Strategic. Bespoke. Built to Last.
Northern Toad is a one-person studio with 17+ years of experience behind every project. I work with startups, established businesses, nonprofits, and everything in between — bringing the same strategic thinking and creative rigor whether the budget is modest or the scope is massive. No account managers. No handoffs. Just focused, experienced design work that moves your brand forward.
(re)BRANDING
A brand is more than a logo — it's the first impression, the lasting memory, and every touchpoint in between. Whether you're launching something new or evolving something established, I'll help you build a brand identity that's strategic, cohesive, and unmistakably yours. Logos, color systems, typography, messaging, brand guidelines — I handle the full picture.
PACKAGING DESIGN
Great packaging doesn't just look good on the shelf — it works. I bring deep knowledge of materials, production processes, and print specifications to every packaging project, so what gets designed actually gets made — correctly, on brand, and on budget. From concept through press-ready files, I know this world inside and out.
CREATIVE SERVICES
Not every project fits a neat category — and that's fine. I've spent 17+ years delivering print and digital design across a wide range of industries and formats. Brochures, advertising campaigns, posters, apparel graphics, event materials, social assets — if it needs to look good and communicate clearly, I can help.
BOOK DESIGN & LAYOUT
Your words deserve design that honors them. I bring the same strategic eye to book covers and interior layouts that I bring to every project — thoughtful typography, clean structure, and a deep respect for the reading experience. Whether it's a personal memoir, an educational series, or a publication you're proud to put your name on, I'll make it look the part.
NONPROFITS
I understand the unique pressures nonprofits face — limited budgets, high expectations, and the constant need to communicate your mission with credibility. I've worked with nonprofits for years and I know how to be the design partner you actually need: reliable, responsive, experienced, and fully invested in your cause.
The Origin of Northern Toad
The name Northern Toad didn't come from a mood board — it came from life. From childhood memories of toads on misty summer streets, to a mountain proposal, to a toad sighting on our honeymoon that felt less like coincidence and more like confirmation. These quiet creatures have shown up at every meaningful turn.
For over 17 years, that same spirit of discovery has shaped how I approach design. Every brand has its own path to find. I'm here to help you navigate it.
Let's talk about your project →
Some of the brands I've had the pleasure of working with.
Kind Words
“I LOVED the process I went through with Tom to design the @groundworkPTboston branding. What's amazing is that I really liked all of the starting point designs that were presented — no duds. I just fell in love with the one we ended up with more!”
Katie Lee, PT/DPT/OCS
Owner of Groundwork PT
“Tom is a creative and dedicated professional. He has designed several logos and graphics for Nederlander Concerts with tight deadlines and always met our needs. We have truly enjoyed working with Tom and will continue to seek his services.”
Vanessa Kromer
Formerly of Nederlander Concerts
“Tom produces top-quality print and web design on a daily basis, and has extensive knowledge of both printing processes and web coding. He meticulously thinks projects through from beginning to end.”
