Have you heard the news? Mornings with WBUR just got a little brighter (and smarter!). We’re thrilled to introduce the WBUR Breakfast Club, a new monthly series designed to kickstart your day with thought-provoking conversations from leaders at the forefront of their fields.
We couldn’t have asked for a better inaugural event than our discussion featuring Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert and award-winning journalist Ari Shapiro. This powerful conversation delved into the most critical issues facing business leaders today, from environmental responsibility to navigate complex political landscapes.

Designing a Different Kind of Morning:
The energy surrounding the WBUR Breakfast Club presented a unique and exciting design opportunity. We wanted a brand identity that felt both professional and engaging, distinguishing itself from typical (and often somber) business events. My design direction focused on:

Leaning into ‘New Day Blue’: We decided to make a bold statement by leaning heavily into our secondary brand color, ‘New Day Blue’. This choice immediately feels fresh, optimistic, and energetic – a perfect fit for a morning gathering.
A Pop of ‘True Yellow’: We couldn’t forget our foundational identity! Strategically incorporating WBUR’s iconic ‘True Yellow’ provides a warm, sun-kissed accent that ties the series directly to the station and adds another layer of brightness.

Minimalist Lines and Shapes: To ground the color palette and ensure a clean, modern aesthetic, I utilized minimalist lines and geometric shapes. This approach not only looks sophisticated but also allows the vibrant colors to take center stage.
Versatility for Every Touchpoint:
One of the key requirements was creating a design system that could seamlessly adapt to various platforms. The combination of clean lines, bold colors, and a clear visual language makes it highly functional. You’ll see this aesthetic consistently applied across all the Breakfast Club’s branded elements:
- Print Materials: Posters, flyers, and on-site signage.
- Web Presence: Dedicate landing pages, email graphics, and social media assets.
- Live Event Elements: Stage backdrop designs, boards, and presentation graphics.

Standing Out with Brightness:
The true beauty of this design direction is how it differentiates the WBUR Breakfast Club. It’s a departure from the traditional, muted tones often associated with business forums. By embracing a more vibrant and optimistic color story, we’ve created a unique space for thoughtful dialogue that reflects the positive spirit of WBUR and its community.
Stay Tuned for More Bright Mornings:
The WBUR Breakfast Club is more than just a series; it’s an invitation to start your month with fresh perspectives and meaningful connections. We can’t wait to share the brilliant minds and insightful conversations the future holds.
What are some of the design elements you look for in a morning event series? Share your thoughts here!
Check out this conversation with Bombas founders and journalist Ari Shapiro:

