WICKER PARK — Though a local branding firm does most of its work online, the owners of Nicer Design have opened an office along Ashland Avenue and announced the philosophy behind their new digs with a Chinese Proverb: "A man without a smiling face must not open shop."
Since being installed earlier this month, the proverb — prominently displayed in the window of Nicer Design's storefront at 1361 N. Ashland Ave. — has piqued curiosity from passersby.
"It's all about being nicer working together and being friendly and happy about what you are doing. Most branding firms don't have a storefront. We love that people will be able to walk in," said Eric Cheeseman, 35, co-owner of Nicer Design.
Cheeseman, who has been working out of his home for almost eight years, said he was looking for office space because the firm he founded in 2009 with Logan Square-based business partner Steve Hahn was growing.
"We want to be together. When you see each other face-to-face, it helps with working, you are nicer to each other, too," Cheeseman said.
So on Oct. 1, Cheeseman and Hahn signed a lease. Currently there are just four desks and a lot of open space in the bright and airy storefront, though the view of the street is hidden by the proverb pasted over the window.
Cheeseman said the proverb will be removed once the storefront is open, likely by Thanksgiving.
Nicer Design offers marketing and graphic design services and branding, Cheeseman said.
When asked about hours of operation, Cheeseman said he keeps "creative hours" but will try to keep the shop open at least from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during traditional business hours.
Follow updates on Nicer Design's Facebook page or on its website.
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