I just joined Contra and I’m still figuring out how things work around here, so I thought I’d introduce myself instead of quietly lurking.

I’m Mariya, founder, strategist and lead designer behind Mariya Design. I’ve worked internationally since 2015, and today I run a boutique branding studio focused on brand identity systems for premium and luxury-led brands.

Most of my work sits somewhere between identity, packaging and the wider system around them. I’m particularly interested in what happens after the logo: how typography, color, packaging, digital applications and brand rules actually hold together as the business grows.

One project I’ve been revisiting recently is SAE-REN, a premium beauty and wellness identity system. I’m currently rebuilding some of my case-study presentation system, so it felt like a good one to share here first.

And since I’m genuinely new to Contra, I’d love to hear from people who have been active here for a while:

What actually helped you become part of the community here?

Was it sharing work regularly, joining conversations, applying to opportunities, or something else entirely?

Any early mistakes worth avoiding are welcome too.

great designs..

A look at the identity we designed for Vetti, a dog health monitoring brand.

There’s a lot of data behind a product like this but the person using it just wants to know their dog is okay.

That’s the balance in the design with a connected dot system that feels precise and warm colors and photography that keep it close to what people care about.

Also, an excellent excuse to spend far too long choosing dog photos.

Really nice balance between data-driven technology and the emotional side of pet care. The connected dot system is a great way to make something technical feel approachable, and the warm photography really brings the brand closer to the pet owners.💯