Della Mueller
Q What do you do?
“I’m a multidisciplinary designer bringing visual worlds to life through creative branding and dynamic websites.”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
Lots of twists, turns, and spirals, as it usually goes. I earned a degree in Sustainable Design, took up an interest in permaculture, dabbled in textile design, learned how to tattoo, and eventually stumbled into web design when a friend launched her own business and needed help building an online presence. I realized the process was this perfect blend of creativity, purpose, and problem-solving that really clicked with me, and once I started learning how to code I felt like a whole new world of possibilities opened up. Now I get to connect with all kinds of creative individuals and support their business endeavors while getting to design, illustrate, code, and bring new visual worlds to life.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
In an industry that tends to glamorize the hustle, I prefer to prioritize connection and work at a pace that's conducive to creativity. It takes time to really get to know a client’s business and to allow the vision for a project to unfold, and I find that’s where the most creative, authentic, and timeless work is born. My intention is always to figure out how to elevate the work my client is doing and finding the best method of honoring and showcasing it.
Q What are you working on right now?
I’m currently working on a branding and website project for a local massage therapist, and am preparing for an upcoming project with a Bay Area landscape designer.
Q What’s your style?
My style is highly adaptable and attuned to each brand I collaborate with, but I think my clients are often drawn to the sense of curiosity and exploration I evoke through my designs. I like to bring in a sense of playfulness — even to more ‘professional’ projects — and I frequently draw inspiration from print media, especially when it comes to layouts, fonts, and tactile qualities.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Film photography has always been a favorite means of connecting with my surroundings and I’ve been wanting to put together a photo book to share with the world. I also love to tattoo my friends and would like to find a way to weave that into my life on a more regular basis.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
As someone who is trying to grow my business while prioritizing my mental health, it can be tough to find the distance from social media that I crave. The way social media, marketing, and finding clients are so entwined is both a blessing and a curse. That and, you know, systems of power.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Honestly I like wearing a lot of different hats at work, but if someone could make me a delicious, nutritious lunch everyday that would be super helpful.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
When I was first starting out I would have told myself that it’s gonna take time, practice, and devotion, but just trust that eventually you’ll have the skills to bring all of those juicy, creative visions to life.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I’m eager to learn more about the world of packaging design and print. Much of my design work remains in the digital realm and it would be awesome to see more of it on shop shelves, pasted on walls, or stacked on coffee tables.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m always excited about working with artists, queer folks, and passionate people with bold ideas. Some specific clients I’m trying to call in this coming year include...
• a cool wine bar or restaurant (let me design your branding/menus/merch!)
• furniture maker
• publishing company
• tattoo artist
• musician
• architecture firm
• something to do with bikes, I love biking
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
Some things that allow this work to feel exciting and fulfilling for me:
• When a client embraces my vision and trusts my process <3
• When a client is excited about and committed to the project. If you’re stoked for this next phase of your business, if you’re super passionate about what you do, if you’re all in, I will absolutely match your energy and meet you there!
• Genuinely connecting with a client and getting to work together in a really collaborative way. For me, rich connection is what life is all about and if I can bring that into my work it's an absolute treat. Let’s enjoy the process.
• Projects that are rooted in positive social or cultural change are a huge bonus – they keep me motivated and inspired.
Q: What is your rate?
I outline my latest offerings and pricing on the services page of my website. I also offer reduced sliding scale rates for BIPOC folks who otherwise wouldn’t have access to my services, so if this is you please let me know when you reach out.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
If you’re interested in hiring me for a project I have a brief client application on my website that you can fill out. Once I receive that, I’ll be in touch to schedule a free 30-minute intro call so we can connect and see if we’re a good fit before booking.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
I am endlessly inspired by Anna Fusco’s art and musings, Sunroom’s risograph prints, Pea’s design and creative wisdom, and the bold and brilliant websites created by Sometimes Always.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Prioritize fun, pleasure, and play!
This member profile was originally published in February 2023, Updated February 2025.