I began my graphic design career at Westgate Graphic Design of Oak Park, IL. Closing its doors in 1995, Westgate didn't make it through to the computer-dominated design industry, but I feel privileged to have worked with some very talented designers there.

A standout among Westgate's diverse range of clients was the wallcovering sample book clientele. That's where I got my start with designing, creating half size review comps of wallpaper sample book covers. Art and type were painted by hand, and later on designs were rendered by electronic means. When Westgate went out of business in 1995, I still had the opportunity to design for the same clients and have designed numerous sample books, as well as promotional collateral, for national wallcovering brands.

Since starting Carol Backe Creative, I've worked on a broad range of projects, including business to business and business to consumer. I think listening is the number one skill, listening so that the client and I can form the very best partnership to accomplish the goals for a particular project.