What I’ve Learned from Sticking Around

I’m Praise — an art director, creative strategist, and builder of beautifully functional design systems. For the past 17 years, I’ve grown within teams I believed in, shaped campaigns that moved the needle, and led creative that’s equal parts thoughtful and effective.

I believe in sticking with work I care about. That’s why I’ve spent 6 years at Walmart Connect, 5 years supporting Apple, and 8 years growing with Restoration Hardware — evolving at each step from hands-on designer to trusted creative leader.

My career began at Restoration Hardware, where I was hired as a Web Designer and stayed for nearly a decade. There, I grew into the role of Digital Creative Lead, overseeing the full digital ecosystem of seasonal launches, product storytelling, and eCommerce experiences. I helped architect and maintain a proprietary digital asset library of 175,000+ images and SKUs, served as a liaison between creative, marketing, and tech, and honed a meticulous eye for luxury styling and retouching consistency.

From there, I joined Level Studios to work with Apple, where I started as a Sr. Interactive Designer and was promoted to Creative Design & Production Lead. I was responsible for ensuring all digital assets — from landing pages to global product visuals — met Apple’s high bar. I also led a team of 11 full-time retouchers embedded on-site, implemented systems that mirrored Apple’s internal workflows, and managed cross-functional creative production with calm, precision, and a sharp aesthetic sense.

Eventually, I brought that blend of executional rigor and creative leadership to Walmart Connect, where I started as a Senior Designer and advanced to Lead Art Director for Motion & Video. I directed the development of concept art, storyboards, and motion-driven campaigns across Walmart’s retail media ecosystem. I partnered closely with producers, writers, and brand partners to create cohesive narratives, while mentoring younger creatives and helping evolve Walmart’s supplier-facing brand presence. I also introduced new tools (like InVision) to streamline collaboration and visual alignment across a fast-paced digital team.

What’s consistent throughout my career is not just longevity — it’s growth. I’ve been trusted to lead teams, define systems, and elevate visual storytelling because I care about the details and the people behind them. Whether I’m directing a campaign, crafting a motion identity, refining a retouching pipeline, or designing a menu for my side-hustle deli, I bring thoughtfulness, consistency, and just enough irreverence to make things memorable.

I’m passionate about building creative that’s clear, intentional, and beautifully executed — and I’m always looking to collaborate with teams who feel the same.