a Creative Studio With Sustainability At Its Heart
At Branch & Bay Design Studio, we believe that design should do more than just look good—it should feel good, too. Beautiful visuals are a powerful tool, and we craft them to help your brand stand out, spark connection, and communicate your mission with clarity and impact. When your design speaks directly to your audience’s hearts, it drives action.
We work with purpose-driven brands and organizations that care about people and the planet—helping them elevate their branding, websites, and marketing with bold, creative design that is as beautiful as it is impactful. Your visual identity isn’t just about being seen—it’s about being remembered and trusted- further advancing your mission for a more sustainable world. That’s why we fuse gorgeous, high-quality design with purpose-driven storytelling to create an experience that resonates and moves people to act.
As a design studio, we believe we have a responsibility to make conscious decisions that benefit the environment and climate.
Our design philosophy is rooted in intersectional environmentalism, understanding that true sustainability and justice go hand-in-hand. We’re committed to creating design that is not only beautiful but also inclusive, accessible, and empowering. We infuse every project with purpose and care, from eco-friendly materials, to crafting messaging that speaks to your values and builds meaningful relationships.
When you work with us, you’re not just getting a design studio—you’re getting a creative partner who is just as excited and energized about your mission as you are! Let’s build something that looks amazing and does wonderful things for your business, your community, and the planet. Together, we’ll grow a more sustainable future—one beautiful brand at a time.
Sustainability
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Ethical Responsibility
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Connection
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Honesty
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Kindness
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Creativity
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Empathy
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Care
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Sustainability 𖠰 Ethical Responsibility 𖠰 Connection 𖠰 Honesty 𖠰 Kindness 𖠰 Creativity 𖠰 Empathy 𖠰 Care 𖠰

Our Core Values
Rooted in ethics, sustainability, and creativity, our work is guided by kindness, honesty, and empathy—ensuring every brand we create puts people and the planet first. We value connection and approach design as a tool for storytelling, community-building, and real impact. With thoughtful strategy and stunning visuals, we help purpose-driven brands grow, thrive, and create a better world.
Sustainability
𖠰
Ethical Responsibility
𖠰
Connection
𖠰
Honesty
𖠰
Kindness
𖠰
Creativity
𖠰
Empathy
𖠰
Care
𖠰
Sustainability 𖠰 Ethical Responsibility 𖠰 Connection 𖠰 Honesty 𖠰 Kindness 𖠰 Creativity 𖠰 Empathy 𖠰 Care 𖠰
Outdoor Enthusiast | Environmentalist | Artist
about Sarah
Our founder, Sarah Stermer, has been championing the planet since childhood—starting an environmental superhero club in third grade and planting over 2,000 trees in Virginia Beach and Haiti as a teen. With a knack for creativity and a heart for change, she’s always found ways to blend design, storytelling, and environmental action.
Sarah holds a B.A. in Environmental Studies from Virginia Wesleyan University and a Graduate Certificate in Graphic and Digital Design from Parsons School of Design. Her background in the nonprofit sector has allowed her to support organizations in environmental education, child welfare, food security, and beyond—using design to amplify their impact.
Now, she partners with sustainability-focused businesses to craft thoughtful, strategic, and visually stunning brands, websites, and marketing materials that inspire action.
Originally from Virginia, she draws creative energy from the beaches, forests, and bays of the East Coast.
When she’s not bringing brands to life, you can find her:
Collaging and journaling in her sketchbook
Exploring hiking trails and spending time in nature
Checking out way too many books at the library
Hunting for quirky stationery in local gift shops
Ready to create a brand that’s as impactful as your mission? Let’s make something beautiful—together.