The organization I interned with was a banquet furniture manufacturer called Lion’s Wood. They specialize in crafting elegant and functional furniture pieces for the food service industry. Their commitment to blending creativity with functionality resonated with me. They are known for their attention to detail and innovative designs that elevate event spaces. The journey began when I discovered this internship opportunity through MICA Network. After thorough research and preparation, I applied and successfully secured the position.
Throughout the internship, the marketing director guided and mentored me. Her expertise in the field, coupled with her willingness to share insights, played a pivotal role in shaping my learning experience.
My responsibilities were diverse and hands-on. I learned positions within the company, gained insights into their business model, and dived into the fascinating world of link boxes and induction. I had the opportunity to create new spec sheets for the company's bars and serving carts, which involved formatting and attention to detail. Additionally, I undertook the task of editing photos to align with customer design options, contributing to the visual consistency of the brand. Crafting labels for sample materials enhanced my communication skills, as these materials were intended for customers and clients. One of the highlights was adding technical drawings to spec sheets, enriching my understanding of furniture design.
Among the projects I was involved in, I am particularly proud of the collaboration with the marketing team. I helped refine the visual elements of marketing materials, ensuring they accurately portrayed the essence of the furniture pieces. My biggest takeaway from this internship was realizing the importance of holistic collaboration within a creative organization. Effective communication between different departments is vital to ensure that the design concepts are translated accurately.This experience expanded my skill set significantly. I honed my technical proficiency in Photoshop and LightRoom software, developed a keen eye for design aesthetics, and enhanced my ability to adapt to the evolving needs of a dynamic industry. Furthermore, my exposure to the small business work structure provided valuable insights into the importance of agility and adaptability.
The internship has clarified my career goals by reaffirming my passion for product design within the furniture industry. It highlighted the significance of attention to detail, creativity, and collaboration in bringing ideas to life. As I move forward, I am excited to pursue a career that seamlessly blends my design skills with my newfound insights into business operations.