HICKORY, NC         Hickory-based graphic design studio m.e.designlab and City Walk Distilling were recently selected as winners for a 2025 American Packaging Design Award by a nationwide panel of judges. The award recognizes excellence in communication and graphic design.

The competition was presented by Graphic Design USA Magazine. A highly selective 10% of the 2,600+ entries were honored this year. The winning entry was for the label design of a series of spirits for City Walk Distilling in Hickory, NC.

“I’ve been aspiring to create a double-sided label series for a while now, and finally found the perfect fit to utilize this interesting and elegant look,” said Matt Everley, owner of m.e.designlab. “Working closely with City Walk’s owners, a series of minimalist artworks were created as backdrops for the see-through side of the label. Each feature a lake or mountain scene reminiscent of Hickory and the surrounding Foothills area, with the opposite side designed for the description of the liquid within.”

-Matt Everley, Graphic Designer

City Walk’s owners Zack and Tucker Cranford are equally excited about the award. “The spirit label designs capture the essence of our vision for the distillery’s initial offerings,” said Zack.

“Matt was able to transform our ideas into vibrant and sophisticated labels to beautifully represent the products we sell, as well the area we call home. This award reinforces the time and combined effort of our collaboration.”

-Zack Cranford, City Walk Distilling

Spirits in this series—City Walk’s Vodka, Gin, and Bourbon—can be found in select ABC stores across North Carolina, and at City Walk Brewing & Distilling’s Hickory, NC taproom.

Everley has won numerous awards for logos, web sites, and packaging design systems including several previous American Graphic Design Awards over the last two decades. His portfolio can be viewed at www.matte69.sg-host.com/portfolio. For more information, call 919-593-2092.