Brat-Tomat: A Playful Identity for a Gardening Brand

Brat-Tomat is a local plant brand from Saint Petersburg that encourages people of all ages to grow their own food — starting with cherry tomatoes — at home or in their summer gardens. I was brought on to develop a full brand identity from scratch, with the goal of creating a fresh, unconventional visual system that would stand out on the shelf and appeal to both younger and older audiences.

I led the creative direction and executed all key deliverables: brand naming, logo design, mascot characters, illustration system, packaging, stickers, poster design, infographics, and a variety of print materials. The entire identity is rooted in the themes of sustainability and joy — all print items were produced using recycled paper, and the visual language is warm, playful, and character-driven.

At the heart of the brand is “Brat-Tomat” (Brother Tomato) — the central character who embodies the brand's voice. He’s joined by two friendly sidekicks, each representing one of the three cherry tomato varieties. These characters not only differentiate the product lines but also form a mini narrative of a tomato trio growing together on your windowsill — creating emotional connection and visual storytelling that engages both kids and adults.

The brand debuted across local eco markets, garden fairs, and select online platforms. At its first summer fair, Brat-Tomat sold over 100 seedlings and 180+ seed packs, gaining attention from a younger, urban audience typically disengaged from gardening. Despite a slightly higher price point, the brand consistently ranks among top sellers in its category on local marketplaces.

This project blends environmental values with playful visual storytelling, proving that sustainability can be both responsible and full of personality.