The Mug Club is a candle and café concept that blends sustainability with community. Each candle is hand-poured into vintage-style ceramic mugs that can be reused after the candle burns out. Customers are invited to return their empty mugs for a discount on their next candle or a free drink, fostering a circular, eco-friendly experience. With a warm, playful identity, The Mug Club encourages people to slow down, savor the moment, and become part of a community that values both creativity and connection.
With this brand, I wanted to create a sense of nostalgia and warmth that draws customers in with its vintage charm. I chose a jewel-toned color palette to evoke the timeless appeal of retro aesthetics. These colors not only suggest a cozy and inviting atmosphere but also reflect the vintage vibe I envisioned for the café.
I chose to add the latte art swirl from the logo to the bottom of each mug as a subtle yet lasting brand detail. Since the candle labels are temporary, this small design element ensures that The Mug Club's identity remains even after the label is removed. It creates a thoughtful, cohesive brand experience, whether the mug is being used for coffee, repurposed at home, or returned for a refill. This hidden touch reinforced our connection to café culture while making each piece feel uniquely part of The Mug Club community.
To enhance the vintage and nostalgic atmosphere of The Mug Club, I incorporated a heavy use of illustrations throughout the branding. By using hand-drawn elements, I aimed to infuse a more personal, artisanal touch to the design. The illustrations serve as a nod to the handmade qualities often found in vintage items, evoking a sense of care and attention to detail that feels both welcoming and genuine.
