Pen & Mug

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Chief Marketing Officer at Mployer Advisor. We connect employer benefit buyers to high quality, reputable health insurance brokers.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Pen & Mug?

As a startup, we have had the need for various marketing and sales collateral. Additionally, we have needed help with brand guides, social ads, and UI/UX.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We like to partner with firms who will be with us long-term, and where we feel like they are a part of the team.

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

Austin worked with us to set up a project plan and reviewed the necessary deliverables. He would send comp with an explanation prior to the meeting for us to review and provide feedback. We then would discuss during our regularly scheduled weekly meeting or have a special meeting depending on when the deliverable was needed. Austin is careful to turn things around before when he says he can have them and allows us plenty of time to review.

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

We primarily worked with Austin. He ran point on the various projects we had/have going on with Pen & Mug.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

From our brand guide, top consultants logo, ebook designs, landing page designs, we have been extremely pleased with Pen & Mug's work.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Besides the pure talent of Pen & Mug's team, this is my favorite aspect of working with them. Communication and workflow are seamless. Austin has always been very conscious about ensuring communication has happened.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Two things:

1. speed
2. kindness

The team was highly responsive to emails and always amiable to every call.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

No improvements from my perspective.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the co-founder of the nonprofit Corner to Corner and founder of The IEP Mom, which provides help for exceptional-education students and their families.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Pen & Mug?

I needed help with branding, especially logo design.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

I hired Pen & Mug independently for The IEP Mom. Initially, they sent me a couple of questionnaires to see the root of what I wanted. I was starting from scratch, so I realized what I wanted the brand to be through those assessments. The team helped me nail down the logo, and they delivered it along with a banner for the website.

What is the team composition?

I worked directly with Austin (Director).

How did you come to work with Pen & Mug?

I’d met Austin before because Pen & Mug had worked with my nonprofit. I liked Austin’s positivity, and he was very quick and responsive.

How much have you invested with them?

We probably spent about $800.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from February–March 2021.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

They gave me a polished, professional look — I’ve actually had to turn stuff down because I got too much work. Also, I’ve used the logo on social media and awesome branding products.

How did Pen & Mug perform from a project management standpoint?

They exceeded my expectations. It went way faster than I was expecting. When they’d tell me they’d have something for me, they’d have it early or by then.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I wasn’t expecting it, but it was more of a partnership. I thought I’d just tell them what I wanted and they’d give me the product, but there were more steps along the way in terms of feedback and changes. Nonetheless, I was almost immediately happy with what they delivered.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I was exceedingly pleased with them. They blew it out of the water.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

If you’re going to hire them, trust the process. They know what they’re doing, and the team is capable of delivering.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the head of marketing and design for Ask Joe DiMatteo, a website in conjunction with a 20-year old radio show and video series. We give instructive information on pharmaceuticals and natural health products, and we sell supplements.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Pen & Mug?

We’d had the same site and design language for almost a decade, and we needed to update both. However, our primary clientele doesn’t take well to change, so we wanted to be very cognizant of that. Our watchwords for the project were evolution, not revolution; we wanted to make changes that wouldn’t scare our customers away.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Pen & Mug is designing our new website. I met with them a couple of times to look through the existing site. Then, they started working on variations and options, gave me several directions we could take, and I selected the one I thought would be best. 

From there, Pen & Mug took off with the redesign, making changes as they went based on my feedback. Using the previous site as a foundation, Pen & Mug has modernized our site. They’ve re-interpreted, re-iterated, and rebuilt the site’s design language. We use Squarespace as a platform, and the team has fully customized the design, including logo, font, color, and spacing. 

What is the team composition?

I work with Jeremy (Web Developer), and my primary contact is Austin (Founder).

How did you come to work with Pen & Mug?

I found them through a mutual friend whose sense of design and styling I respect quite a bit. I called him and asked if he was available or knew anyone who was, and he pointed me toward Pen & Mug. 

How much have you invested with them?

So far, we’ve spent around $10,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in May 2021, and the engagement is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement? 

Every person I’ve shared Pen & Mug’s design with has gotten really excited about it. We haven’t launched the new site yet because our company wants to slow-walk the process. However, I don’t doubt that it’ll get a huge response, and I’m eagerly anticipating it.

Pen & Mug has been incredibly responsive to my needs; they listen and respond appropriately. Moreover, they’re creative and productive. Not only that, but they have the best form of creativity in that they keep the end in mind — which in this case is profit. Sometimes designers can’t see the forest for the trees and get too excited about artistic expression. Meanwhile, Pen & Mug understands our financial goals and has done an excellent job of keeping that forefront in everything they plan and do.

