In the spirit of everyone loves an underdog, I would like to offer the unveiling of the NE 42nd Avenue Business Association’s new logo.  Our street is starting from ground zero in many ways, starting up a new group particularly of people with business interests is not too dissimilar from starting a business.  When we started our Portland Swimwear Shop Popina we had many of the same immediate issues to deal with such as developing a logo/identity and getting on the map. 

Our board has been meeting regularly for the last year getting administrative matters in order such as bylaws, etc.  We quickly put our focus on taking down the old, tired banners that were flapping in the wind and not giving the proper face our street deserved.  After interviewing a few graphic designers we chose Jen Kilcoyne, a great local graphic designer.  The final logo was a great collaboration between our great board group of NE 42nd Avenue and Jen. 

I love to participate in creative processes with professional creative people.  I was a bit nervous going into a design process with a committee (a working group of 10 people weighing in on the direction of the logo).  Jen did a great job of drawing out ideas from the group then developing our new identity from our input.  Personally I love the street banners with the open for business.  For me it acknoledges the current tough business environment and pokes fun at our selves a little for being the underdog.

The logo has three iterations, one to be used for window decals for businesses:

This logo below will be used on street banners.  We are applying for a grant to the APNBA for funds to hopefully install these new banners in the spring!

And this logo will be used for letterhead:

So wish us good luck on the grant, I can not wait to see the new banners up it will really spice up the street, and if you have been thinking about opening a business or have a friend who is looking, come to NE 42nd Avenue.  We have very affordable commercial rents and great location!