Ideas & Observations
Behind the creative: Kimberley Rumble
May 3, 2023
About the interviewee: My name is Kimberley and I’m the owner of Kimberley Creative, a freelance graphic design business. I’m originally from Hartlepool but moved to London in 2008 to study Graphic Design at Kingston University. My career started in print. I was fortunate enough to gain some incredible experience at a range of publishing houses and brands, working for the likes of Cosmopolitan, Superdrug’s DARE magazine and River Island. I spent 8 years in London before moving back up North in 2016. After a few years working for some local agencies and small businesses, I decided to make the leap into self-employment in 2021.
Tell us about your craft?
My main offering is print, so that includes anything from magazines to catalogues, brochures and flyers. I also design for digital marketing, for example email templates and social media graphics. Lastly, I offer branding packages, which includes strategy, logo design and brand guidelines (plus any print or digital assets that might be needed to bring a new identity to life!)
Name three creatives who inspire you?
It’s no surprise they’re all editorial designers: Michael Houtz (American GQ), Pete Allen (Magneto magazine) and Chris Clarke (Guardian) – who I actually got to work alongside briefly when I was an intern at The Times!
When you need inspiration, where do you turn?
My bookshelf; a collection of magazines and design books from the last 15 years or so.
How does failure inspire you?
I try not to view anything as a failure, everything I’ve done has led me to where I am now. If something doesn’t go to plan, there’s always a lesson to be learned from it.
What words of wisdom can you share for someone pursuing a role in the creative field?
Immerse yourself in being around creative people and teams as soon as possible! When I think back to graduating University, I emailed every magazine and creative director asking for a meeting, I interned as much as I possibly could, I attended events, I networked and worked my way up. If you’re passionate, people will remember you when an opportunity comes up.
What is your go-to way to switch off?
Walking my French Bulldog, Ralph, along the coast in Tynemouth or Whitley Bay.
