November 2024 // Assignment
In my Packaging & Branding class, we were initially tasked with redesigning an existing brand or creating our own to develop packaging for. I began with a rebrand of the VTSU Wellness Center, focusing on their logo and visual identity. However, when it came to packaging, I realized the concept didn't align well. So, I pivoted and created my own chocolate brand: CoCoCritters.
Inspired by Tony's Chocolonely, a company committed to ending child labor and promoting ethical cocoa sourcing, I wanted CoCoCritters to reflect similar values. Tony’s emphasizes transparency and pays farmers a living income to combat exploitation in the cocoa industry. I also aimed to highlight all-natural ingredients in my product, ensuring the design communicated this commitment.
Design-wise, I wanted to incorporate my minimalist style. Surprisingly, I found inspiration in baby food packaging, which often features clean, simple designs with a touch of whimsy. This unexpected source helped me craft a unique aesthetic for CoCoCritters.
A significant component of the project involved rendering our product as a 3D model. As a newcomer to 3D design, this was a steep learning curve. While I anticipated using Blender, we utilized Adobe Dimension instead. Although Adobe is transitioning to Substance 3D Stager, Dimension served as an accessible introduction to 3D modeling.
Despite my efforts, I wasn't entirely satisfied with how my 3D model turned out. Recognizing the limitations of Adobe Dimension, especially as it's being phased out in favor of Substance, I decided to try something else. While exploring mockup websites, I found one for food packaging, and I knew it would be perfect for my vision. This tool allowed me to present my packaging design in a more polished and realistic manner, aligning better with my original vision for CoCoCritters. This experience underscored the importance of adaptability and the value of leveraging the right tools to bring a design concept to life.
