Challenge
NF Forward is an organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Neurofibromatosis (NF), a rare genetic disorder affecting 2.5 million individuals worldwide. Each year, the organization hosts a high-profile benefit gala in Detroit, bringing together donors and supporters to raise critical funds. As an escape after a year stuck inside, NF Forward’s ninth annual gala theme was inspired by the nostalgic and carefree days of summer camp, which resonated with many attendees who had fond memories of their own camp experiences. The challenge was to bring this theme to life in a way that felt sophisticated, elevated, and aligned with the organization’s mission, while maintaining a sense of charm and warmth.
Logo Design
The event’s logo needed to be versatile across various assets, from the invitation suite to signage at the gala itself. We designed an outdoorsy yet clean logo that captured the essence of summer camp while reflecting the event's high-end atmosphere. The logo was created in both a horizontal and badge version to offer flexibility across different formats, whether displayed on print materials, digital assets, or merchandise.
Design Concept
We embraced a bold, vintage aesthetic with a color palette that exuded both charm and sophistication. Warm, earthy tones like moss green, mustard yellow, and rich red were complemented by soft neutrals and pops of playful color, evoking the spirit of summer camp while feeling timeless and refined. The result was a nostalgic yet polished visual identity that set the tone for the entire event.
Opening Video
To complement the invitation, we produced an opening video that played at the event. Inspired by the quirky and colorful opening credits of Napoleon Dynamite, the video featured animated camp scenes and a narrated letter home from a camper, setting the tone for the evening. The video introduced attendees to the whimsical yet sophisticated world we had created for the event.
Invitation Suite
The invitation drew inspiration from the classic camp counselor clipboard, using a thick Kraft paper backboard and secured with a metal ACCO fastener. This tactile element not only reinforced the camp theme but also added a rustic, handmade feel to the design. The information was carefully curated to evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the structure of the invitation itself conveyed a sense of thoughtfulness and attention to detail.
Outcome
The gala was a resounding success, with the unique design elements resonating with attendees and adding to the overall atmosphere of the event. The vintage-inspired identity and invitation suite were not only a visual delight but also reinforced the core message of the evening: to raise awareness and funds for Neurofibromatosis in a way that was both memorable and impactful. The event raised $8.7 million for neurofibromatosis research, and our work on this project earned us a Gold Award at the 2022 In-House Creativity Awards.
