MAV’S TAPHOUSE
Mav’s has been one of my best experiences as a graphic designer. at the time, I was working for a marketing agency that was recommended to the owner. fortunately, I was given the opportunity to design a logo for this new taproom that was taking over a very familiar location. it had previously been one of the first breweries in downtown Vancouver (post Lucky Lager 1939-1985) that I had patronized several times over the years. a historical location soon to be the realization of another’s dream and I had the great responsibility of creating the images that everyone online and on foot would associate with this person’s hopeful establishment.
THE PROBLEM:
My former boss, Michael and I had met with the owner to discuss what she was looking for in a logo and branding. she was kind enough to show me a document with the pantone colors she had for the interior of the building and expressed different ideas and values all while we couldn’t help but notice the taproom’s namesake growling at us as he emulated his favorite dinosaur. Maverick was the rule of the roost and was greatly cared for by his mother who named the taphouse after him. the plan was to meet again with a few black and white mockups to see which one would cause the most excitement.
THE SOLUTION:
I did my due diligence to create 4 different logo ideas and shared them with Michael for feedback. he showed them to his wife and there seemed to be a clear winner, but there was something missing. Michael had the foresight to add a kidlike silhouette of a dinosaur, which matched nicely with the bold lettering I used in that logo variation. I was quite reluctant and didn’t think it was the right move, but he worked with me to find the right dinosaur shape to complete the aesthetic he had in mind. when we took the 4 logos back to the owner it was quite clear that I was dead wrong - Calista, the owner, actually teared up when she saw the dinosaur logo and said, “I love this”. I’ve never been happier to eat my words. Michael is very good at what he does.
after the clear choice was established, I then developed a color palette and provided logo samples with variations of color combinations. I also made an alternate logos and extrapolated a couple of the fun parts to be used for different merchandise mediums.
the result was well received by both the owner, her staff and the public. Mav’s is a hit and a must try if you’re in the downtown Vancouver, WA area. it’s the ideal place to grab a beer any time of the day and you can even chill out while you enjoy a night of pinball.