ForginG
bold
brands
Specializing in highly collaborative, expressive, and scalable brand identity systems that bring corporate-level precision to evolving businesses.
From This is L., a $100M company now in over 5,000 stores, to global names like Always, Tampax, Head & Shoulders, and Kumho Tire—I apply that same level of strategic thinking to every project, no matter the size.
If you’re building something new—or ready to level up what you have—I’ll guide you through a clear, collaborative process to create a brand that stands out, feels right, and is built to grow.
Clients Include
Graduate BFA in Design
Years of Experience
15+
Portfolio
Testimonials
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Lianna McKenzie
“Clayton is a very talented designer. Professional, highly communicative, and easy to work with. His process is very collaborative, always shares his ideas, and is equally open to feedback. He creates beautifully crafted logos and brand identities.”
-Deskey, Chief Creative Officer -
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Chris Finley
"Our Recon platoon wanted branding to represent who we are and how we operate. Clayton exceeded our expectations in meeting this to boost the morale and instill a sense of pride within our specialty recon platoon.”
-Squad Leader of Recon Platoon -
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Todd Ward
"My new venture now has a name and brand image. A big thanks to Clayton, who has spent many hours getting it everything right.”
-Owner of Forward Fitness Training -
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Kelly Hightower
“I love working with my husband on branding for my business. Not only because he is my husband, but because he listens and sits down with me to get a feel for what I want to create with my brand. Since I specialize in curly hair, he focused on that but added diversity in the designs to represent all my clients.”
-Owner of Hair by Hightower -
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Kathy Evans
“Clayton is dedicated to his craft, listens to your ideas, and is wonderful to work with! Using his expertise in design, he creates branding concepts for businesses that show the core values of your ideas in a meaningful way.”
- Founder of Epitome Career Coaching -
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Cassandra Toroian
“Clayton is a very talented graphic designer and branding expert. He listens carefully and really pays attention to his clients description of their business and customer profile. He is flexible, easy to work with and very responsive. We absolutely love his work and have used him for multiple projects and will continue to use him going forward.”
- Co-Founder of Ruley, the E-Referee
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Jacob Koch
“We could not be happier with the results. Clayton was receptive to our feedback, open to making adjustments, and ensured the final product not only met our expectations but exceeded them. His professionalism, creativity, and collaborative effort make him the perfect choice for any branding or design needs you may have.”
-Owner of Benchmark Land Development
Services
Logo Design
1 Week Process
For businesses that need a strong, professional mark.
Primary logo design
Versatile logo variations
File exports (web + print)
Basic usage guidance
Price Range: $800 - $1,500
Best for: startups or quick launches that need a solid visual anchor.
Most impact
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Most impact //
Brand Identity
2-3 Week Process
For businesses that want a complete, cohesive system.
Everything in the Essential Option
Color palette
Typography system
Brand patterns or graphic elements
Visual style direction (imagery, layouts, etc.)
Social media template (Canva layouts)
Brand guidelines document
Price Range: $3,000 - $5,000
Best for: businesses ready to build a consistent, scalable brand across all touchpoints.
Custom request
PROCESS
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We start with a call or video meeting to get aligned. I learn about your business, audience, goals, and the opportunity your brand needs to capture.
Whether you’re looking for a focused logo or a more complete brand identity, this step ensures we’re building on a clear, strategic foundation.
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I translate strategy into visuals through concept exploration and refinement.
From a single distinctive mark, to a fully developed visual system, each direction is crafted to connect with your audience and stand apart in your space. At key checkpoints, we’ll review progress together—typically over a video call—so I can walk you through the thinking and gather your feedback in real time.
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Once finalized, I prepare everything for launch—organized, polished, and ready to use.
Depending on your needs, this can include anything from professional logo files, to a complete set of brand guidelines, and assets—giving you the tools to show up consistently and confidently.
Social
Being part of my community is a big source of inspiration. Check out the work I’ve done for Cincinnati charity/events, follow my socials, and come along on the journey.
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Thane Maynard, holding my T-shirt design selected as the winner for the 2019 Bowling for Rhinos at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Shirt sales generated over $35,000 in proceeds, with more than 1,000 units sold during the event.
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In collaboration with Deskey, I created branding, posters, and merchandise for the 2022 Queens Village “In Her Voice” campaign—an initiative celebrating the strength of Black women while raising awareness of infant mortality within the Black community.
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Working with Anderson Township, I designed a series of banners that won every season of the 2024 community banner contest. The selected designs are now displayed throughout the township, celebrating its people and natural surroundings.
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Drawing on Cincinnati’s heritage, I developed branding for the American Museum of Brewing—an inclusive destination that celebrates the deep history of craft beer and the industry’s role in shaping the city’s economic foundation.
