Ryan Robbins | An Unconventional Introduction
Ryan Robbins first contacted Stan's about working together through a direct message on Instagram. 10 years ago that would have been impossible, 5 years ago it could have been considered unprofessional, and within the last few years, it's slowly starting to become the norm. We're constantly approached by companies and individuals who are looking to work with us. What made Ryan stand out? His direct message was short and to the point, included a link to some of his past work, and our initial reply was responded to almost immediately. After grabbing our attention in an unconventional way, Ryan seamlessly transitioned to email and phone communication and we got work. We're very happy that Ryan reached out and that he was able to work up some fun spinoff logos that will be used on future soft goods. Check out our new wool socks that use one of Ryan's designs.
Follow Ryan on Instagram here.
Stan's NoTubes: What's your thought process look like when you first sit down to begin work on a new project?
Ryan Robbins: The first step I take when working on a new assignment is to learn as much as I can about the company that I'm working with and the scope of the project. I like to gather elements that could be helpful in creating a design. These can be things such as the year they were established, key elements of their origin story, certain aspects of the brand that are recognizable, preferred color palettes, etc. I get as much information as possible to build a solid foundation for the design.
SNT: How do you decide which companies you contact to try and work with?
RR: I really enjoy working with companies that are in the same industries that my hobbies and interests are in. I like to live an active lifestyle filled with time spent outside; so naturally, it makes sense to work with companies that offer products/services that support that same lifestyle. This approach helps me stay passionate about the projects that I'm working on and gives me that little bit of extra motivation to put into the final result.
SNT: Stan's has historically been associated with the colors of red and white. What's it like creating new logos for a company that already has a well-established brand identity?
RR: It's great. I really enjoy working with established brands that have an identity and know exactly what they are looking for. Creative freedom is a necessity in any project and coupling that with some clearly defined guidelines is where I feel we can collaborate to produce some high-quality results.
SNT: Seeing something that you designed make its way onto a finished project has to be a cool feeling. What went through your mind when you first put on the new Stan's socks with your logo on them?
RR: It is one of the most amazing feelings to take a design that has been created from nothing and then be able to see it come to life. It is incredibly rewarding work. This is especially true in today's world where there is so much creative work that lives and dies digitally. It's a refreshing change to be able to touch and feel a product that I've worked extremely hard to bring to life.
Putting on the socks for the first time was amazing. There is definitely a sense of pride I feel when wearing them; knowing what went into the creative process. It's fun to be able to wear my work and see others proudly showcase it as well.
