Hi, I'm Sean Fitzgerald.
I've been a professional designer since 1997 — and I still love what I do.
From Print Magazines to Smart Websites.
My career started in 1997, after earning my design degree, back when much of the creative process just started moving from by-hand to digital.
My first job was at AutoMart Magazine, where our small production team put together more than 50 pages of advertisements every single week. It was fast-paced, deadline-driven work — you had to think creatively, solve problems, and deliver professional results on time.
That experience taught me a lot about design, efficiency, and the importance of understanding what a customer is trying to accomplish.
Over the years, I worked professionally in graphic design while taking on freelance projects — creating everything from business logos and print advertisements to marketing collateral and custom-branded apparel.
I learned that good design isn't simply about making things attractive. It's about communicating clearly, building trust, and helping a business present itself professionally. Those same principles still guide everything I do today.
Real Work for Real Buffalo Businesses.
A selection of logos, signs, and apparel created for local businesses over the years.
Park Avenue Imprints — Custom Apparel
Buy Local — Window Sign
Design One — Logo & Brand
Agle's Farm Market — Logo
Eden Chamber — Brand Design
THRYVE 716 — Logo & Apparel
Good Design Should Work-Together Everywhere
Long before I started building websites, I was helping businesses establish their identities through logos, advertising, signs, and branded apparel. And I still enjoy that work today.
Over the years, I've had the opportunity to create designs for businesses throughout Buffalo and Western New York — from the logos that represent them to the signs on their buildings and the apparel their employees wear. There's something rewarding about driving through town and seeing work you've created out in the real world.
But there's also an important connection between that work and what I do with websites today. Your website shouldn't feel like it belongs to a different company than the one on your trucks, storefront, or business cards. The colors, typography, imagery, and overall personality should feel consistent wherever customers encounter your business.
That's where my background in graphic design becomes especially valuable. When I build a SmartSite, I'm not just arranging text and pictures on a screen. I'm thinking about how your business presents itself as a whole.
The Tools Changed. The Fundamentals Didn't.
As technology evolved, so did my work. I became involved with digital marketing tools and customer-management systems, including helping implement HubSpot for two employers. I've also worked with ActiveCampaign, ClickFunnels, and Wix.
Interestingly, my journey into website building really took off when I needed a website for my own business. Like many new business owners, I started with Wix. I already understood design and branding — what I needed was a way to bring those skills online without becoming a full-time programmer.
That experience gave me an appreciation for what small business owners face when trying to build and manage their own websites. There's no shortage of tools available, but figuring out which ones you actually need — and getting them to work together — can become a project all by itself.
I realized that most local business owners don't want to spend their evenings learning website software, troubleshooting forms, or figuring out automated follow-up. They want a professional website that works, someone they trust to help maintain it, and more time to focus on running their business.
That's the thinking behind Gung Ho Local today.
Why I Started Gung Ho Local.
After years of working in design, marketing, and business technology, I decided to bring that experience together under one company. I launched Gung Ho Local in February 2018 with a focus on helping local businesses establish a professional online presence without the unnecessary complications.
I know what it's like to hustle, with a small budget, big ideas, and an even bigger vision. For over 20 years, I worked in the trenches of small businesses and startups, honing my craft in Graphic Design and Digital Marketing. That's where I discovered my passion: helping small businesses achieve huge results, by combining Creativity and Technology.
Over the years, I've had the opportunity to work with businesses across a wide range of industries — from contractors and home service companies to restaurants, manufacturers, professional offices, and other independent businesses. I've now helped over 100 incredible local business owners build the business they've always imagined.
I've learned that a website doesn't need to be complicated to be effective. It needs to look professional, communicate what makes the business valuable, and make the next step easy. That's why I've chosen to focus Gung Ho Local on what I do best: building and supporting great business websites.
Professional Websites. Smart Features. Personal Service.
Today, Gung Ho Local specializes in SmartSites — professional websites that combine thoughtful design with practical technology. We offer two straightforward options, depending on how involved you want to be.
SmartSites Simple
A professionally designed one-page website for business owners who want an attractive online presence and the ability to handle their own updates. It's a practical, affordable starting point, with hosting, easy contact options, and access to useful website tools.
SmartSites Pro
A more complete website solution for businesses that want additional pages, smart customer communication, and ongoing website management. With features like missed-call text-back, inquiry follow-up, appointment reminders, and review requests, your website becomes part of a more connected customer experience — and because we manage it, you have one person to turn to when you need help.
Different businesses need different levels of support. My job is to help you choose what makes sense — without paying for things you don't need.
Need a Little More Than a Website? I Can Help With That, Too.
SmartSites are the main focus at Gung Ho Local, but websites aren't the only things I design. If your business needs a refreshed logo, updated signage, or branded apparel to go along with your new website, you don't necessarily need to find another designer.
Depending on the project, I can also help with:
Logo Design & Branding
New business logos, logo refreshes, color schemes, and consistent visual identities.
Business Signs & Graphics
Design for storefront signs, banners, vehicle graphics, and other business signage.
Branded Apparel
Artwork for company shirts, hats, uniforms, and promotional clothing.
Print & Marketing Materials
Business cards, brochures, flyers, advertisements, and other promotional materials.
These services are available by request and quoted separately from SmartSites. Whether you need one piece of artwork or want to bring your website and existing branding together, I'm happy to discuss the possibilities.
One reliable partner for your business.
Your Business Deserves a Partner You Can Count On.
Whether you're starting a new business, replacing an outdated website, or ready for something that does a little more, I'd be happy to share some ideas.
Gung Ho Local — One Reliable Partner for Your Business.