President’s Post – Signing Off for 2025
A Year of Growth, Grit, and Gratitude
Before we all disappear into the madness and magic of Christmas, I wanted to stop, take a breath, and reflect on just how far we’ve come this year as an association.
Because, honestly? It’s been a big one.
This year we welcomed 25 new members into the NZSDA family—a clear sign that our industry is growing and that more signmakers see the value in being part of something bigger. Membership means connection, support, and being part of a community that backs each other.
We also celebrated 12 new Master Sign Makers. That’s no small feat. It’s a recognition of skill, consistency, and commitment to the craft. These individuals are raising the standard for all of us—and showing the next generation what excellence looks like.
We’ve added real value too, through practical tools like our webinars and the N3 card. (I’ve had great feedback from members whose staff have saved big on their Christmas shopping through places like JB Hi-Fi and Noel Leeming, just by using their N3 benefits).
And behind the scenes, we’ve been laying the groundwork for next year’s Expo and Sign Awards, as well as developing some fresh new benefits for our members. It’s still early days, but the buzz is building. 2026 is shaping up to be something special.
We’ve had great conversations and made real connections, not just on screens and in rooms, but over coffee, drinks at the bar, and shared challenges. It’s been a blast.
I’m incredibly proud of the work put in by our team on the ground – Mikayla and Melissa, you two are powerhouses. None of this happens without your energy and hard work. Thank you both.
And to our Board – it’s been a pleasure. We’ve had some great discussions and a few good, healthy debates too (as any passionate group should). But above all, there’s a real sense of pride and purpose in our crew. It’s an honour to serve alongside such talented professionals who genuinely want to see this industry thrive.
The Final Push (and How to Stay Sane)
Now, let’s talk about this time of year – that crazy window between now and Christmas where stress runs high, deadlines loom, and we all try to squeeze five weeks of work into two.
If you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. Here are a few tips I’ve found help as we race toward the finish line:
- Control the controllables: You can’t fix every client crisis or magically find time that doesn’t exist. Focus on what you can control: your pace, your priorities, your mindset.
- Say no (my biggest challenge!): It’s okay to push back. “We’re fully booked until Jan” is a complete sentence. The more you practice it, the easier it gets.
- Check in with your team: Emotions run high this time of year, and a stressed-out team doesn’t produce good signs. A five-minute one-on-one can go a long way in helping someone feel seen and valued.
- Don’t skip lunch: You’re not a machine. Coffee isn’t a food group. Take a minute to breathe, eat your lunch, and go for a five-minute walk. I find it incredibly grounding. It helps clear the head and reset for the afternoon.
- Book something to look forward to with your team: Every year, Krystal and I host lunch and drinks at our place on the last day of work. It’s full of banter, reflection, and celebration – a finish line we’re all heading towards in those final days of the year.
A Season to Celebrate
Christmas means different things to all of us. For my family, it’s a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus and reflect on the hope and impact that’s had across the world. We’ll be spending time with family and friends and clocking as many hours on the lake as we can.
Whatever Christmas looks like for you – whether it’s loud and festive, quiet and reflective, or just a well-earned break – I hope you make the most of it.
Unplug. Recharge. Celebrate the wins. Put your phone down, be present with your people. And leave the stress at the workshop door.
Bring on 2026
Next year is just around the corner, and I, for one, am excited. There’s real momentum in our industry, a buzz of anticipation, and I believe 2026 is going to be a year of opportunity: for innovation, for connection, and for continuing to lift the craft of signage in New Zealand.
So from me, the NZSDA Board, and the whole team – Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and thank you for being part of this incredible community.
Signing out for 2025,
Logan Sutton
Creative Director – Future Grafix
President – NZ Sign & Display Association