Who We Are

We are a multi-talented team with a half-century of experience and heritage in craft; expertise in a wide range of industries, skills, and interests; and a long-term, results-oriented mindset in building and growing brands. In short, we are expert brand storytellers.

GIRVIN was founded by Tim Girvin in 1973 and is one of the longest-running, privately held, continuously operating brand strategy and design firms in North America.

We started in retail—branding, environmental design, and sign painting—which led to motion picture and theatrical branding, and evolved into identity work and packaging for clients around the world.

Today, we’re a multi-talented team with expertise in strategy, messaging, naming, identity, print, packaging, environments, and more. Our curiosity and worldwide explorations have led us to create powerful brand solutions for beauty, hospitality, food and beverage, entertainment, technology, and retail.

Grounded in craftsmanship and a legacy of success

Intentional in our connections with people

Results-oriented creative solutions for building and growing businesses

Value-driven strategic design and visual storytelling

Inquisitive, intelligent, and insightful

Nimble and adaptable

What We Believe

We believe that every brand has a soul—built by humans, for humans, they have their own stories and journeys, which we harness and tell in authentic, creative, and compelling ways.

The etymology of the word “soul” is an ancient word that comes from “journey” which has its prototypical origins in the word for “sea”—presuming the crossing of a life narrative, the story of a life.

Tim, an avid PNW coast surfer, likens our methodology and philosophy to the transformative power, depth, and flow of the sea. We dive deep into discovery, taking calculated risks while keeping the shore in sight; we ride the wave of creativity, and watch the far-off waves to gauge the future.

We ride the wave of creativity, and watch the far-off waves to gauge the future.

We believe the sea is a metaphor for creativity and design.
As a people-first creative agency, we listen and connect intentionally with the people behind the brand to get to the deep heart of its purpose and personality so that its identity can find cohesive expression in voice and visuals.

Where We Are

Our headquarters recently moved locations! Don’t worry, we’re still in Seattle (see our contact page for the exact address). If you’re in the area, drop by sometime for an in-person meeting with Tim. Our cozy office is situated on Queen Anne hill in a newly renovated office in the historic Queen Anne High School condominiums.