Case Study: Branding, Web Design, and Event Director for Light Up Rothenberg
Client: Rothenberg Rooftop Garden
Project: Asset Re-Brand Light Up Rothenberg (Inaugural Event)
Role: Event Chair, Brand & Print Designer, Website Designer
Location: Over-the-Rhine (OTR), Cincinnati, OH
Goal: Raise $10,000 to support outdoor, curriculum-based learning experiences for local students
Overview
As the Rothenberg Rooftop Garden approached its first-ever Light Up Rothenberg event, the organization needed more than just a beautiful evening—it needed a powerful campaign to connect donors, engage the OTR community, and meet its $10,000 fundraising goal to support outdoor learning for local youth.
BallR Media led the full campaign experience—from creative direction to community outreach—ensuring the event’s visual identity, web presence, and narrative matched the passion behind the cause. In addition to serving as Event Chair, I led the creation of all print collateral, designed a custom event website, and guided the overall storytelling and engagement strategy.
Services Provided
Print Material Design: Invitations, sponsorship one-pagers, signage, event banners, branded thank-you cards
Website Design: Custom event page on Rothenberg’s website, including sponsorship tiers, donation flow, and storytelling sections
Event Strategy & Leadership: Oversaw planning logistics, sponsorship outreach, and vendor coordination as Event Chair
Fundraising Messaging: Crafted all public-facing copy and supporter communications, including social media, email, and physical mailers
Sponsor Integration: Designed branded touchpoints for event partners, including on-site recognition and program inclusion
Event Highlights
Event Name: Light Up Rothenberg
Location: Rothenberg Rooftop Garden, Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati
Purpose: To fund enhanced education experiences through the rooftop garden—combining science, reading, and math in a hands-on outdoor classroom
Results
$10,000 fundraising goal met and surpassed, supporting the 2024 garden education curriculum
More than 100 community members and supporters attended the inaugural event
Five corporate sponsors joined the initiative through customized sponsorship packages
Rothenberg received renewed visibility in the community, and garden educators are now expanding the curriculum to serve more students year-roundThe brand identity and event model can now be replicated annually for future donor engagement
Creative Strategy
1. Print Collateral & Identity:
I developed a cohesive visual system that reflected the vibrancy of the garden and the warmth of the community. Each touchpoint—from invitations to signage—conveyed the purpose and joy of the event.
2. Website & Donation Page:
I designed and implemented an easy-to-navigate event webpage on the Rothenberg Rooftop Garden website, where attendees could RSVP, donate, or sponsor. The page helped translate community momentum into action with clear CTAs and embedded donation tracking.
3. Event Execution & Leadership:
As Event Co-Chair, I worked cross-functionally with Rothenberg leadership, volunteers, and sponsors to ensure smooth execution. I oversaw run-of-show planning, vendor coordination, and attendee experience—all grounded in mission-aligned storytelling.
Community Impact
The Rothenberg Rooftop Garden provides immersive learning experiences that integrate academics with nature. Students explore science, math, reading, and environmental responsibility through gardening. Funds raised from Light Up Rothenberg directly supported new programming, garden maintenance, and seasonal supplies for students.
The event also fostered stronger neighborhood ties, engaged new donors, and showed what’s possible when creative strategy meets community purpose.