We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Scott Proctor a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Scott, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry?

Corporate America often overcomplicates the creative process by relying on large, hierarchical teams with too many people. This can lead to inflated costs, difficulties in collaboration, and a dilution of the creative process.

I’ve learned that exceptional work is often produced by small, focused teams of highly skilled individuals. It’s not uncommon for there to be 15 people assigned to a project, but only two or three truly driving it forward. By streamlining the process and empowering key players, we can eliminate unnecessary layers.

This approach not only reduces costs but also fosters a more collaborative and innovative environment. By focusing on the specific needs and creative vision of a project, we can assemble the ideal team, regardless of organizational boundaries.

Some of the most innovative ideas, brands, and companies are born from a few key individuals working together towards a shared vision. You can achieve a lot when you have the right players on the team and give them the space to work their magic.

Scott, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hi, I’m Scott Proctor, a seasoned brand designer with over a decade of experience. I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the world’s most renowned brands, and I’m passionate about crafting distinctive visual identities that leave a lasting impression.

My work spans a wide range of creative disciplines, from crafting memorable brand identities and sleek websites to immersive digital experiences and captivating advertising campaigns. I believe in a timeless approach to design, rooted in a deep understanding of a brand’s essence. By stripping away the unnecessary, I create designs that are both modern and enduring. When i’m not working on a project, chances are i’m out surfing, riding dirt bikes, or learning something new.

I started my journey in the design world during my college years at the University of Oregon. My first venture was launching a small clothing brand, a humble beginning where I realized my passion for branding and design.

Today, I’m fortunate to lead Sea Street Studio, a boutique branding agency, and serve as the Director of Design at Imagine Learning, an innovative Ed-Tech company.

At the heart of my work is a commitment to helping people realize their creative vision. I find immense satisfaction working with ambitious entrepreneurs and established brands alike to bring their ideas to life through visual design.

One of my proudest achievements is a personal project, a children’s book titled “Alphabet of Waves,” created in collaboration with my talented partner, Rick Albano. This book celebrates the diversity of waves, from A to Z, and has been incredibly well-received by the surfing community.

I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of design, creating work that not only looks beautiful but also has a positive impact on the world. Whether you’re a small, locally-owned surf shop or a globally renowned brand, I’m here to help you bring your idea to life.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is that we get to make things for a living. Every day, we have the opportunity to shape perceptions, evoke emotions, and inspire action through our work. Whether it’s designing a brand identity for a local surf shop, creating a website for an innovative design agency or making playful illustrations for kids that are learning how to read.

It’s incredibly fulfilling to see your ideas come to life and witness the positive impact they have on businesses and individuals. The sense of accomplishment and play that comes from delivering creative work is truly unparalleled.

Beyond the professional rewards, the creative process itself is a source of immense joy. Immersing ourselves in a project, exploring new ideas, and pushing the boundaries of design is a deeply satisfying experience. It’s a privilege to be able to sit down and make things for a living and I am eternally grateful for all of the clients, agencies, and collaborators who’ve made that possible.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

In my experience, the most effective way to attract new clients is by consistently delivering good work and building strong relationships. When you build a reputation for reliability, creativity, and a client-first approach, word-of-mouth referrals become your most powerful marketing tool.

As clients move on to new roles or start their own ventures, they often remember the positive experiences they had working with you. This can lead to valuable referrals and new opportunities out of nowhere.

To maximize the impact of word-of-mouth, I focus on prioritizing client needs, exceeding expectations, and building strong relationships. While traditional marketing tactics can be helpful, the power of personal recommendations cannot be overstated. By consistently delivering exceptional work and building strong relationships, you can attract new clients and grow your business organically.

Another good strategy is to share your work online as you create it. This keeps you front of mind and allows people in your network to see what you’ve been up to. It’s not uncommon for people to forget what you do if you’re not sharing it… sometimes a gentle reminder goes a long ways. I’m always surprised at the number or job opportunities that come in after I share my work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://seastreet.studio/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scott_proctor_/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottproctordesign/

Image Credits

Mark McCambridge, Will Saunders,