Priority Marketing employs 65+ professionals whose areas of expertise span public relations, brand development, web services, social media, creative services, media buying, video production, digital marketing, event planning and more.
Want to learn more about these talented creatives and how they approach their craft?
Agency Access is a monthly feature that gives clients and partners a little insight into our dynamic team. This month, Christi Finger is sharing her thoughts.
Name: Christi Finger
Job Title: Senior Art Director
Previous role at Priority Marketing: Graphic Designer
Agency Access Q&A
What first drew you to Priority Marketing?
“Priority Marketing was recommended to me by a local printer shortly after I moved to Fort Myers in 2003. I was freelancing at the time, and the printer, who was impressed with my work, told me I needed to connect with Teri Hansen at Priority Marketing, calling it the best agency in the area. When I interviewed with Teri, I was immediately drawn to her genuine kindness, charisma and style. I knew right away that this was where I belonged. At the time, I was a young mother to a 3-year-old, and she graciously allowed me to work from home, long before that was common. I had no idea then how much Teri and Priority Marketing would shape my life. The opportunity to work here is one I will never take for granted. It remains the best decision I have ever made, and I am deeply grateful for the many years of friendship and mentorship.”
Your team’s designs have won many awards. What makes a design stand out?
“Our team of seven designers have the privilege of working with many outstanding companies and nonprofits in our community, each with its own unique story and mission. When organizations partner with us and place their trust in our team, it creates the creative freedom that truly elevates the work and strengthens the final result. There is no greater honor than using design to make a meaningful impact, whether that’s helping a small business grow or supporting a charity event that raises critical funds for a cause that truly matters. I am deeply passionate about creating effective campaigns and helping brands shine. For me, every design job feels personal. From the first idea to the final piece, there’s an emotional investment, almost like watching something grow from nothing. When it’s finally released into the world, it feels a bit like watching a child take its first steps. That level of dedication, passion and love for transforming simple ideas (black letters on a page) into something powerful and meaningful is what truly makes a design stand out.”
Which do you enjoy more, and why – designing the first logo for a new business or creating a new logo for an existing brand?
“Logos can be tricky because they are deeply personal. I love the creative process. Once it begins, ideas tend to pour out of me, and I often have to rein them in. There’s something incredibly exciting about the endless opportunity to explore, experiment and build something from nothing. At the same time, a logo reflects how someone wants to be seen by the world and capturing that into an icon or typeface isn’t always easy. Helping clients uncover and articulate that identity is an important part of the process. Whether it’s a brand-new business or an established one, the same care, research and passion go into the process. Each project brings its own challenges and rewards, and that’s what makes logo design so fun and fulfilling.”
How does color psychology impact your designs?
“Color is my favorite ‘design tool.’ Many of the pieces I design have a strong use of color, but I usually start in black and white. My belief is that if a design works in black and white, it will only become stronger once color is introduced. I understand that colors carry meaning, but research is key, especially since many industries become oversaturated with the same palettes. Our goal is to give our clients thoughtful color positioning that not only represents their industry, but also helps them stand out from the competition.”
What has been your most memorable or significant project at Priority Marketing?
“Over the past 22 years, I’ve been fortunate to work on many incredible projects, but a few stand out. My long-standing relationship with Norman Love Confections has been especially rewarding. Working alongside Teri to shape the brand, from photography and packaging to everything in between, since its early days and watching it grow into what it is today has been truly thrilling. I also loved partnering for many years with SWFL Wine & Food Fest alongside Randy Darrow and Palm Printing. Randy’s generosity in donating his time and expenses allowed us unlimited creative freedom, resulting in nationally award-winning work year after year. It was a lot of fun and extremely rewarding to make such an impact on the benefactors of SWFL Children’s Charities. More recently, our team collaborated with the Lee County Fertilizer Education & Outreach Program on the ‘Gnome Matter What’ campaign, which encourages summer residents to stop lawn fertilization during rainy season to protect local waterways. It was a true team effort across all departments, and it was a lot of fun getting to work side‑by‑side with my son, Marcus, in the video department on animation. Bringing this award‑winning and effective campaign to life was especially meaningful.”
