Meet Kat Cafaro | Graphic Designer

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

Hi Kat, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
Surrounding myself with supportive, uplifting people create the space where my confidence and growth can thrive. When I face a challenge, I try to push myself to see what I’m capable of. I either discover that I’m stronger than I thought, or I gain valuable experience and learn from it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
While earning my degree, I took on as many internships and jobs in my field as I could—whether they were paid or unpaid. Building a strong portfolio was a top priority for me because I knew it would set me up for long-term success.

There were definitely times when burnout started to catch up with me. Balancing full-time classes, work, internships, and trying to maintain a social life meant I was on the go seven days a week. It was exhausting—but it was absolutely worth it. Looking back, I have no regrets.

Whenever I need a refresh, I find renewal in traveling, watching a good horror movie, listening to music, enjoying great food, recharging through movement, spending time with my partner, friends, and family, and being outdoors surrounded by flowers.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d start off on Gaylord Street with a few of my favorite spots—Devil’s Food Cafe, alongside the Trunk Show gift shop. Just down the street, The Cookery at Myrtle Hill is a charming brunch and lunch spot, known for its moody, vintage atmosphere, cozy architectural touches, and of course, delicious food.

As a true floraphile, a trip to the Denver Botanic Gardens is always a must for me—there’s nothing like being surrounded by vibrant flowers and beautifully designed landscapes to recharge and get inspired. I’d also make a stop at the Museum of Contemporary Art; I love exploring the thought-provoking works and fresh perspectives it offers. It’s the perfect balance of natural beauty and creative energy. If we were to take a mini road trip, I’d drive us to Garden Sweet—a pick-your-own flower garden tucked away in Fort Collins.

For dinner, we would either go to Coperta or The Ethiopian Restaurant on Colfax and Fillmore St., that has some of the best food in Denver. After that, a cocktail at Room for Milly on Platte Street—an intimate, artfully designed spot perfect for a nightcap.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Attending Metropolitan State University introduced me to incredibly talented students and professors, leading to amazing friendships and endless inspiration. As part of the MSU community, I had the opportunity to work at the Center for Visual Art, where I was able to let my creativity flourish as one of the graphic designers.

I also want to give a special shoutout to my incredible friends at Hourglass Medical Aesthetics—thank you for trusting me with branding your business. Your support means the world to me and it’s been such a joy to witness your growth and the results of your dedication.

Website: https://www.katcafarodesign.com/

Instagram: katcafaro

Linkedin: Kat Cafaro

Image Credits
Photo 1 & 4- MEA Event
Photo 2- Art by Allison Risinger
Photo 3- SLU streetcar design