I thought it was high time to get a proper logo for Out and Out. Who else but to enlist but my partner who’s a talented illustrator?

I found the evolution of the logo fascinating, and wanted to share.

The original direction for the logo was no direction at all. I think I said something like, “go crazy.”

Here are the initial sketches Jay came up with:

Pretty cool, right? Then we narrowed it down to the first two. A mock-up was ready to send.

I was warned with this question, however: “How gay did you wanna go?”

“Very gay,” I said.

“OK, because this is very, very gay.”

Here’s the first file I was sent with the logo:

I… I…

I didn’t know what to say. “What about the other design?”

“Oh, that one’s coming along, too. Want to see the sketches?”

In the bedroom, taped onto the wall, were sketches done with India ink on paper. I immediately loved it.

Then I started overthinking it. It might be too “Paris” or something. But the letters and drawing worked so well together, I didn’t mind. It was loose and a little imperfect, but evocative and simple. Perfect.

Here were the sketches:

“What would be the next step?” I asked.

“To scan it in and color it. Fix the lines.”

I couldn’t wait to see it. A few days later, it was ready.

Here is the logo for Out and Out, as illustrated by my wonderful partner:

Isn’t that SO COOL? I love it!

With the logo made, I gave the site a total refresh. And now, after a year, am finally finding my footing and tone with the blog.

Cheers, you guys, to another year. And yes, expect a trip report from Paris sometime in 2014. 😉

Thank you thank you to all my readers! You guys are the best!

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