I Hope You Die Laughing:
A Beginners Guide To Estate Planning
Art Direction | Book Design | Illustration | Visual Identity Design
We embraced the unique challenge of making estate planning approachable, relatable, and even enjoyable through the design and illustration of "I Hope You Die Laughing." Our mission was to capture the author N.M. Harvey's blend of humor, wit, and expertise to demystify the complexities of estate planning. The strategy behind this book was to transform a typically daunting subject into a narrative that is both engaging and educational, ensuring readers find clarity and peace of mind in planning their legacy.
Our approach in the book design and illustration involved creating visually captivating scenes that complemented the insightful content of each chapter. From a skeleton leaping over hurdles to a chessboard symbolizing strategic estate decisions, each illustration was thoughtfully crafted to bring the author's vision to life. We focused on using recurring symbols, like the skeleton key, to represent clarity and confidence in estate planning, while incorporating elements of gallows humor to add a lighthearted touch. This creative strategy not only made the book more visually appealing but also reinforced the essential messages of each chapter.
We are incredibly proud of the final product and the creative solutions we brought to this project. "I Hope You Die Laughing" is more than just a guide; it is a journey that turns the serious task of estate planning into a manageable and even enjoyable experience. We invite you to support this project and help us spread the love for this unique book. Get your copy now on Amazon and join us in transforming estate planning into a topic that everyone can approach with confidence and a smile.
In the opening illustration of "Chapter 1: Clearing Hurdles," our skeletal protagonist leaps gracefully over a daunting hurdle, with an open grave below as a stark reminder of life's inevitable end. As the skeleton soars, legal documents flutter into the air, representing the whirlwind of preparation and organization.
Nearby, a tombstone etched with a checklist symbolizes the meticulous planning needed to manage one's estate. This scene captures the chaotic yet essential process of getting one's affairs in order, transforming the daunting task into a manageable leap of faith. Chapter 1 emphasizes confronting these hurdles head-on, securing one's legacy, and providing peace of mind for loved ones.
In Chapter 2, "The Lie Law of Property," the illustration invites us into a world of balance and careful consideration. At the center stands a grand scale, its fulcrum an old skeleton key. On each side of the scale, split houses teeter, symbolizing the division and valuation of property. Dark clouds and a starry night sky add an air of mystery, drawing you into the intricate dance of estate planning.
This chapter introduces the "Skeleton Key," a recurring symbol that represents clarity and confidence in estate planning, giving you peace of mind as you plan for your grand exit.
When everything is accounted for, your story becomes clearer with each move. However, selecting a trusted family member or close friend to run your estate can be your most strategic and challenging decision. As author, N.M. Harvey states, “Playing favorites is something we all do, have been accused of doing, have accused someone of doing, and have denied doing. Wills and Trusts are sometimes instruments that demonstrate the winners and losers of the Game of Favorites; we see it in the distribution of assets, and all too often with the choice of executor.”
Our illustration captures this dynamic, underscoring the essential decisions in estate planning. The skeleton, deep in thought, contemplates its next move, holding a chess piece shaped like a skeleton key. This key symbolizes the crucial power of choosing an executor or trustee. The chessboard is thoughtfully arranged with only a few pieces, each representing the significant roles individuals play in executing your directives. Only one key can open the safe that reveals your chosen plan. Play every move thinking 10 steps ahead, even if it means eliminating certain key players to ensure everything goes as planned.
In this illustration, our skeleton stands at the edge of a lighthouse, gazing over a turbulent sea. The lighthouse's beam pierces through the storm, guiding a small ship labeled "Future Assets" that is securely anchored. Rooted on solid rock, the lighthouse symbolizes trust—a steadfast guardian navigating the future of beneficiaries through life's uncertainties.
This imagery suggests that just as a lighthouse is essential for guiding ships in rough waters, a well-structured trust is a beacon for future generations. It ensures their inheritance is protected and directed safely through the complexities of laws and finances.
About the Author
N. M. Harvey is an author and attorney, licensed to practice in Nevada state and federal courts. Since 2008 Mrs. Harvey has practiced in the areas of estate planning, probate and trust administration, employment law, civil litigation, corporate general counsel, risk management, and regulatory compliance. She has worked for law firms, in-house legal departments, and in solo private practice. Mrs. Harvey received her bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Economics from the University of Nevada, Reno, and her law degree (J.D.) from the Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law.
Nicole M. Harvey is a proud native Nevadan, raising the next generation of kind, smart, and funny people near the shores of the Great Basin.
Contact Mrs. Harvey for Legal Advise and Counsel.
I thoroughly enjoyed working with Anthony Gregg and Gregg Design Company on the third edition of I Hope You Die Laughing: A Beginner’s Guide to Estate Planning, and I couldn't be happier with the results. From the very beginning, Anthony demonstrated a remarkable level of professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail that truly brought my vision to life.
Anthony Gregg has an incredible talent for understanding and interpreting the nuances of the project. He took the time to listen to my ideas, provided insightful suggestions, and incorporated feedback seamlessly. The illustrations he created and the layout he designed are not only visually stunning but also perfectly capture the essence and tone of the book.
One of Anthony’s standout qualities is his dedication to meeting deadlines without compromising quality. Throughout the entire process, he maintained clear and consistent communication, making the collaboration smooth and enjoyable.
I am beyond thrilled with the final product and have received numerous compliments on the illustrations and layout of the book. Anthony's work has undoubtedly enhanced the overall impact of my book, and I am grateful for his contribution.
If you are looking for a talented and reliable graphic artist who can elevate your project with beautiful and impactful illustrations and thoughtful chapter and page layout, I highly recommend Anthony Gregg and Gregg Design Co. He is a true professional and a joy to work with.
Thank you, Anthony Gregg and Gregg Design Co., for your exceptional work and for making “I Hope You Die Laughing” a visual delight!
— N.M. Harvey Esq.
