Her Story
About Dayna
Dayna Petry is a talented graphic apparel and product designer based in Costa Mesa, California, with nearly a decade of experience creating visually compelling designs across apparel, accessories, and consumer goods. Currently working in the golf industry, she specializes in developing graphics for golf apparel, headwear, and a wide range of products, blending creativity with a strong understanding of market trends. With a dual Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and Illustration from California State University, Fullerton, Dayna brings a well-rounded artistic foundation to her work, complemented by additional studies in fashion design. Dayna’s career path reflects both creativity and strategic insight, shaped by her early experience as a sales manager in high-volume retail environments. This background gave her a strong sense of consumer behavior, merchandising, and business operations, which she now integrates into her design process. Since transitioning into the design field, she has worked with both large and small brands, producing high-volume collections, and collaborating closely with design teams and manufacturers to bring concepts to life. Known for her adaptability and efficiency, she consistently delivers innovative designs while navigating tight deadlines and evolving industry demands. Driven by curiosity and a passion for continuous growth, Dayna draws inspiration from travel, culture, and personal connections, infusing her work with fresh perspectives and authenticity. She is particularly passionate about graphic placement on products, where art and functionality intersect. Looking ahead, she aspires to step into a senior design leadership role, combining her creative expertise with her background in team management to guide and inspire others. With a strong work ethic, collaborative mindset, and keen eye for design, Dayna continues to evolve as a forward-thinking creative in the ever-changing fashion and product design industry.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dayna
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute so much of my success to the support system I have at home. My husband, my dog, my family, and my friends have always been there for me. Having people who believe in you—especially in moments when you may not fully see it in yourself—makes all the difference. It’s hard to push forward without that kind of steady, genuine support.
There are times when your own perspective gets clouded, and that’s when you lean on the people around you. For me, my husband, family, and friends are the foundation of both my confidence and my growth.
I also believe the best ideas and outcomes come from collaboration—when people are thinking, sharing, and building together in a supportive, respectful environment. When that kind of energy exists, the possibilities are endless. And alongside that, perseverance is key—being able to push through challenges, learn from them, and keep moving forward.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be comfortable making mistakes—they’re part of the process. In this industry, failure isn’t something to avoid, it’s something to learn from. What matters most is that you don’t lose your grit. Resilience is everything as a designer. Stay tough, keep pushing, and trust that each setback is shaping your perspective and sharpening your work.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I’d say it comes down to being honest and staying true to who you are. Even when it feels uncomfortable, honesty matters. Loyalty and respect are core values for me—treating everyone with the same level of respect, regardless of who they are.
When I was younger, there were times I held back the truth to protect someone else’s feelings, but in doing that, I felt disconnected from myself. Over time, I’ve learned that honesty can—and should—be delivered with respect. Whether the message is positive or difficult, it’s about communicating it thoughtfully and with care.
It’s something I’ve come to value deeply as I’ve grown.
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