Hi, I’m Kelly - a PA-based graphic designer with a knack for illustration. I’ve been delivering creative solutions with enthusiasm since 2005.

I believe that good design requires more than an ability to "make it pretty." As a visual communicator, I take an objective-driven approach to deliver clear, on-message communication, regardless of the avenue or application. Asking important questions, thinking ahead, and "connecting dots" are crucial to designing and delivering effective visual communication. Each project, whether it's a quick social media post or an expansive campaign, requires critical thinking and a problem-solving mindset.

Making a positive impact on those around me is where much of my job satisfaction comes from. I am always eager to help my colleagues and contribute as much as I can to their success. Positivity and enthusiasm are contagious, so I make sure to bring enough to share.

(Newspaper clipping) Baby Kelly with what I can only assume is a very colorful paper plate puppet.

“That’s pretty good, Kid!”

I have always loved to create, and my Mom could keep me busy for hours with a few art supplies and Bob Ross’s The Joy of Painting playing in the background. I vividly remember making boats out of aluminum foil to float in puddles around the neighborhood after it rained (and never encountered a killer clown hiding in a rain gutter, thankfully). I also remember my Dad’s reaction to almost anything I drew as a child. He would study the drawing thoughtfully with a smile and say, “That’s pretty good, Kid!” With my parent’s encouragement, I pursued a career in design and earned my degree in 2006.

As a freelancer, I’ve enjoyed working for an eclectic group of clients including authors, business owners, online content creators, places of worship, non-profits, and people who like my illustrations and commission their own.

I design under the moniker Kaboom Kelly, a name inspired by a bright green Covergirl eyeshadow. My hope is that the name speaks to my bubbly personality and reflects my desire to make a meaningful impact.

A few interesting non-design jobs I’ve had:

  • Administrative Assistant in a high school guidance office

  • Kindergarten Classroom Aide

  • 911 Dispatcher

I learned so much about myself from these jobs - particularly stress-management and how to be a kind, patient communicator.

(Image) I drew this charming chap during a particularly grueling graveyard shift at 911.

In 2018, I founded a self-development group called Victory League that focuses on personal growth and community outreach. Our tight-knit group provides a chance to share ideas and concepts, support one another, and do some good as a team. Leading our monthly meetings at Panera or on Zoom, this group has helped me to discover and develop my strengths as my fellow Leaguers do the same.

(Photo) Collecting roadside litter in Lancaster County as part of Victory League’s Adopt-a-Highway commitment.

I have a ton of creative hobbies, like painting, designing furniture, woodworking, jewelry-making, creative journaling, sewing, costume-making… my craft room is just about overflowing at this point!

I also enjoy documentaries, learning (about pretty much anything), singing, spending time outdoors, and hosting brunches.

(Photo) Here I am posing lovingly with my first woodworking project.

Thank you for visiting and for sticking around to learn more about me. Please reach out if I can help in any way.