Gabriella Wilson-Rytting

About

I’m the Founder and Creative Director of Essence Marketing & Design and VaraKit, two brands built from my love for creativity, connection, and helping businesses grow with purpose. I grew up on Kaua‘i and now call O‘ahu home, so everything I create is inspired by that island mix of heart, community, and innovation. My background in design and strategy helps me bring ideas to life in ways that feel real. Whether that’s shaping a brand identity, building an online presence, or using new tools like AI to make business a little easier.At Essence, we help businesses tell their story through thoughtful design and marketing that actually connects with people. With VaraKit, we’re creating ways for entrepreneurs to build and grow online with less stress and more creativity.At the end of the day, my passion is simple: helping people and businesses show up beautifully, authentically, and grow in ways that feel true to who they are.

Experience

• Founder · Essence Marketing & Design02-01-2024

  As the founder of Essence Marketing & Design, I lead strategic branding, website design, and content development for businesses ready to stop blending in and start owning their space. Our focus is simple: no templates, no surface-level design — just deeply intentional visuals and strategy rooted in who you are and where you’re going. I craft custom brand identities, build strategic websites, design collateral, manage digital presence, lead creative direction, and collaborate with partners to deliver end-to-end creative solutions.

• Co-Founder · VaraKit09-01-2025

  VaraKit is an AI-powered digital ecosystem designed to bridge creativity, strategy, and technology. As Co-founder and Creative Director, I lead our mission to simplify how businesses build and scale their online presence. Our platform merges intelligent automation with human-centered design—offering tools that generate branded websites, wireframes, and content strategies in minutes. VaraKit operates as the umbrella for Essence Marketing & Design and White Space Studio, combining expertise in branding, marketing, and development to deliver seamless digital experiences.

• Creative Director · ShoreFyre Fresh Grill & Bar02-01-2023 – 05-01-2024

  As the Creative Director for Shorefyre & Skybox Taphouse, I led the brand’s visual identity, marketing strategies, and content creation, ensuring a consistent and engaging presence across digital and physical platforms. I developed high-impact marketing collateral, digital content, and promotional materials that elevated the brand’s aesthetic and customer engagement.

• Creative Director · IRUKA HAWAII EXPERIENCES01-01-2022 – 07-01-2023

  Iruka is a boat company that operates tours on the islands of O‘ahu and Big Island. I stepped into the company as a graphic designer for marketing assets and quickly adapted the roles of western-market creative director, social media marketer, copywriter, content creator, OTA specialist, website developer, invoice reviewer, and guest relations manager. I have grown the company’s revenue substantially with proper identity rebranding, social media strategies, proper budgeting, and OTA management.

Education

• University of Hawaii at ManoaBachelor's degree, American/United States Studies/Civilization
• University of Hawaii at ManoaBachelor of Fine Arts - BFA, Graphic Design
• University of Hawaii at ManoaBachelor of Fine Arts - BFA, Graphic Design
• Kauai Community CollegeAssociate of Arts - AA, Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
• University of Hawaii at ManoaBachelor of Fine Arts - BFA, Graphic Design
• University of Hawaii at ManoaBachelor of Fine Arts - BFA, Graphic Design

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