How did Pen & Mug perform from a project management standpoint?

They’ve been incredibly responsive, and they deliver things on time 100% of the time. We use emails and phone calls to communicate.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I’m impressed by Pen & Mug’s approachable professionalism. They’re consistently professional while not being cold or hard to talk to, which I really appreciate. Additionally, Pen & Mug keeps the end in mind. They clearly know the goal, keep pointing in that direction, and don’t get lost in the process. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I can’t think of anything they need to improve.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I would say trust Pen & Mug and their process. If you hire people you trust, let them do what they do and not get in their way.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Marketing Director of PLAY Sporting Lounge

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We are a sports bar with interactive sports suites.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Pen & Mug to accomplish?

• Website development to get a website design & launch across the finish line

SOLUTION

How did you find Pen & Mug?

Referral

Why did you select Pen & Mug over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Referred to me

How many teammates from Pen & Mug were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Take the website design we were given and built it out to create a working, beautiful website that is responsive across all devices

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Completed our tasks in a helpful and timely manner. Consulted and provided new ideas where we needed. Pushed our website launch over the finish line so that our online presence aligned with our in person.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Super helpful and time oriented. Always asked for deadlines and met them.

What was your primary form of communication with Pen & Mug?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They provide great communication, presentation, and work ethic. Finds creative ways to complete and exceed project expectations.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Pen & Mug could have done differently?

nope :)

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Development & Communications Specialist of Nashville Humane Association

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Nashville Humane Association helps thousands of pets find loving homes each year while working to keep animals healthy, safe, and with their families across Middle Tennessee.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Pen & Mug to accomplish?

• Design of the NHA 2025 Impact Report

SOLUTION

How did you find Pen & Mug?

Referral

Why did you select Pen & Mug over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Referred to me

How many teammates from Pen & Mug were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Visual design for the 2025 Impact Report document (both print & digital versions) + marketing materials to support the report. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Our 2025 Impact Report received great reviews from staff, volunteers, and the community. The booklet was clean, easy to understand, and impactful across all areas of our mission. We were able to still get all of our statistics across this year, but in a smaller, easily digestible format. 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

They delivered items on time, kept our team in the loop throughout the process, and responded quickly and professionally to feedback and changes. 

What was your primary form of communication with Pen & Mug?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They took the time to know our team and mission personally. 

Are there any areas for improvement or something Pen & Mug could have done differently?

NA

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Founder & Chairman of Bureau Consulting Group

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Economic litigation consulting company and financial research foundation

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Pen & Mug to accomplish?

• Starting from an initial homepage design, Pen & Mug defined style guides for the website, designed additional pages, and built the full website. ​

SOLUTION

How did you find Pen & Mug?

Online Search

Why did you select Pen & Mug over others?

• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost

How many teammates from Pen & Mug were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Design mockups of website pages for approval. Develop and test the website. Provide website training sessions and videos.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The staff at Pen & Mug were wonderful to work with. Very professional, smart, and attentive. The measurable outcomes involved producing a very handsome and functional website for my business. My clients and colleagues have all expressed high praise for the website. 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

The team was prompt, met timelines, and provided work product efficiently. Very easy to work with.

What was your primary form of communication with Pen & Mug?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They have vibrant personnel who operate at a very sophisticated level.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Pen & Mug could have done differently?

Honestly, I do not have any suggestions for improvement. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m an event producer for Big Machine Label Group, a leading music company that manages multiple record labels, a publishing company, and a digital radio station. We represent top artists across country and pop music.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Pen & Mug?

We needed help with signage for our events.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Pen & Mug handled our signage needs, including stage scrims, sponsor signage, video boards, credential design, and site signage. The team also took care of any creative elements that happened at the event.

What is the team composition?

We worked with four teammates from Pen & Mug.

How did you come to work with Pen & Mug?

I found Pen & Mug through Austin.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from April–September 2025.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Pen & Mug delivered beautiful signage that we put up on-site. Everything looked great, the messages were clear, the design was creative, and our sponsors were happy. Overall, it was a job well done.

How did Pen & Mug perform from a project management standpoint?

Pen & Mug always delivered on or ahead of time, even with last-minute requests.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Austin and his team were the best in the business. They were extremely quick and efficient, and their work was excellent. Moreover, they had positive attitudes and great teamwork.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can’t think of anything for Pen & Mug to improve.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of Marketing & Communications of Gilda's Club Middle Tennessee

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee uplifts and strengthens people impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities, and breaking down barriers to care.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Pen & Mug to accomplish?

