Getting Started

We consider the design process a collaboration. With this approach we are able to present you with donor recognition ideas and design a donor wall that is as unique as you are.

Our design process consists of three primary steps:

Research- getting to know you and your organization - Through in person or phone conversations we attain a thorough understanding of your mission, your core philosophy and the practical aspects of what your organization does on a day-to-day basis. We discuss your recognition goals both short and long term. We assess the potential sites for your donor wall or work with the architect and landscape architect on a new build or remodel.
Preliminary sketches- drawing as a way to discuss your project- Rough draft sketches allow for an immediate dialogue about your donor wall project. We begin an exploration of preliminary symbols that represent your mission and a format that will help you achieve your recognition goals. This stage includes a rough cost estimate.
Detailed design and pricing- once we have found an idea that works for you we use CAD- Nina develops CAD (computer aided design) drawings as part of this phase. These can be manipulated and refined as feedback is received. The final image can have color added with photo shop if you choose to use it in a newsletter or mailing. This phase provides you with a full cost estimate. This phase has a small design fee associated with it to produce the CAD and photo shop drawings. Pricing information upon request.

Black and white CAD drawings (left) with photo shop color (right) - Click to enlarge

Finished Brochures - Click to enlarge

Laminating Your Design

A great idea for sharing the donor wall design is to have it printed at a large enough scale so your donors can write their name on the drawing with a dry erase marker when they make their commitment to your campaign. 1/3 or 1/2 scale are great options. Have the drawing laminated and tell the printer you want to use dry erase markers on it. Then have it mounted on gator board and bring it to all your events. Potential donors will see the names of other donors who have committed and will be inspired to write their name on the drawing.

Design Drawings - Click to enlarge

Magnetics

Projects often require the names to be added, changed, or moved.
We use neodymium magnets attached to the back of tiles so a blank tile can be replaced with a named tile. A small piece of metal is installed on the wall so the magnetic tile attaches easily. Some projects such as memorial walls change out names every year and this is easily done with magnetics. Neodymium magnets are referred to as rare earth magnets. They are the strongest type of permanent magnet commercially available.

Please contact info@donorrecognitionart.com for more information or call Nina at 520-275-5035.