Meet Hannah Edwards | Founder of Greater Than

We had the good fortune of connecting with Hannah Edwards and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hannah, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
I’m a bit of a hybrid! I have a love for writing, design, illustration, and teaching, so when it comes to my career, I am happiest when I’m able to bring all of those skill sets into play. If I don’t, I’m usually not stimulated enough intellectually and creatively. Additionally, maintaining agency over my work, whether as a practicing designer or an educator, allows me to channel my unique voice and perspective through both my creative and teaching pursuits.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

In 2021, I filed an LLC and started my own virtual teaching platform called Greater Than. Through Greater Than, I work one-on-one with clients to help spiff up and add new self-authored pieces to their design portfolios. From time to time, I also offer design and illustration courses comprised of only two-three people to cater to clients looking to explore new formats, like board games! These courses also help hone critiquing skills.

I created Greater Than because I noticed — after several years of teaching— that many newly graduated design students apply for jobs before their portfolios are really in a competitive spot. I also noticed that many struggle to organize, edit, and talk about their work, so I felt it was a needed service. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, many clients struggle with concept and creating voice within their portfolios. Design is storytelling, and I love teaching people how to incorporate their interests, passions, and selves into their work.

First and foremost, I am proud of myself for taking the leap and starting this business.  Doing so was certainly something out of my comfort zone! I’m also proud of myself for managing to create a career-scape that incorporates all of my hybrid skill sets. I’m able to design and continuously extend my brand. Write blog and social media posts, as well as curriculum — without any limitation, and of course, to teach! I’m much happier now, so I’m relieved I was able to carve out a space for myself like this.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in Minneapolis, Minnesota, so if you plan on stopping by, definitely stick to the summer or fall seasons.

I’m an avid runner, so if you enjoy exploring the outdoors like I do, there’s no shortage of green space here! I love running the trails in Theo Wirth Park and paddle-boarding the Chain Of Lakes!

Some of my favorite places to eat are Snack Bar in the North Loop, Gardens of Salonica in Northeast, and Red Wagon Pizza in South Minneapolis. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make the drive into the suburbs and grab a donut from Valley Pastries in Golden Valley.

Some other fun places to check out are the Minneapolis Institute of Art if you’re a fan of museums. And Hunt and Gather if you’re into unique antique and vintage finds.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This shoutout serves as a huge THANK YOU to all of my students and clients. They have taught me such an incredible amount about being an educator and have left me in awe of their capabilities. A big thank you also goes to the graphic design graduate program at Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, PA. Their program truly leveled up my graphic design and illustration skills beyond measure. One of my professors there, Kelly Holohan, also recognized that my ability to write had a meaningful place in design and encouraged me to weave it into my work as much as possible. Finally, a big thank you to my family. It hasn’t always been an easy ride, and they’ve always been there. Oh, and I can’t forget my accountant either… with Greater Than, taxes have gotten a bit more complicated. 🙂

Website: www.greaterthan.courses

Instagram: @greaterthan.courses

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-edwards-9802a85/

Other: email: greaterthan.courses@gmail.com

Image Credits
Photo 1: www.jennings.photo Photo 2: www.jennings.photo Photo 3: www.jennings.photo Photo 4: www.jennings.photo Photo 5: Work by Cameron Smith Photo 6: Work by Tessa Portuese Photo 7: work by Meg Jenson