Author: Elizabeth Willis

Google Analytics certification

Posted on by Elizabeth Willis

On February 9, I successfully completed the Google Analytics certification from Google Skillshop. This course covers the latest developments in Google Analytics 4, teaching everything from how to set up GA4 properties and start collecting data to using reports to analyse audiences and track conversions. I took this course to develop my skills in GA, having previously used Universal Analytics to monitor website data. I find it fascinating the level of insight that Google Analytics can produce, particularly when combined with the power of software like Google Ads and Search Ads 360.

Lazy Lizard – Brand Guidelines

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In January 2024, I created new brand guidelines for my vintage skiwear brand, Lazy Lizard.

I started my brand in February 2020 after I finished my ski season. I love the bright, crazy patterns of 80s and 90s skiwear – the ski slopes are one of the only places you can go completely wild with your outfit and no one bats an eye! Although many vintage shops and brands are in the market, I noticed a gap for a brand specialising in skiwear.

Running my own brand is a fantastic hobby and creative outlet for me. I can practice my skills in marketing and branding, and test new ideas by making my own decisions. It’s also a way for me to make a profit from my second-hand shopping addiction!

RHS Shows creative assets

Posted on by Elizabeth Willis

In preparation for the RHS Shows in 2024, I designed volunteer name badge templates for each of the four shows. These templates were made to fit each show’s brand guidelines, and can be personalised with volunteer’s names.

I also designed a poster for the RHS Show Exhibitor team to promote their Code of Conduct for exhibitors. I created this in the All Shows brand, so that it could be saved and reused at all the 2024 shows.

Hyde Hall Autumn Photoshoot 2023

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In October, I visited RHS Garden Hyde Hall for the first time, attending the autumn lifestyle photoshoot on behalf of the Brand team. It was my first time working with a freelance photographer on an RHS photoshoot, so it was important to communicate our brand style and make sure we got the images we needed.

It’s a privilege to be able to visit all of the gardens in person; but it’s also crucial to understanding each garden’s personality, marketing opportunities and challenges. I was particularly excited to see the Dry Garden, the Australia and New Zealand Garden and the new cactus border – each of which benefit from Hyde Hall’s unique climate.

RHS Lindley Library creative assets

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I designed several branded assets for the RHS Lindley Library team in London to help them transition to the new RHS brand. I created an open/closed sign for them and a poster explaining their opening hours. I also designed a sticker for the instant payment machine, to help fund more donations to the Lindley Library. These assets were designed using the main RHS brand.

Harlow Carr Summer Lifestyle Photoshoot 2023

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In August 2023, I had the exciting opportunity to visit RHS Garden Harlow Carr for the first time for the summer lifestyle photoshoot. In preparation, I had organised two groups of professional models to attend for a half-day shoot each. Our aim was to capture the seasonal colour in the garden, and show the garden as an excellent day out for families, friends and couples. The photoshoot was a huge success, and we captured lots of amazing images to use in future summer campaigns for Harlow Carr!

Managing Teams – LinkedIn Learning

Posted on by Elizabeth Willis

On 18 August 2023, I successfully completed LinkedIn Learning’s ‘Managing Teams’ course. The short, online classes cover the key principles of people management, providing practical techniques for driving performance by inspiring and motivating your team. 

The emphasis on trust, accountability and clear communication as a manager strongly resonated with me. These principles mirror the key elements of the most successful teams I have been part of, and I have highly valued working under managers with these qualities.

Studying this course has given me a well-rounded foundation for leading successful teams in a professional setting. I’m looking forward to opportunities to apply my skills and knowledge in future!

Leadership Foundations – LinkedIn Learning

Posted on by Elizabeth Willis

On 2 August 2023, I successfully completed LinkedIn Learning’s ‘Leadership Foundations’ short course. This comprehensive programme covered essential skills including influencing teams, motivational leadership, effective communication, empathy and resilience, and agile response to change.

By studying the course, I have strengthened my leadership capabilities and unlocked new levels of confidence and professionalism as a manager. I feel more empowered to inspire teams and tackle future challenges with a strategic and empathetic approach. 

RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 2023

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To finish off 2023’s show season, I visited RHS Flower Show Tatton Park – the RHS’s northern show. The show is located within the picturesque grounds of Tatton Park, on the outskirts of Knutsford Village in Cheshire. After such changeable weather, I was lucky to attend on a beautiful, sunny day!

As with the other three shows, it was my responsibility to collate and record all our branded touchpoints at the show, from the entrance gates to flags, trade stands to catering venues. Our new RHS brand looked fantastic on site, particularly the vibrant green show medals for the award-winning gardens. 

I collated the images into a comprehensive presentation to share with our shows, brand and design teams. Our feedback will be used to improve and refine the show next year to give our visitors the best experience and strengthen the identity and recognition of the RHS Brand.

It was a huge privilege to be able to attend all four RHS Shows this year. I am now looking forward to visiting the rest of the RHS Gardens, including Harlow Carr at the end of August.

RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2023

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In the second week of July, I attended two days of RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. I’d been to the show with my family several years ago, so it was exciting to visit again and see how it has changed. 

Of all the RHS Shows, Hampton Court is my favourite. The festival atmosphere is more relaxed, and I found the show gardens full on inspiration for my garden at home. This year’s RHS Horticultural Hero was Carol Klein; she designed a stunning garden with views over the palace. Having watched her prepare on BBC Gardener’s World, it was a huge privilege to be able to see her garden almost empty, first thing in the morning on Press Day!

Before the show opening to the public, we ran a photoshoot with a group of professional models, to capture the essence of the show. In the weeks prior, I’d liaised with our model agency contacts to source and hire the models for the shoot. I created and shared a wardrobe brief, agenda and logistical information with my colleagues and the models, to make sure the photoshoot ran to schedule.

On the first official day of the festival, I was part of a small team assisting our photographer with capturing members of the general public enjoying the show. We scouted willing members of the public to be photographed, making sure we obtained everyone’s consent with model release forms.

While on site, I was also responsible for capturing and recording all our branded touchpoints at the show. Using my images, I created a comprehensive presentation to share with our shows, brand and design teams, gathering feedback and areas for improvement for each department.