“It’s through mistakes that you actually can grow. You have to get bad in order to get good.”
—Paula Scher
Meet Melissa Beal, a powerhouse in both the corporate and creative world. As an art director for a full-service healthcare agency, and a small business Copper Rose Design Studio, Melissa does what we all aspire to do! I think for myself, Melissa is an inspiration! Melissa was a member of the CMYK club, Zeta Omicron, and the Art Honor Society during her time at Marywood. She graduated in 2014 with a BFA in graphic design. She now is a creative and talented art director, wedding invitation designer, and sign creator. Keep reading to take a peek into Melissa’s life!
What attracted you to this career path?
I was fortunate to take graphic design classes in high school, and I instantly fell in love with the balance between art, function, and problem-solving. That hybrid nature spoke to me, and I’ve been passionate about graphic design ever since.
How did your art education at Marywood help your career?
The diverse curriculum at Marywood prepared me for my career by exposing me to many facets of design. I gained experience in a variety of areas, which helped me explore different paths within the industry and ultimately discover what I truly love to do.
What was your favorite part about studying art at Marywood?
What I loved most about studying art at Marywood was the creative freedom we were given within the structure of each project. Out-of-the-box thinking was encouraged, making the process both exciting and inspiring. This approach allowed our creativity to shine and take the lead in everything we created.
Trusting the Journey! Did your career path match your vision of a career path? What was different?
Not initially, which I think is a common experience. My first role after graduating was more production-focused, which didn’t align with my creative aspirations. However, it was valuable in teaching me how to stay organized and manage files efficiently—skills that are essential in my current role. Now, I’m in a position that combines creativity and strategy, aligning perfectly with my vision.
What is your favorite thing about your current job?
As an art director at a full-service healthcare agency, I love being surrounded by passionate creatives. My favorite aspect is the constant learning—particularly the challenge of understanding complex medical science and helping translate it into visually engaging designs that resonate with both healthcare professionals and patients.
Making an Impact! (In more ways than one!)
The most rewarding moments in my career come from making a meaningful impact. Whether it’s seeing a bride and groom brought to happy tears over their wedding invitations or reading how a patient felt understood and supported because of a website I designed, those experiences are incredibly validating and gratifying.
Bonus Work!
Click the following links to take a look at Melissa’s recent incredible website designs! Take inspiration from how organized and easily accessible these sites are designed to be. These are healthcare websites, so they need to be used by all types of people. In class, we are often challenged with making things “Accessible with a capital A,” as our professor, Sue Jenkins, puts it. These websites are an incredible reflection of style, substance, and Accessibility.
What is something that would surprise people about your day-to-day?
I’ve never considered myself particularly strong in science, so working in a role where I constantly learn about complex medical concepts—and effectively communicate them visually—still surprises even me!
Are you currently working on any interesting side projects?
Yes! I run a side business, Copper Rose Design Studio, which began when I designed my own wedding invitations and signage. It quickly grew as friends requested their invitations, and now I offer my services to couples in the tri-state area. It’s a fulfilling creative outlet that allows me to use my skills in a completely different industry.
Finding Inspiration Everywhere
Inspiration comes from everywhere, but I’m especially motivated by the end goal of a project. Whether it’s creating something that makes a couple even more excited for their wedding or designing a deliverable that achieves a client’s vision, seeing the impact of my work inspires me to keep pushing boundaries.
Any advice for current art students at Marywood?
Embrace critique! I used to feel nervous during critique days at Marywood, but they turned out to be some of the most valuable learning experiences. Even if you don’t agree with every piece of feedback, it can spark fresh ideas or guide your design in a stronger direction. Some of my best work has come from revisiting early concepts with an open mind and incorporating insights from my coworkers and creative director.
I want to thank Melissa for sharing her work and journey with us! I think she shows us that you can work both corporately and in a small business, but feel rewarded in both! Don’t forget to click on the links to see her business website and see some of the real-world websites she created for health care.
