Bernie and Tara graduate with Bachelor of Design degrees (in Visual Communication) from the University of Alberta (U of A).

Bernie briefly works at an advertising agency, but moves on to the more welcoming culture of a small studio.

Tara continues to work at the same studio where she completed her student practicum, transitioning from a production position to full-time junior designer. Later that year she leaves this role to start freelancing, and starts to learn (the hard way) how to run a creative business.

Plumbheavy Design in incorporated.

2001

Like school but different

2002 – 2003

Still young

Bernie leaves his day job to dedicate more time and energy to Plumbheavy. 

Design work contracted to Plumbheavy is enough to sustain one salary, but not quite enough for two. Tara and Bernie both accept sessional teaching positions at the U of A, taking over instruction of a first year fundamentals course in the department of Art & Design. Together they rewrite course content and provide technical instruction on Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. 

2004 – 2005

Leap of faith

The hustle continues as Tara and Bernie work to build a reputation for Plumbheavy. Their network is growing and client base continues to expand. 

They lease studio space in a charming historic building in downtown Edmonton. 

They add one of their top students as their first full-time employee to help with design production. 

2006

Acting like an adult

A senior designer is added and there are now a total of four salaries on the payroll.

The client list continues to grow.

2007 – 2010

Growth

The net is cast wide as they aim for the broadest range of experience possible. Subcontracting writers, photographers, illustrators and developers allows them to expand the range of services offered, and positions them to take on projects with a broader scope and larger budgets. 

In addition to Tara and Bernie, there are between two and three full-time designers on staff during this time, plus a part-time project manager.

With a continued growth the need for larger studio space is required. They negotiate a lease on a 1,500 sq. ft. studio and renovate to suit their needs.

2011

Take time

Tara takes a six month leave to refuel her creativity and restore some energy.

Bernie manages the studio, client relationships, and staff.

2012 – 2016

Holding steady

2016 – 2017

Pioneers of remote workspace

2019

Back to basics

2020 - 2021

All grown up