Xeno Design, Inc. • Marketing Communications
1981 – 1991
We became official in May 1981 when Patti and I cut the ties to previous jobs and went independent. I was a corporate Art Director at Playboy Enterprises and Patti, a Program Coordinator at the American Medical Association in Graduate Medical Evaluation.
The word “Xeno” means stranger or foreigner, and some definitions include “exotic.” At the time, in Chicago, in 1981, it felt right. Still does. The logo was designed that spring and has been consistent.
Before I go any further, I must thank our clients for trusting and supporting us over the years. The trust factor in a designer/client relationship is essential for success.
Join us in an overview of 30 years starting with…
Portfolio samples: 1981-1991
Chicago studio: 900 N. Franklin Street, 1985-1989
Thanks to all, Chris & Patti Garland
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(Above) On location at the Chicago South Shore Country Club (now the South Shore Cultural Center) for Celebrate in Chicago, Mayor’s Office of Special Events, 1986.
Photo: Francois Robert
1991 – 2001
In 1989 we downsized and decided to move out of Chicago. New York or L.A? – that was the question. We chose L.A. Xeno landed in midtown/Larchmont Village… later, bought a home in the San Fernando Valley, and lived/worked there until 2003. For us, highlights of the ’90s were joining the L.A. Art Directors Club Board of Directors, working with numerous clients in the music products industry (NAMM, Remo, Percussion Marketing Council, Kellar Bass, etc.) and being there on the scene contributing to the early growth of the Internet.
Photos were taken between 1990 and 1992: (1) HOW magazine, photo: Gary Garnick, (2) Xeno Design: the Move West, Flash magazine, photo: Bill Robbins, (3) ADLA annual advertising and design competition
2001 – 2011
2003-2005 could be called the age of Earth Mothers and Bliss Kitchen. To fulfill a long running dream to try the restaurant business, we moved from LA back to Chicago in 2003 and opened Earth Mothers cafe at 738 N. Wells Street, in the River North neighborhood. It was an amazing experience for us that ran through 2004 and evolved into Bliss Kitchen, a personal/private cheffing and consulting business. Xeno Design became our focus again in 2006 after we returned to Southern California.
Many thanks, again, to our clients for working with us on this life adventure. Today, we’re doing very well, happy and productive, living and working in Palm Desert, California.
Photo: Joshua Grenrock, 2001