A branding & design studio
based in Portland, Oregon
IT’S ALL IN OUR NAME
A tributary is a river or stream that flows into a larger body of water.
“I was drawn to this concept when approaching my own branding. I wanted to speak to the growth our clients experiences when they invest in brand design. The symbol of a small stream, making its way to a larger river, the two feeding into each other, depending on each other, the small stream growing into a larger body of water. This felt like a perfect metaphor for the work we do with our clients. “
- Marielle Claire, Founder & Creative Director
About Marielle Claire
Where Marielle Claire looked, she saw design. Always and everywhere. The right framing, the perfect lighting, typography that talked back, colors to complement, patterns to play with. Naturally fascinated by this potential in the world, she studied anthropology, traveled to 31 countries, lived in 4. At the start of her career, she worked in public relations, designing this or photographing that for friends and startups in the spare hours that would eventually fill her days.
During Marielle's years as an independent designer, she applied her purpose to other's missions. She developed a deep understanding of the founder's journey and what they needed to bring ideas to life, on the screen and into customers' hands. Guiding people through the branding process meant working to solve creative problems with strategy and clear business hurdles creatively. Bringing both sides together, Marielle launched Tributary Design Studio in 2019 to offer thoughtful, full-service branding to purpose-driven companies.
Her spare hours are now spent designing cards, curating gifts for loved ones, and redecorating the yard, home, and Airstream she shares with her partner and their dog, Tilly.
We consider every touchpoint, how your brand shows up in the world, and how we can connect you to your customers.
Design is only one part of our process.
With your branding, we help you make decisions that impact your business long-term. We’re here to answer whatever questions come up during the process: packaging to printing methods to project management software.
We put together all the puzzle pieces.
Your brand identity isn’t complete without strong messaging and beautiful photos. Let us tap into our network of wordsmiths, producers, and photographers to manage every touchpoint.
We value the same things.
Working to innovate or rebrand an entire industry. Modernizing and reviving classic traditions. Creating environmental, social or health-conscious solutions to old problems. This is the kind of work we want to help you do.
More about
our services
BRANDING
Brand Strategy
Competitor Research
Brand Guidelines
Logo Design
Color Palettes
Typography
Illustration Systems
Creative Direction for Photography & Interior Design
PRINT
Packaging Design
Brand Merchandise
Marketing Collateral
Event Signage Materials
Stationary Design
Print Production
DIGITAL
Website Design
Website Development
E-Commerce
Mobile Optimization
Newsletter design
Social Media Templates
Questions? Schedule a free 20-minute consultation and we’ll answer them.