How It Started

A peek of Cheryl Bever, founder of Tandem Creative Works behind the camera

I didn't set out to become a designer—I fell into it through curiosity and trusting the path set before me. After moving to Chicago from St. Louis for college, I discovered that this instinct for visual communication could become more than just a hobby.

My path wasn't linear. I worked in corporate environments, learned the technical skills, and built my expertise. But something was missing. The work felt transactional rather than transformational. I craved the connection that comes from truly understanding someone's vision and helping them bring it to life.

That's when I started working with small businesses and entrepreneurs—people who were pouring their hearts into building something meaningful. These collaborations changed everything for me. The most fulfilling projects weren't the ones where I simply executed someone else's instructions. They were the partnerships where we worked together, where my expertise met their vision, and together we created something neither of us could have achieved alone.

That realization became, Tandem Creative Works.

Why “Tandem”?

The name says it all. I don't work for clients - I work with them. Like riding a tandem bicycle, we're both pedaling toward the same destination, contributing our unique strengths to get there together.

This collaborative approach means I listen carefully to understand not just what you need, but why you need it. I ask questions. I challenge assumptions when necessary. I bring creative solutions you might not have considered. And most importantly, I ensure you feel ownership over the final result because your vision drives every decision.

My Approach

I don't just design logos - I share the practical insights I've gained from years of experience, helping entrepreneurs understand the strategic thinking behind effective visual choices so they can make confident decisions about their brand's visual identity.

Great design happens at the intersection of listening and creating. Every project starts with understanding your story, your audience, and your goals. From there, I bring strategic thinking and creative execution that authentically represents your brand.

Whether we're developing your visual identity, creating marketing materials, or capturing your products through photography, my focus remains the same: creating work we're both proud to share.

Beyond the Studio

Cheryl Bever, of Tandem Creative Works giving a presentation in a meeting room with a large screen displaying text about a graphic design community. Three women are seated, facing the presenter, with two men standing near the window.

When I'm not designing, you'll find me deeply engaged in the communities and passions that inspire my work.

I'm also an artist in my own right, pressing wildflowers I collect from natural areas around Chicago and transforming them into botanical art. There's something meditative about preserving these fleeting moments of beauty—it reminds me that good creative work requires time, patience, and attention to detail.

My family keeps me grounded and inspired. I'm married to painter Michael Bever, so our home is constantly buzzing with creative projects and artistic debates. From fall through summer, I'm probably on the sidelines cheering loudly for my son at his football or baseball games. Being his #1 fan is a role I take very seriously.

As Vice President of the Chicago Graphic Design Club, I foster engagement through thoughtful programming and advocacy for our mission of building a supportive design community. The club gave me renewed energy when I needed it most, and now I'm committed to creating that same space for others.

Chicago has been home for over 25 years, and the city's creative energy, natural beauty, and tight-knit communities continue to inspire everything I do. This isn't just where I work—it's where I belong.

Recognition & Leadership

Exhibitions

  • Chicago's Tomorrow, Today, MNML, April 2023

  • Chicago Graphic Design Club Exhibit, Design Museum of Chicago, 2024, 2025

  • I ♥ Chicago Flag, Flag Fest with Design Museum of Chicago, 2024, 2025

Press

Community Leadership

  • REVIEWED: A Portfolio Review, Chicago Graphic Design Club, Organizer, 2024

  • Confronting Design: Values, Chicago Graphic Design Club, Organizer, 2024

  • Discovering Your Brand Identity Workshop, Dog Tag Inc, 2025

Current Collaborators

Let’s Create together

I specialize in partnering with small businesses and entrepreneurs who are ready to transform their side hustle into their main venture—or take their established business to the next level. If you're looking for a creative partner who will invest in understanding your vision and bringing it to life,

let's connect.

Stylized Tandem Creative Works Logo with the letter T in brown and copper colors.