Project Summary
Taste of Kahuna was a company fundraiser centered around food, competition, and connection. I helped lead the event from concept to execution, culminating in a professionally designed printed cookbook and online sales platform that extended the fundraiser beyond a single day.

The Challenge
The goal was to create an engaging fundraising event that would:

• Bring employees together

• Encourage participation through a recipe competition

• Generate meaningful funds beyond ticket sales

• Leave a lasting, tangible product tied to the event

The challenge was turning a live event into a cohesive brand experience — and transforming submitted recipes into a polished, market-ready cookbook.

My Role
I played a dual role in both event execution and creative production:

• Co-led event planning and on-site coordination

• Collected and organized all competition recipe submissions

• Designed all the forms and marketing materials for the event

• Designed and produced the printed cookbook

• Established and managed the cookbook’s online sales platform

• Oversaw production to ensure quality and brand consistency

The Approach
Event + Brand Alignment
I developed a cohesive visual direction for Taste of Kahuna that carried from event materials into the cookbook design.
Content Organization
I standardized and formatted all submitted recipes for clarity and consistency, ensuring a professional editorial structure.
Cookbook Design
The cookbook was designed to feel elevated yet approachable — balancing strong typography, clean layouts, and organized sections for easy use. Print production was carefully managed to ensure durability and high-quality finishing.
Digital Extension
To maximize fundraising impact, I created and managed an online sales platform, allowing the cookbook to generate continued revenue after the event.

The Solution
A fully integrated fundraising campaign that included:

• A successfully executed live culinary competition event

• A professionally designed and printed cookbook

• A streamlined online sales system

• A cohesive visual identity across touchpoints

The cookbook became both a keepsake and a revenue driver — extending the life of the event and reinforcing employee involvement.

Results & Impact

• Successful event turnout and company engagement

• Increased fundraising through post-event cookbook sales

• Positive participant feedback

• A scalable model for future fundraising initiatives

This fundraiser brought in more than $400 allowing the Kahuna Kares Foundation to purchase more than 100 backpacks for foster children.