The Roanoke Regional Partnership offers a summer program that allows employers to integrate new hires into the region, while also developing the core competencies that prepare them for their careers. At the end of the 8-week program, attendees are given a care package of items that represent the area. They reached out to Playwell Bricks to see about a custom set that represented the Roanoke, VA (U.S.A.) region to include in this package.

During their discovery call, the contact from Get2KnowNoke advised Playwell of the different elements that represent their area. They explained about a massive star on Mill Mountain that was first illuminated in 1949 and grew to represent what was later nicknamed Star City. Then there were the Blue Ridge Mountains and the outdoor adventure aspects of the area, all of which they’d ideally see reflected in their custom set.

They also mentioned something fun and functional, like a business card holder for these new professionals. The idea developed from there, with a card holder “showing an overview of the city, with the star and the blue mountains behind,” explained Playwell Bricks designer Jared Oswald.

“The client sent over a reference that was realistic,” Jared tells me. From that reference, he created the first concept and sent it to the client.

“Could we refine it?” the client asked. They wanted to see more “small, playful elements to make the design feel more fun. We want the giftees (aged 18-26) to open this and get excited about this tchotchke. How can we make it pop?”

“They then sent over something much more animated looking,” Jared recalls. He retooled the concept to capture the feeling of this new reference, and “the client immediately accepted the second version.” After a single colour edit, this model went into production.

“We love our custom sets from Playwell Bricks!” says Michelle Williams of Roanoke Regional Partnership.

Jared loved it too. “There’s a whimsical charm to this project that just makes me smile. I have one on my desk,” he adds with a smile.

Whether your company is putting together an onboarding package, team or client gift, Playwell Bricks is here to help you build well, brand well, and gift well. Contact us to book your discovery call today!