Wow, I just got the news this evening and I have to say I’m finding myself a little giddy. I thought that Tom’s intiative to establish these awards was very admirable and over the next few years its going to establish itself much the same way Wine Blogging Wednesday has built itself into a semi-institution.
I have to be honest, I knew I was nominated and that was cool. I was actually nominated in a couple of categories but I am actually particularly proud to be a finalist in the Best
Graphics category because over the last couple years I’ve enjoyed writing about the Wine Life and everything about it, including tasting notes, gadget reviews, etc. etc. But I’ve actually spent a tremendous amount of time and energy into the look and feel of the blog. I enjoy the Zen of negative space for website design and consistency of the look and color scheme was important to me. I choose the graphics carefully and often reject even my own photography. Its a labor of love and I’ve been happy to do it.
This site was inspired by, of all things, the newly renamed Apple Inc. There is a principle in high tech that the simpler a product the more engineering goes into it. If something is very straight forward and incredibly simple, it normally takes exponentially more engineering then a similar product that isn’t quite as simple. Apple is a good example of that. Their products are simple to use, to the point, and always have graceful designs. The users benefit tremendously with a complete enjoyable experience – from just looking at the product to actually using it. This principal even extends to their website, which does a nice job of using negative space with simple navigation.
Thats my inspiration – working tirelessly to make a simple, elegant, dynamic site. A site that leverages negative space to create a visual experience that is consistent and shows depth without the use of a multitude of complexity.
Thanks to those who nominated me and to anyone who may vote for Vivi’s Wine Journal.
While everyone is reviewing the site, one note on the name (as it always seems to confuse). I had an Aunt Vivian whom I was very close with. A couple years before I started blogging, she passed away from a series or respiratory ailments. I dedicated the blog to her and named it after her. I’m Joel Vincent and this blog is loving dedicated to the memory of my Aunt Vivi.
Thanks! And Enjoy the Wine Life! Cheers!
Joel Vincent 