Gretchen Cherrill, President/Owner, Airpark Signs & Graphics
(While not a designer, Cherrill’s architectural signage company caters to the design community).
Years in IIDA Southwest: 15
Q: Why did you get involved with IIDA?
A: I joined after a client invited me to the PRIDE Awards. And I can say no one in attendance could have been more proud than me. Many of the award winners were projects we had worked on.
Q: How important to the success of your business is your involvement with IIDA?
A: I think our success in business is, in large part, due to the make-up of our clients, many of whom are designers. And not to say that designers are demanding necessarily, but the projects that go on to win IIDA awards do demand excellence. This simple fact has made us all better at what we do here.
Q: What activities do you enjoy most as an IIDA member?
A: I enjoy all the activities I engage in mostly because over the years I’ve made dear friends in the organization and anytime we can get together, I consider this a bonus. But I have to say “Couture” is a great event. Of course I’ve attended as a spectator but we’ve also participated which has given me a true appreciation for what goes into a fashion show. Long, long hours not only designing but constructing a garment for a competition, but just so worth it to see your model on the runway.
Q: Was there an “aha moment” when you realized being in IIDA was invaluable?
A: There have been many “aha moments.” IIDA attracts the best of the best in the design field so to be selected for this section as an IIDA representative is truly an honor.
