In the early days of building a business or launching a startup, many entrepreneurs have a simple request: "I just want a logo." It seems like a really quick and easy way to give their business an identity - and it is - but as any experienced designer or branding expert will tell you, this request often carries hidden pitfalls that can hinder the growth and success of that business. And I have seen it with my own eyes - for businesses both big and small. Let's unpack why this happens, what challenges it creates, and how businesses can start their branding journey the right way.

In the dynamic landscape of branding, the days of relying on a single, static logo are long gone. As consumer touch points multiply across various platforms and mediums, the need for adaptability and versatility in brand identity has become paramount. Welcome to the era of scalable logos – a solution that ensures consistent brand representation across every size, every shape, and every season.

In 2022, my social media report card wasn't glowing - marked "must try harder." But in 2023, did I ace the game? Let's just say there's room for improvement! Nevertheless, the effort I invested bore fruit: a notable spike in website traffic, especially through a remarkable surge in my Pinterest analytics. Let’s discuss why Pinterest is an essential tool for creative business.

Color psychology studies how colours can impact people's emotions, attitudes, and behaviours. Understanding the psychology of colours can help you choose the right one for your brand, that will appeal to your target audience and create the right impression. Learn how colours can affect the way customers perceive a brand and get some tips on choosing the right colours for your own brand.

As a freelance designer and business owner, how has it really been, and do I still feel that same sense of excitement a year later? In my previous blog post, I reflected on the positive aspects of my first year as a business owner and freelance designer. In this second and final part, I reflect on the challenges I faced.

As a freelance designer and business owner, how has the first year really been, and do I still feel that same sense of excitement a year later? In the first part of a two part series, here I look at the areas I have felt have been very positive.

You really want your business - your pride and joy - to stand out, but you neither have the time nor the tech skills to do it on your own. For many of you SMEs out there, the thoughts of where to even start when creating and maintaining your brand can be overwhelming. Here I share my insights with you to demystify the branding process. Not only will this let you see what fun it is, but also what immense value your business gets when you invest in personalised design.

Ever wondered what a Branding and Design Start Up gets up to behind the scenes? Here’s a little insight into the recent brand photoshoot I did with Denise Leacock Photography - effectively closing the loop on my own personal branding project which I started last year.

If you are planning to work with me, I make booking as easy as it can be! In this post I outline the different stages and insights in to each of them.

Working with a Branding or Graphic Designer is an exciting and insightful process. One that should be both easy and enjoyable. In this post, I cover some steps you can take to get the process started and how to find a Branding or Graphic Designer who’ll work with you to achieve your business goals.

Hey - I'm Mari Therese - the owner of, and the designer at marbarstarbar. In this blog post I give you a bit of my back story, my career to date and how I've ended back here in Co Donegal, starting my own business as a Brand and Graphic Designer.