Awaken Creative studio is the brainchild of Maddi Waneka, that's me. I am a Chicago-based creative specializing in branding, graphic design, photography, and illustration. I have a keen eye for design and an attention to detail that translates into every aspect of my creative process.

Let's connect

very important stats

clients this year and counting

years of professional design experience

diet cokes consumed per project

highlights

LOGO + BRANDING

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY

ILLUSTRATION

services

logo & branding

Whether you're diving head first into a new business endeavor or you want to level up the look and feel of existing branding, I am dedicated to crafting a brand identity that authentically brings your business to life.

PHOTOGRAPHY

From product photography to events, portraits, and beyond, I will capture what matters most to you. I also specialize in Photoshop and am happy to retouch beauty shots or even remove your ex from a family photo.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Okay, so you've got an established brand *incoming Shania Twain reference* that don't impress me much. I'm kidding, that's great. From social media to menus to posters and packaging, I can design anything you need to enhance your brand presence.

ILLUSTRATION

Some projects require a hand-drawn illustration to feel just right. Whether you're getting married and want to add a personalized touch to your invitations or drink menus, or you're gifting someone a sentimental architectural illustration, I'll make sure it's just right.

client testimonials

Maddi is incredible! She listened to everything I had to say, took it, and turned my thoughts into a logo I could absolutely never come up with myself. She is creative, inventive, efficient, unique and I would recommend her to everyone. She truly loves what she does and cares about you and your brand!
nicole b.

What can I say about working with Maddi that properly expresses how she perfectly aced my logo? I had spent over a month or so working with 3 different designers on Fiverr. It was very frustrating. Everything felt rushed and like a template. Maddi hopped on the phone with me and let me speak from my heart. I did not know what I wanted in a logo. I knew little things that I liked about my old logo, but I had no vision. Every step Maddi took me through in the creative process made my soul come to life. I felt heard and understood. She free hand drew my logo. No template - fully unique and personal. Maddi also encouraged me to be bold and go with an icon choice I truly wanted, but was second guessing myself. I have received so many compliments from clients and other DJs in the 2 months I have launched my new logo and icon. Maddi is THE ONE, THE ONLY, and THE BEST!
DAWNA K.