Budpop is a fast-growing e-commerce brand in the wellness and vape space. I was brought in to design marketing emails that aligned with their evolving visual direction, specifically a shift toward a more premium, 3D, product-forward look while remaining clear and effective in email.

This case study highlights two campaign designs created focusing on hero-section execution and visual hierarchy.

Create high-impact email heroes that immediately establish product strength

Push toward a 3D "popping" look without compromising email clarity

Stay aligned with existing brand typography, layout systems, and tone

The key challenge was balance.

Early references leaned toward bold, high-energy visuals, but for email, too much cinematic treatment can distract from:

the product

the headline

the call to action

The goal became refining the direction into something that feels powerful but controlled. Premium rather than chaotic.

For both emails, the hero section was designed around a grounded product stage, using:

subtle pedestals or surfaces

soft shadows and reflections

directional lighting

This creates the illusion of depth and realism while keeping the product visually anchored.

Given the vape category, atmosphere was important but restrained:

smoke and lighting effects were used sparingly

backgrounds were darkened and simplified

visual noise was reduced to keep focus on the product

The result is a luxury, high-potency feel without overwhelming the layout.

Both designs follow the same visual system:

consistent lighting logic

similar depth treatment

aligned hierarchy

This makes the campaign feel cohesive while still allowing variation between emails.

Email 1 - Premium hero design emphasizing product strength through depth and lighting

Email 2 - A variation using the same 3D stage system for visual continuity

Both designs were delivered as high-fidelity visuals ready for internal review and deployment.

The designs were well received for their clean, premium, execution

The 3D hero system proved scalable for future campaigns

Established a repeatable visual approach that balances brand polish with marketing impact

Effective email design isn't about how many effects you use. It's about restraint, hierarchy, and focus.

By grounding the product and controlling atmosphere, these designs communicate strength and clarity at a glance, crucial for high-performing e-commerce emails.