How does branding make a difference?

In college, I remember having a debate on whether or not art can save the world.

The winning side: art will save the world.

Art is different than design, being expressive and subjective. Design is strategic and organized.

In our work, design leverages and references art.

We aren’t claiming to save the world, but we’re saving relationships and businesses. A well-designed business knows who to communicate to, what to communicate, and why. It builds a relationship between company and customer, providing clarity and communication, through verbiage, graphics, and tone. It presents artful elements to catch the eye, and the heart.

Studebaker Design Company helps local businesses find their voice and connect meaningfully with their community. It's not only logos or color palettes—it's giving business owners the confidence to show up authentically and creating ways for them to be understood by the people they serve.

I love working with the local, “mom and pop” businesses making our communities unique. When I partnered with Larry + Kristi's Donuts to update their branding, while honoring three generations of scratch baking, we preserved something special for Bremerton. Being a bakery where the Naval yard workers bring donuts as apology payment when they're running late, where coworkers brighten each other's day, and where families share treats across generations.

With Visit Kitsap Peninsula, I've worked to showcase what makes this place special—the balance of natural beauty and vibrant communities, the playful spirit alongside real motivation. The work has helped raise awareness and pride among both visitors and locals, positioning Kitsap as an experience unlike anywhere else in the Puget Sound.

At Evergreen Pizza, I helped the owners break free from feeling constrained by a "fancy pizza place" reputation. Together, we developed bingo nights and community events transforming their restaurant into a warm gathering space for family nights and date nights alike—a place locals love and support.

The list continues: photographers and videographers who can better showcase other Kitsap businesses, restaurants and bakeries sharing their personal stories beyond a Yelp review, health services building the trust needed to care for our community.

When local businesses thrive and connect authentically with their neighbors, everyone benefits.

Supporting businesses like that makes our cities richer.