Where Cricket Meets Creativity and Community
As Essex County Cricket Club's opener, Nick Browne, celebrated his testimonial year, we were thrilled to conceptualize and craft a unique commemorative brochure. This brochure is more than just a tribute to Nick's career—it also supports charitable causes, benefitting the Ruth Strauss Foundation and The Cricketers’ Trust.
Creating Connections Through Recommendations
This exciting journey began with a stellar recommendation. Carl Fuller, from the Institute of Directors, introduced us to Adam Overton, the mastermind behind Nick’s testimonial events. With our own cricket aficionado, Neil "Foz" Foster, enthusiastically on board, we dived in headfirst.
From Concept to Completion
Our creative process ignited with a collaborative meeting—Adam, Nick, Neil, and I as the lead designer—where we outlined our vision. The client shared a previous brochure they admired, providing a guide that was both useful and inspiration for creating Nick’s distinct brand narrative.
Initially, we considered a spot-foiled cover, but time constraints led us to a pragmatic yet stylish choice: a soft-touch, anti-scuff laminated cover complemented by premium, sustainable Inspira paper—a touch of elegance and sustainability.
Setting the Stage for Success
Working backward from the delivery deadline, we meticulously devised a strategy and timeline. This 60+ page brochure had to be designed, reviewed, and litho-printed rapidly, though initial content was limited.
We allocated sections for pre-arranged sponsor adverts and created multiple design prototypes to secure early client approval, forming a confident foundation for final content integration.
Blending Creativity with Technology
The brochure featured heartfelt stories, candid images, a playful “Top Trumps”-style page, and a dynamic Q&A with Nick. Contributions from teammates and coaches offered diverse voices, needing careful editorial attention.
AI tools played a subtle yet crucial role—from crafting catchy headlines to enhancing image quality—freeing more time for human ingenuity to shine through.
Even the sponsor’s advert on the prestigious back cover benefited from AI creativity, delivering a cricket-themed message with effortless wit. The result was perfection.
The Final Word: A Collective Achievement
Nick visited Formara to personally collect the finished brochures, capturing a moment that became our most-liked Instagram post. These beautifully crafted brochures are available on Nick's official site (nickbrowne25.com), with proceeds advancing two inspiring charities.
Nick Browne pictured proudly outside Formara HQ, supporting the Ruth Strauss Foundation and The Cricketers’ Trust with his printed testimonial brochure.
Wrapping It Up
This project transcended an initial design challenge, celebrating a cricketing legacy and epitomizing the power of modern, collaborative creativity facilitated by smart technology.
Looking to create an exceptional brochure or publication for your own cause? Be it sport, charity, or anything else, we're eager to tell your story. Let's connect!
