Chelsea Jones, Business Designer
My interest in business and design started early, growing up in a family of entrepreneurs and spending time studying, writing about, and observing how small businesses grow in real-world contexts.
Over time, I moved from studying businesses to building them. I’ve now launched three ventures, starting with corporate communications consulting, then building two footwear brands in the U.S. and Canada. Working across design, development, communications, and retail required wearing multiple hats and gave me a close-up view of how businesses function and the challenges entrepreneurs face.
This led me to pursue a Master’s in Product Design & Development Management at Northwestern University, where I deepened my understanding of design thinking. It also clarified a key insight: when founders don’t fully empathize with what customers value most, it influences all areas of the business and can gradually weaken it over time.
Today, I help entrepreneurs align how their business is structured, communicated, and experienced so it better serves both their customers and their goals.
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me with a good coffee, on a forest trail, reading, or planning my next adventure.
Capabilities & Expertise
Messaging & Communications
Developed and executed B2B and B2C communications programs across marketing, investor relations, and PR. Combined strategy, storytelling, and data-driven insights to help companies connect with audiences and drive growth.
Websites & Digital Experience
Designed and managed websites that work seamlessly and connect with the right audience. Planned site layouts, mapped customer journeys, wrote copy, and built solutions on Shopify and WordPress. Directed lifestyle and product photography, creating versatile assets for digital, print, and social platforms to showcase products and drive engagement.
Spaces & Environments
Designed retail and residential environments, including home offices and interiors, tradeshow booths, and event spaces that brought stories to life and connected with audiences. Led the creation and management of a retail store in Chicago, blending product and customer experience into a cohesive, inviting space.
Products & Services
Led the end-to-end design and development of women’s footwear, focusing on innovation, functionality, and exceptional customer experience. Designed and managed products from concept to production in Brazil and Colombia, honing the ability to deliver high-quality solutions that resonate with customers and bring ideas to life with clarity, purpose, and style.