Golden Hour
Austin, Texas
Role: Logo, Brand Identity, Print Collateral, Menu System, Signage, Merch, Promotional Materials, Social Media
Golden Hour is a popular cafe, natural wine bar, and bottle shop in South Austin. Designed with Southwestern minimalism, it offers a relaxed, European-style atmosphere that transitions smoothly from a specialty coffee shop by morning to an intimate wine bar and eatery by night.
Before Golden Hour opened its doors, co-owners Barclay Stratton and Evan Dunivan brought me on to create the visual brand: starting with a logo and brand identity to menus, signage, merchandise, and print collateral. We leaned into a 1970s-inspired aesthetic with a modern twist, creating a look that feels nostalgic, welcoming, and just the right amount of hip.
I collaborated with lettering artist Jessica Hische to create the groovy script logo and standalone mark. From there I designed a colorful system of breakfast, lunch, and dinner and wine menus, keepsake matchbooks, screen-printed coasters, keychains, and signage.
As Golden Hour's wine program grew, so did its following. To celebrate the launch of the members-only Wine Club, I designed a collection of branded merchandise and print collateral, including wine tags, bottle labels, tote bags, flyers, and promotional materials.
After a few years in operation, the owners wanted a fun, recognizable mascot that could live beyond the logo and show up across apparel, stickers, and other branded merchandise. Collaborating with illustrator Tyler Barber, we created a whimsical family of mushroom characters that quickly became a signature part of the brand. Today, they pop up everywhere – from food packaging to coffee cups and wine glasses – adding personality and making the brand even more memorable.
One of my favorite parts of working with Golden Hour has been creating their social media graphics and event flyers. Leaning into a nostalgic, retro, and intentionally cheesy personality, I've designed a series of surreal, tongue-in-cheek promotions that are both unexpected and recognizable.