Marketing & branding of our comprehensive campaign

SOLUTION

How did you find Pen & Mug?

Referral

Why did you select Pen & Mug over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Pen & Mug were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Our goal was to find a marketing and media partner with a commitment to our mission to support a three-year Comprehensive Campaign. The Campaign will enable Gilda’s Club to secure a central location, easy to access, near healthcare, provide increased free parking, with outside spaces for programs, and a stand-alone building. The Campaign will also raise funds for operations and endowment thus, it is a Comprehensive Campaign.
 
Goals
Support Gilda's Club in meeting and exceeding the Comprehensive Campaign fundraising goals
Increase awareness for GCMTN.
Increase current donor engagement and involvement.
Attract new contributors, volunteers and advocates. 
 
Key Deliverables
Brand Guide for Comprehensive Campaign 
Public Relations/Media Support 
Printed Campaign Materials  
Digital Campaign Materials (including video and photography assets) 
Campaign website landing page 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The project is still in progress. 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

The Pen & Mug team has been efficient and organized in the area of project management. Timelines have never been pushed due to a missed deadline. All of our materials have been neatly organized and are accessible to us at any time and whatever format we need them in. The team has been so flexible with us and generous with their time and talent. 

What was your primary form of communication with Pen & Mug?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

We chose to work with Pen & Mug because of the energy they brought to the table. This is a long project and finding the right partner was crucial for us. We are a very small nonprofit and new that we would essentially need any extension to our team during this campaign. Austin and Rachel showed they cared about our organization and mission right from the start and we truly felt that commitment from the first meeting we had. 
They spent a great deal of time learning who we are and what we do before we even chose them as our partners, and that made them stand out. They are great listeners and always open working through a design or project until it is exactly what we are looking for. Not all design firms are as generous with their time, and I cannot say enough about Pen & Mug's flexibilty with us as we navigate this campaign.  

Are there any areas for improvement or something Pen & Mug could have done differently?

I really don't think so. The project is still ongoing and we are continuing to enjoy working with Pen & Mug and are excited to do so int he future.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Founder of The Tiger Den Group

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We are a biomedical research nonprofit.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Pen & Mug to accomplish?

• Build a website that would allow for us to evolve and to share our mission to all who support.

SOLUTION

How did you find Pen & Mug?

Referral

Why did you select Pen & Mug over others?

• Close to my geographic location
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Referred to me

How many teammates from Pen & Mug were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We needed to build a website that would allow us to track members, donors, and corporate supporters. We met all deadlines, from the home page's design to the website's key sections.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

1. Whiteboard Layout of the website 
2. First look at the website 
3. Key sections of the website completed for live launch 
4. Final review of the website

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Yes, they delivered on time and always responded in less than 2 hours for questions.

What was your primary form of communication with Pen & Mug?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They are a young group, but they come from a Fortune 50 background and can deliver impressive results.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Pen & Mug could have done differently?

Not for me.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

 I am the Chief Creative Officer of a consumer products company 

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Tabletop Game Publisher

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Pen & Mug to accomplish?

• Custom Shopify Website
• Outsourced Creative Team

SOLUTION

How did you find Pen & Mug?

Referral

Why did you select Pen & Mug over others?

• Close to my geographic location
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Pen & Mug were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

• Create a fun, exciting ecommerce website (built on Shopify) that enables both retail and wholesale selling.
• Operate as outsourced creative team – providing graphic design, motion graphics, photography and more. 
• Design the visual brand identity. Build off the logo and color palette that existed already and create a dynamic brand system that works cohesively across all digital + print communications. 
• Regular meetings and lock-step partnership.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Consistent positive feedback from retailers, industry leaders, and consumers about website experience, visual brand identity, and social media engagement ideas. 
• Streamlined wholesale ordering process praised by retail partners as well thought out, intuitive, and efficient.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

The Pen & Mug team consistently over delivers. They set expectations for timelines, and they consistently meet or exceed them. They are flexible, which is key to the success of our partnership, and their general attitude and investment in our business growth lets us share in a feeling that "our" project is truly a team effort.

What was your primary form of communication with Pen & Mug?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Pen & Mug truly feels like part of our team. They are genuinely interested in the success and growth of our company, and this shows through their work and overall demeanor. They celebrate the wins and brainstorms the setbacks in a way that feels much greater than simply an outsourced team. It is a collaborative partnership that has been integral to our growth. We would be lost without them!

Are there any areas for improvement or something Pen & Mug could have done differently?

None.