PROBLEM

Y Adventure, part of the YMCA of the North, creates new and original outdoor experiences that instill confidence, build community, and keep people active. They had an idea for a new type of event, something they hadn’t done before—a storybook nature adventure tied to the Bigfoot lore of their Gathering Pines Camp that focused on environmental stewardship. What they needed was a partner who could see their vision and had the creative expertise needed to make it something special and fun.

SOLUTION

After a brainstorming session with the Y team and a walking tour of the expansive camp property, cat&tonic knew what needed to be done. The decision was made to hand illustrate all of the creative components. No small undertaking, but exactly the right thing to do. We started with Bigfoot and designed the event participation medal and the assets needed to promote the event. This was followed by 11 large event signs that unfolded the story and lead participants through the event course.

RESULTS

The hand illustrations gave the experience warmth, personality, and texture. It made the woods feel like the pages of a storybook and the artwork became the emotional anchor of the entire event—playful, immersive, and deeply human. The inaugural Bigfoot Hide & Sneak nearly hit its ambitious attendance goals—around 500 participants for a brand-new event. Families responded enthusiastically and feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive.