NO!
August 28, 2024
We believe that saying "No" is more than just a word—it's a thoughtfully designed expression that shapes the quality of our work and defines our essence. It's a complete sentence that allows us to remain true to our values, creativity, and commitment to excellence. This isn't about being selective for the sake of it; it's about honoring the integrity of our craft and the people who make it possible. Here are a few reasons why we have said "No" over the years.
Vibes Matter
The creative process is deeply personal. It's an alchemy of ideas, emotions, and collaborative energy. At the core of this process is a fundamental truth: creativity flourishes in an environment where trust, respect, and shared vision thrive. That's why we fiercely protect the vibes we cultivate at a small studio. If a potential partner or collaborator doesn't align with our values, if they don't share our passion for creativity, we do not force it, we say "No"—plain and simple.
The right vibes are non-negotiable. We're not just here to deliver design solutions but to create something extraordinary. If a client doesn't appreciate the depth and value of creative work, it's a clear signal that we're not the right fit for each other. Our work is an extension of who we are and an extensive understanding of who our partners are, too, so we refuse to compromise when there's inauthenticity.
Time is an Investment
Time is the most precious resource we all have, and we believe in investing it wisely. Collaboration isn't a one-way street; it requires dedication, communication, and a willingness to engage deeply with the creative process. When potential partners are unwilling to commit the necessary time to collaborate meaningfully, we know it's time to have a conversation (meaningfully).
Our projects aren't just transactions; they're transformational partnerships.
We thrive when our partners are as invested in the process as we are. It's not just about the final product but the journey we take together to reach it. If that journey isn't valued, the work will inevitably fall short of its potential, and that's something we simply won't accept.
Respect is Essential
We operate on a foundation of mutual respect. Every member of our team brings their unique gifts, perspectives, and passion to the table. Creativity can only flourish in an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. This is why we have zero tolerance for rudeness or impoliteness.
We've turned down projects with lucrative budgets because the clients didn't respect the people doing the work. For us, no amount of money is worth compromising the dignity and well-being of our team. When we say "No" to disrespectful clients, we're not just protecting our team; we're setting a standard for the kind of relationships we want to build—ones based on trust, empathy, and mutual appreciation.
Beyond the Paycheck
The allure of a hefty paycheck is undeniable, but we look beyond the numbers. We choose to partner with people who share our vision for creating work that matters. We're in this for more than just the money; we're here to make an impact, to push the boundaries of what design can do, and to work on projects that challenge us to be better.
Saying "No" to projects that don't align with our values isn't always easy, but it's essential. It's how we maintain the integrity of our work and ensure that every project we take on is one we're proud to stand behind. When we choose to partner with someone, it's because we believe in their vision and see the potential for something extraordinary.
We're not just vendors; we're partners, and that's a role we take seriously.
Excellence is Our Standard
Excellence isn't just a goal; it's our standard. We hold ourselves to a high bar, and we expect the same from our partners. If a project doesn't have the potential to meet that standard, we'd rather not take it on. We're not in the business of doing work that's merely good enough—we're here to create work that's exceptional, work that stands the test of time.
This commitment to excellence is why we're so selective with our partners. We know that not every client or project will be the right fit, and that's okay. We'd rather say "No" and maintain our standards than compromise on the quality of our work. Our clients trust us to deliver the best, and we honor that trust by only taking on work that we believe in wholeheartedly.
In a world where "Yes" is often overused, we've found our strength in saying "No." It's powerful by design, and it is a statement that rings true to who we are-a promise to ourselves and our clients that we will never compromise on what matters most.
If you want to partner with us, know that we value more than just the work—we value the relationship. We're here to create something that brings you peace, and we stay true to it.
If the vibes are right, if you're ready to invest the time, and if you respect the creative process, we're all in. If not, we'll say "No," and we'll mean it. Because for us,
"No" is just as powerful as "Yes"—it's how we stay true to who we are.
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