About 💎

we don’t sell design.
We SELL CLARITY.

Welcome to Gem City Creative — a strategy-first branding and design studio dedicated to helping mission-driven businesses grow with clarity, confidence, and a visual presence that truly represents who they are. We partner with purpose-led brands across the U.S. to build identities that inspire loyalty, spark connection, and position them for long-term success. If you’re looking for a creative partner who brings both heart and strategy to the table, you’re in the right place.

Meet the Team

  • Chris Schroeder

    FOUNDER

    Hey, I’m Chris Schroeder, Founder and Senior Designer at Gem City Creative. Before launching GCC in 2021, I spent over a decade as a full-time graphic designer and illustrator at Schroeder Creations, while also running a side caricature business, Save The Doodle. I’m passionate about serving our clients and watching their brands come to life through thoughtful strategy and meaningful design. When I’m not working, you’ll find me soaking up time with my kids, slapping bass chords, reading, or diving into a new LEGO build.

  • MIRANDA PETERSON

    DESIGN LEAD

    Hello, I am Miranda Peterson, Design Lead at Gem City Creative! I graduated from Edinboro University with a Bachelor’s in Graphic & Interactive Design and a minor in Printmaking. Before joining GCC, I spent six years as a freelance designer, using design and illustration to bring quality and intention to every project. I enjoy giving back to the community through volunteer work, and outside of work you’ll often find me collaging, embroidering, book-binding, or staying active with pilates and weightlifting.

  • EMMA OAS

    PROJECT MANAGER

    Hi, I’m Emma, Project Manager at Gem City Creative! I’m the main point of contact throughout your journey with us, handling the majority of client communication and coordination to bring your brand vision to life. From onboarding to active projects, I’m here to keep everything organized, on track, and aligned with your goals.

    Outside of work, you can find me running, practicing yoga, coaching basketball, or staying active in any way I can.

  • Trent Mason

    BRAND STRATEGIST

    Hi, I’m Trent Mason, brand strategist at Gem City Creative. I’m passionate about helping organizations build clear, compelling brands—with a special focus on mission-driven work. Over the years, I’ve collaborated with clients across retail, food services, startups, higher ed, media, and manufacturing, and my work has even been recognized with a few national awards along the way. When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me by the creek, fly fishing or enjoying a good book.

“We envision a world where the underdogs of business can stand toe-to-toe with corporate giants—armed with bold identities and compelling stories that inspire their audiences and spark real connections”

Industries We Serve

Our versatile background allows us to support a wide range of industries, helping each one elevate their brand through strong visuals and smart strategy. We’ve partnered with clients across:

  • Technology & SaaS

  • Nonprofits

  • Food & Hospitality

  • Healthcare & Wellness

  • Faith based organizations

  • Education & Training

  • Government & Public Sector

  • Retail & eCommerce

  • Real Estate & Home Services

  • Manufacturing & Industrial

Where Our Clients Are Located

Though based in Erie, Pennsylvania, Gem City Creative supports brands nationwide. We’ve helped businesses show up with confidence in:

New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Florida, Texas, California, Nevada, and our home state of Pennsylvania

  • Chris and his team are absolutely excellent at what they do and they care about your business as much as you do.

    Larry Franco Jr.
    Franco’s Restaurant

  • Their attention to detail when revealing their brand strategy for our company was completely customized to our industry but more specifically, our team and our people.

    Kahla Maguire,
    Printing Concepts

  • They kept asking questions that I would never have thought to tell them in the first place to make sure everything we wanted on the website was included.

    Holly Bowers,
    ECBLA

  • The design process was smooth and collaborative, with the firm taking the time to understand our brand's essence and vision. They actively involved us in every step, carefully listening to our ideas and incorporating them into the final concept.

    Lesley Ridge Allen,
    Erie Regional Chamber of Commerce

ARE YOU READY
TO GET STARTED? 🚀

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly! We can't wait to hear from you!

GET IN TOUCH

Phone: (814) 520-1353

Location:
1001 State St.
Suite 907 (Floor 9)
Erie, PA 16501

 

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