Get to know Talayah Goodlow, the creative behind Lightly Salted Productions, and her vision for bringing Sunnyfest to life on Chicago’s Southside this August.

Tell me a little about yourself.

I am a Chicago native, born and raised on the south side of the city. I am a creative at heart, and my need to express myself started in my writing and progressed to graphic design. My draw to volunteering and giving back to the community led me down the path of event planning where I was able to utilize these skills.

What is your background that led you to start Sunnyfest?

I have a BFA in Graphic Design & Advertising from Columbus College of Art & Design in Columbus, OH and my MBA in Marketing from Saint Xavier University. My jobs have ranged from working in the government and city sectors and now in association work where I work primarily in marketing. Being in roles that were community facing allowed me to see the need and lack of resources in certain areas and how the power of being exposed to new things could change that. Sunnyfest is an answer to that lack.

Tell us more about Sunnyfest.

Sunnyfest is my official business launch where I get to showcase what my company does in real time. It is the stamp of approval to myself and a reminder that the sun is always shinning even in hardship. Like any other enterpenuer I've had my ups and downs and taking that leap of faith to officially launch my business was a battle in itself.

Tell us more about your business, Lightly Salted Productions.

We orchestrate purposeful events for corporations and organizations to enhance team dynamics and company culture while making a tangible difference in the communities they serve.

What are some of your short and long term goals?

My short tearm goals for Sunnyfest is for it to gain traction and build anticipation for the next years to follow. The long term goal is for Sunnyfest to become an international fest that tours across cites, states, and countries to spread the sunshine to all by exposing them to new cultures and experiences. These events will also highlight the local charm of the communities in which they are held.

What is a favorite project you've done?

I have been curating events for over 10 years, and some of my favorites to create would have to be the annual youth fashion show I used to host, along with a new series I started last year of family fitness days.

How would you describe the process of working with Lettering Works to establish your new logo for Sunnyfest? Being a designer yourself, what did you enjoy most?

I really enjoyed the process of working with Lettering Works! As a designer it can be hard to create for yourself as you get lost in your thoughts and usually end up nowhere or creating something that you are never really satisfied with. Lettering Works took all the pressure and stress of designing off my plate by listening to my vision and while being patient enough to adapt my creative direction into making something of her own. The perfect blend resulted in a logo that embodies what I saw Sunnyfest to be: fun, lively, inviting, and appealing to all ages.

What value have you received from your logo?

This logo has allowed my event to get noticed in many ways as it draws others in to want to inquire more about it.

Why do you think small business owners should invest in branding their business and events?

It's no secret that people are drawn to the "glitz and glamour" and your brand is a way of making your business shine. Your brand tells your story and conveys the who, what, and why of your business. Investing in your branding is one of the wisest investments you could make to set you up for success.

Find more about Talayah, Lightly Salted Productions, and Sunnyfest at the event page, Facebook or Instagram.