Hi, I’m Catherine Toews.
Tulip Tree Creative is my one-woman design studio where I help small businesses and nonprofits bring their ideas to life, while also pursuing an art practice rooted in growing and drawing flowers right here in Niagara.
I am based in St. Catharines, Ontario, where I was honoured to be named a finalist for the Cultural Arts Award at the Women in Business Awards. This recognition, presented by the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce and Women in Niagara, celebrates leadership in the arts.
With over 20 years of experience, I’ve combined my background in nonprofit leadership with a career as a freelance designer. From marketing and community engagement to crafting thoughtful design solutions, I’ve worked with small businesses, nonprofits, and creative professionals to bring their visions to life.
I was born and raised under the prairie skies in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I’ve been lucky enough to live in Kingston, ON, Victoria, BC, and the U.S., but I am proud to now call the beautiful Niagara Region my home.
Read on to learn more or get in touch now. If you would like to receive occasional updates from Tulip Tree Creative, please subscribe to my newsletter.
Design
I built my first website in the early days of the internet and haven’t stopped creating since. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) from the University of Manitoba and decades of experience, I specialize in website development, branding, and communication design.
I’m a Shopify Partner, Squarespace Circle Member, and experienced WordPress designer, bringing expert knowledge to custom websites tailored to your goals. From effective, user-friendly websites to cohesive branding and engaging communication materials, I ensure consistency across every touchpoint.
My experience as Program Director at LEAF and Museum Manager at the Museum of Health Care has given me deep insight into the needs of nonprofits and small businesses. I understand the importance of working within budgets and on time, ensuring every design is impactful, sustainable, and within reach.
Highlighted in my portfolio are selected projects from my design career, which spans over 20 years. I work with clients both locally and remotely.
Check out the services I offer and get in touch.
Art
FLORA editions is the artistic branch of Tulip Tree Creative.
This collection features high-quality art prints and cards of my botanical and portrait drawings, printed locally on FSC-certified, archival-quality art paper. To explore or purchase, visit my shop.
I have exhibited my art in solo and group shows in Pennsylvania, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario. I have served as a Board of Directors member at Mentoring Artists for Women’s Art (MAWA), the Vancouver Island School of Art; and as Vice President of the Board of Directors at Modern Fuel Artist-Run Centre.
A little bit more about me…
I live in St. Catharines with my spouse and child. I work alongside a high powered creative team consisting of a large & hilarious dog named Pete & a quietly sophisticated cat named Sparkle. I’m also a yoga teacher and a gardener.
