Meet Lara Russo of Yay! Graphic Design in N. Aurora/Lowry/Stapleton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lara Russo.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Lara. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Sure! I moved to Denver from New York ten years ago – at the time, I was working as the Managing Director of a hospitality art consulting firm. Sadly, the owner, Renee Fotouhi – a prominent NYC art dealer and consultant – passed away just about a year later. Her passing at the young age of 50 affected me deeply and reminded me that life is short. Just like that, I knew that I wanted to work for myself. I had managed every facet of her business and from that experience, knew that I wanted to serve specifically women-owned small businesses. I have been operating some version of my current business since that time, but have been full-time with a mission statement crafted to service specifically women-owned small business for about eight years (and one re-brand) now. I am a mom to an amazing little boy, and the flexibility of my career allows me to be available for him. It has not been an easy ten years, but it’s all led me to where I am today, energized and excited to serve my niche of the small business community in Denver and beyond.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not been a smooth road. However my clients and my love for what I do has always floated up to the surface to remind me that if I work hard, stay organized, and just take one more step, I can get through.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Yay! Graphic Design – what should we know?
My business is Yay! Graphic Design, and I specialize in branding, graphics, and web work for women-owned small businesses. I am known for my adaptable and clean style, hand-drawn graphics, and attention to detail. I am most proud that I have served over 400 women-owned small businesses since I decided to work for myself full time. I’m different because I care, I have an eagle eye, and a great sense of style.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
There are too many people to count. From close friends, family members, and business acquaintances – everyone has impacted my business because they have impacted ME. Specifically, my sister is my moral compass, my dad is my business role model, my mom fuels me with artistic inspiration, and my son motivates me to always be the best version of myself. My best friend (and best critic) also holds a special role in my perseverance as a designer – I know I will always get an honest answer from a discerning eye. My partner motivated me to infuse “more of myself” into my business, which sparked a rebrand I could not be happier about several years ago.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://yaygraphicdesign.com
• Phone: 7204412736
• Email: [email protected]

Image Credit:
Main headshot: Nari Ro Photography

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