Brand strategy and design for people building things that matter.

D.S. Higdon Studio is a design and brand strategy practice that helps founders and creative businesses clarify their voice, sharpen their visuals, and build confident, cohesive identities that grow with their business.

We work with companies across food & beverage, publishing, wellness, culture, and the arts—collaborating closely with teams who care about meaning, not just marketing. Our approach blends strategic thinking with design craft: thoughtful systems, bold visuals, and brand messaging that speaks with clarity and intention.

Led by David Higdon—an experienced creative director, brand strategist, and writer based in Louisville, KY—the studio draws on 15+ years of experience rebranding national companies, launching early-stage startups, and leading in-house creative teams. That background informs how we work: smart, collaborative, and purpose-driven.

Whether you're launching something new or reimagining what already exists, we help brands show up with confidence and character—on screen, in print, and out in the world.

  • I help you define what your brand stands for, who it’s for, and how it shows up—so you can stop guessing and start growing with clarity and confidence.

  • From voice guidelines to your brand story and tagline, I craft the language that makes your brand sound as intentional as it looks.

  • I design smart, flexible identity systems—logos, typography, color, and style—that give your brand a cohesive, memorable look across every touchpoint.

  • Whether it’s on a shelf, on social, or in someone’s hands, I create bold, story-aligned design that connects with your audience and brings your brand to life.

  • For brands in growth mode, I provide senior-level creative leadership—guiding your team, brand, and output without the cost of a full-time CD.

What I do best

Who I Work With:

I partner with founders who’ve outgrown the DIY phase and are ready to invest in a brand that reflects who they’ve become—especially in:

  • Food & beverage – products with flavor, character, and a need to stand out

  • Lifestyle & gear – founder-led brands built around mission, quality, and culture

  • Wellness & self-care – voice-first brands that want to build trust and credibility

Whether you’re prepping for a launch, scaling up, or rethinking how your brand shows up in the world, I can help you shape a strategy—and an identity—that works.

Testimonials

"From our first conversation, David understood my vision and brought it to life in a way that exceeded my expectations. His creativity and attention to detail made the entire process smooth and easy.”

Dallas McGarity, Executive Chef, The Fat Lamb

“David is highly creative as well as strategic. He welcomes feedback in the interest of getting it right. If you are seeking a partner for creative and marketing endeavors, you can stop now. You’ve found him.”

Jim Cheney, Owner, Prufrock Communications