Mali Rezai
Brand Designer / Founder of Weird Friends Studio
Texas
www.itsweirdfriends.com
instagram @itsweirdfriends
Q What do you do?
“Graphic Designer specializing in branding and Squarespace websites, I run Weird Friends Studio, where we craft design experiences that are anything but basic.”
We help brave visionaries and creative entrepreneurs turn bold ideas into powerful visuals, blending top-tier design principles, hand-crafted techniques, + a bit of weird magic. 💫
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
My journey started with a BFA in Graphic Design and over 10 years working professionally in environmental design. Before starting my own studio I was employed at one of the world's top architecture firms, specializing in brand activation, signage + wayfinding. I am an avid traveler, wanderer, and adventurer. Many of my life experiences I’ve gained by the fearless pursuit of jumping into the unknown. And that courage led me to creating my own practice filled with passion and weird magic. I love working on projects and with people who aren't afraid to take chances and show up fearlessly in life AND business.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
Weird Friends Studio isn’t just a name; it’s a promise. We know the rules and also know when to break them. We approach projects with curiosity and an playful spirit. Our work is elevated, hand-crafted, and meticulously tailored—never basic, always bespoke.
Q What are you working on right now?
We're currently immersed in exciting branding and web projects for creative entrepreneurs who are leaders in their field. Our clients span diverse industries, including a New York-based editorial consultant and book editor/coach, a furniture and interiors consultant with a knack for sourcing unique materials from all over the world, and a luxury women's golf brand redefining style on and off the course.
Q What’s your style?
Think vintage ephemera meets contemporary edge, with a strong dose of storytelling. We love tactile, hand-crafted elements that feel bespoke and one-of-a-kind. Our recent work for Seventy-one Golf was rooted in concept + combined rich textures, illustrative graphic elements, and a hand-drawn logotype to create a nostalgic and elevated brand.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I’d love to dive deeper into art direction, using my passion for photography, layout, and type to bring brand stories to life in cinematic ways.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Prioritizing studio marketing within my content strategy. These efforts tend to slip to the bottom of my list as client projects take center stage.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I'd have them handle content marketing. Making sure we are posting across all social channels like LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Instagram. Helping with ad management and analyzing metrics so we know where to focus our efforts.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
In 2020, when I was at a crossroads, I wish I’d had the confidence to double down on my unique voice and vision without second-guessing. Understanding that everything doesn't have to be perfect to get started. The only way to know what will work is to find out and not be afraid to pivot through you're own growth and understanding which can only happen through f*ing around and finding out.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Expansion in a sustainable way - how to scale services, generate more leads, and call in more aligned clients with the goal of staying true to my values, style, and ethos.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
Partnerships with bold creatives who aren’t afraid to go against the grain and bet on themselves. Collaborations with innovative brands that want to push creative boundaries and stand out.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
The dream client? Someone who trusts the process, craves uniqueness, and is ready to build something that stands out. I've been very lucky that my past clients trust my expertise and my style and know that the deep work is in understanding the vision completely so that we can create from a place of curiosity, exploration, + clarity.
Q: What is your rate?
Branding + website packages range from $4,000 - $6500 which includes comprehensive brand strategy and design. Custom quotes available for more complex projects. Consultation and mentoring sessions are available, starting at $150/hour.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
To inquire about a design project / collaboration please visit our website and fill out the inquiry form. You can also email mali@itsweirdfriends.com directly with any questions / collab opportunities!
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Lory Lyon — Photographer
www.lorylyon.com @lorylyon.photography
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Stay curious, explore endlessly, get weird. ✨
This member profile was originally published in November 2024.