Cheers to 40 Years

Written By

Willoughby Design

Category

Behind the Scenes

Posted On

08.01.18

40 Years of Design Poster #1 - Willoughby Design
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40 Years of Design Poster #8 - Willoughby Design

1978 was a good year.

“Boogie Oogie Oogie” was a Top Ten hit, The Star Wars Holiday Special was on television and everyone flocked to see Jaws 2 wearing the latest in disco fashion. Then they went home to their Harvest Gold kitchens and shag carpet to drink strawberry daiquiris.

1978 was a bit of a creative train wreck.

BUT THEN…

Ann Willoughby showed the world that a woman could single-handedly launch a design firm. She did it from home, with two small children, two clients and the smarts to stay away from Harvest Gold.

That was 40 years ago and you’re reading this because Willoughby Design is now the oldest design firm founded by a woman in the United States.  We’ve gone from a dining room table to a building filled with designers, writers, account managers, web developers, strategists and dogs. We work with national brands and local favorites, non-profits and pet projects. And the vision has been passed along from one to many and continues to prosper under the leadership of a second generation of homegrown owner/employees.

Thanks to our clients, thanks to our friends, thanks to our families. Thanks for believing in us.

Here’s to 40 more years.