followed her around for 10 hours and got a front row seat to the wild and crazy (and way cool) life of our Creative Manager, Lara!

 

7 a.m.: Before heading into the office, I like to plan my day, so I’m ready to tackle whatever heads my way. Over my morning coffee, I turn my attention to our upcoming lookbook shoot at L’Auberge in Del Mar – should we go with rust or blue stone Jaxon Shirts? Both would work, but what pops more against the beach-chic tones in the lobby? So many decisions, I may need to talk this over with the team…

8:30 a.m.: Finally made it my desk; emails will have to wait this morning, it’s an all hands-on deck meeting as we brainstorm creative for our latest promotion: Chef Works Scratchers. The graphics team has been pouring their heart and soul into this project, designing the perfect flyer and collateral for us to send out to our customers. I’m reviewing some of the final drafts with our stellar VP of Marketing, Amanda – she’s partial to the design that’s a little bit edgier. We narrow down the terms and conditions and I take her feedback and relay it to the team. This is going to be awesome, can’t wait for it launch!

10:00 a.m.: Running a tad-bit behind, so I race after our photographer Aaron and meet him in Little Italy to scout some restaurant locations for an upcoming shoot. We’re looking for some really cool exposed brick, maybe some industrial elements, and a touch of glam. We check out Kettner Exchange, Juniper & Ivy, and Craft & Commerce – all great options. We find ourselves at Herb & Eatery, and between bites of avocado toast and a SD Turkey Sandwich for Aaron, fall in love with the airiness of the space – now that the second-floor balcony is open, we’re thinking we could have a lot of fun in there.

1:20 p.m.: Back in the office, and I’m immediately pulled into a discussion on aprons – we have a few new styles that are currently being tested over in product development (stay tuned!), and they need names! We throw around a few, test them out, write them down, and debate them over. One of the things I love most about our marketing department is how collaborative we are. Everyone, no matter their role, jumps in with their thoughts, and what comes out our little department is some serious magic 🙂

3:15 pm.: Retouching photos… check back later, I’m in the zone!

4:50 p.m.: Alright, about to call it a day here. Plenty to do in the morning, least of which is to spearhead a photoshoot for an upcoming project. I check in with the team to make sure the models are booked, clothes are pulled and steamed, and equipment is loaded into the back of the van. It’s going to be a busy day tomorrow, but for now, it’s time for Ruby cuddles – my new puppy is pretty much the best thing ever. See you tomorrow!!

 

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