this website belongs to
Eric Barker
Creative Strategist and AI Innovator
Eric Barker is a Chicago-born creative strategist who’s done it all — from professional photography for magazines and global brands to running one of the world’s top-ranked web design studios for a decade.
From the Blog
A glimpse into my latest thoughts and experiences.
The 7 Billion-Dollar Prompts That Will Define the Future (And How to Use Them Before Everyone Else Does)
Discover the 7 billion-dollar prompts that could transform your life when AI surpasses human intelligence. Master prompt engineering techniques that early adopters will use to build fortunes.
Why Traditional Design Agencies Are Dying—and How AI Saved My 19-Year Career
From global design studio founder to AI-powered subscription pioneer — here’s what I learned about survival in a changing industry.
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Brand with AI: Lessons from 200+ Sprints
Learn how AI is revolutionizing brand building, making it faster, cheaper, and more effective.
The 7 Deadly Sins of UI Design (And How AI Fixes Them Overnight)
If you’ve ever rage-quit a website, sighed at a mobile app, or squinted at a font smaller than an ant’s résumé, you've witnessed the 7 Deadly Sins of UI Design.
About Me
Eric Barker is a Chicago-born creative strategist who’s done it all — from professional photography for magazines and global brands to running one of the world’s top-ranked web design studios for a decade.
He’s worked with industry giants like Google, Sysco Foods, Subway, Unilever, and the City of Chicago, helping thousands of businesses sharpen their brand identity, boost revenue, and stand out online.
With a career built on blending creativity, technology, and strategy, Eric is as comfortable behind the camera as he is leading a design team. When he’s not building brands or experimenting with AI, he’s exploring art, sci-fi, and a little bit of the unknown.
My Children
Ethan Yau
born in 2002
Ethan is a car-loving mechanic with a serious gaming addiction. His PC setup is his pride and joy, where he spends hours playing Pokémon Go, Magic: The Gathering, and watching anime. Whether he’s under the hood of a car or grinding in a game, Ethan blends real-world skills with fantasy world adventures.
Sienna (Lulu) Barker
born in 2006
Lulu is the queen of boba tea and Dr. Pepper, armed with a wicked sense of humor and a love for anime and all things girly pop. Recently tattooed and convinced she’s a certified badass, she manages to be both hilarious and stylish, mixing her sweet side with a confident, unapologetic edge.
Ellis Barker
born in 2010
Ellis is a multi-talented drummer who loves rocking out to The Strokes and building epic Lego Ninjago creations. A Star Wars enthusiast and proud Power Rangers fan, he’s also a self-declared femboy-in-training, blending humor, creativity, and style into one entertaining package.
Siv Bahr
born in 2016
Siv, the youngest in the crew, is a creative powerhouse with a love for photography, singing songs, and connecting with pen pals. He spends his days exploring nature, singing, and enjoying his mom’s cooking, proving that curiosity and good food are the perfect recipe for a happy life.
My Skills
Work History
A journey through my professional life.
Founder & CEO
Design Delulu • Nov 2023 - Present • Chicago & Bangkok
- Built a subscription based design agency and think tank, delivering brand strategy, web, and marketing for thousands of businesses—from startups to Fortune 500s.
Private Consultant
Multiple · Self-employed • Dec 2019 - Present • Bangkok & Remote • Hybrid
- Advise startups and established brands in Thailand and the US on e-commerce launches, digital strategy, workflow automation, and business transformation.
- Build and optimize websites, set up new online revenue streams, and use AI/automation to boost efficiency and results.
- Develop custom AI solutions and products for clients, and provide hands-on education/training to help teams streamline operations with AI.
- Create and edit viral TikTok and digital campaigns—helping brands rack up millions of views.
- Guide founders and leaders in simplifying operations, increasing sales, and building competitive teams.
Digital & Marketing Strategy Lead
Nylon Thailand, Music & Family Businesses · Freelance • Jan 2016 - Nov 2019 • Bangkok, Thailand
- Led digital marketing and content for a top Thai music artist and lifestyle brands (barbershop, kids’ clothing), managing product launches and e-commerce growth.
- Ran digital campaigns that drove 4 singles to #1 on the Thai music charts, generating hundreds of millions of views globally.
- Helped Nylon Thailand’s Facebook grow to 500,000+ followers and another 250,000+ across other platforms through creative and analytics-driven campaigns.
Co-Founder
Organic Green Health Care Collective (OGHC) · Self-employed • Jan 2010 - Jun 2016 • Los Angeles, CA
- Co-founded and ran two high-volume medical marijuana dispensaries, serving 20,000+ patients.
- Led operations, compliance, hydroponic cultivation, and in-house edibles production, establishing OGHC as a top-quality provider in LA.
- Closed business in 2016 after the passing of my partner.
Founder & CEO
Blueprint Digital Solutions • Mar 2006 - Jun 2015 • Chicago, IL
- Built a global creative agency and think tank, delivering brand strategy, web, and marketing for thousands of businesses—from startups to Fortune 500s.
- Drove successful digital transitions, often doubling or tripling client revenue and online reach.
- Led partnerships with Google, WordPress, Sysco Foods, Tribune Company, and more; maintained relationships with Lego, Verizon, Oxfam, Red Bull, Subway, Unilever, and Chicago Public Schools.
Business Consultant
Clandestino Dining • Mar 2007 - Jun 2011 • Chicago, IL
- Co-founded Chicago’s first modern underground supper club.
- Created original dining experiences to support local, sustainable businesses in art, food, and entertainment.
Photographer
Freelance • Mar 2000 - Dec 2009 • Chicago, IL
- Maintained two columns in popular local urban publications. Clients include: Red Bull, Lavalife, Absolute Vodka, Subway, UR Magazine, GRO Magazine
Wireless Sales
Verizon Wireless • Mar 2004 - Nov 2005 • Chicago, IL
- Responsible for in-store kiosk. Sold mobile and wireless services to local clientele.
Freelance Photographer
UR Chicago Magazine • May 2004 - May 2005 • Chicago, IL
- Worked as Fashion on the Street Photographer with monthly column.
Sr. Advisor, Admissions
Career Education Corporation • May 2003 - Dec 2004 • Chicago, IL
- Execute team development and marketing strategies to increase overall enrollment and attendance.