Hi there, I’m Mara Korstanje Snape, a graphic designer & Illustrator, mum, and aspiring children’s book writer & illustrator.
THE GRAPHIC DESIGNER.
As a graphic designer, I enjoy problem-solving, not simply achieving visual accompaniment. I am experienced in visualising brands and communicating ideas in such a way that’s both beautiful and effective. I like to approach design in a way to ensure it contributes to achieving organisational goals that can be assessed both objectively and intuitively. I love to design across all marketing channels and count analogue alongside digital as vital in the design development process. This is when you’ll find me creating typography out of origami.
Before founding Paper Whale, I lead the Design House at a local branding agency, where I worked directly with clients to visualise brands in ways that are both aesthetically appealing and powerful. I took a multi-layered approach by channelling insight and strategy into designs that connect brand personality with audience motivation and aligns with the brand’s corporate style guide
As a freelance graphic designer, I take a brand-led and result-driven approach to create a well thought through design. Let me help by executing your vision with precision and through an excellent eye for detail. Send me an email at mara@paperwhale.com.au or go to the ‘say hello’ page.
“Mara from Paper Whale helped with my wedding stationery and also designed a few of my friend’s hens night invites. She is my go-to lady for all design related work! Every time her turnaround was quick, the price was great and the products exceeded my expectations! She really has a knack for understanding your requirements and vision and creating personalised and beautiful pieces. Thanks Mara for all of your help!”
Lynda Cooksley
THE MUM.
Meet my crew, William and Hannah. These two have made me find a new balance between Paper Whale and looking after two tiny humans. Running a freelance graphic design business as a mum of two young children requires effective time management. With ample planning and successfully managing different projects at once, I maintain a healthy work-life balance (most of the time).
“Beautiful invitations, with attention to detail! Lovely service, could not fault. Would definitely recommend!”
Kate Shelton
THE ASPIRING CHILDRENS BOOK WRITER & ILLUSTRATOR.
One of my dreams is to one day write and illustrate a children’s book. Follow me on instagram @paper.whale to follow my journey on fulfilling this ambition.
“Mara designed my engagement invites and she did such an amazing job. They were simple and beautifully crafted, exactly the way I wanted. Mara’s attention to detail and approachable and friendly manner made it an absolute delight working with her.”
Hasmig Achadjian