Neon Sign Design

UpNorth Distribution wanted more than a logo on a wall—they envisioned a neon sign that would capture their brand’s vibrant spirit while evoking the nostalgic charm of old-school craftsmanship. They turned to me to design and coordinate production of a custom piece that would serve as a visual centerpiece at one of their partner dispensaries.

As a freelance designer and project manager, I led the design process, vendor sourcing, and production oversight—delivering a glowing statement piece that strengthens UpNorth’s in-store brand experience.

Creating a custom neon sign came with unique challenges:

• Translate UpNorth’s brand identity into a traditional glass-tube neon format
• Preserve visual clarity and logo integrity in an intricate, hand-shaped medium
• Source a vendor with true old-school craftsmanship and reliability
• Ensure durability for a long-lasting, high-traffic retail environment

It was critical to balance artistic flair with technical execution—especially when dealing with fragile materials like neon glass.

I approached the project with a focus on authenticity and precision:

• Design Adaptation:
  Refined UpNorth’s brand elements into a neon-friendly layout without losing identity strength.
• Vendor Sourcing:
  Identified a master neon craftsman in Los Angeles specializing in high-end, hand-bent glass neon signage.
• Production Management:
  Oversaw the design-to-production process, including materials selection, color matching, and logistical coordination for delivery to Northern California.

The final sign captured the boldness of the UpNorth brand—while honoring the traditional neon craft.

The finished neon sign:

• Became a visual centerpiece at a local dispensary, attracting customers and reinforcing brand presence
• Delivered a nostalgic-yet-modern brand experience
• Strengthened UpNorth’s visual identity in a competitive retail environment
• Demonstrated UpNorth’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality

The glowing signage now draws customers into the space—serving as a beacon for UpNorth’s premium product line.

“We wanted a statement piece that paid homage to the nostalgic art of neon while representing our brand’s energy. Andrew nailed it—handling everything from design to production with absolute precision. Our custom neon sign has become a standout feature of our dispensary presence.”
— Geoffrey Hoopes, CEO, UpNorth Distribution