Originally (and proudly) from Memphis, Tennessee — aka The Home of Rock ‘n’ Roll — I've boogied on down the road to Nashville, where I currently live.
In addition to playing bass guitar, I ventured into design in high school — when I drummed up some flyers for the terrible bands I played in. It's a good thing I did: I've managed to turn a hobby into a gainful career. Largely self-taught, I've put in the sweat equity, as they say.
Full-time, I am a Senior Art Director at FMS in Franklin, TN, a niche agency that partners with banks, helping them become brands.
Previously, I designed brands alongside the incredibly talented team at Focus Lab (2020-23). Before that, I honed my UI design skills with Caddis and Lewis Communications (2016-2020). And for well over a decade, I’ve handled a fair amount of freelance and contract work.
I guess I like to stay busy — my wife Christine would tell you I'm a dude with limitless hobbies. When I'm not hanging out with her (and our dog Freckles, a Lab mix), you'll find me rooting for the Memphis Grizzlies or smashing metcons at the CrossFit gym. Or jumping in a pick-up basketball game. On the links. Pickleballing. Grabbing 35mm snaps. Maybe reading and learning new things. Exploring new tunes. Even playing that old bass guitar.
But wherever I am and whatever I'm doing, I always appreciate meeting new folks. So, thanks for stopping by. Give me a shout if you'd like to chat.
NEW
Now Offering White Label Service
If you're running an agency, studio, or an in-house design team that’s experiencing a busy season or in between hires, our white-label design service is here to back you up.
Hire a seasoned branding and design expert with a proven track record, get premium design work, all at a low cost with zero overhead.
Bud can embed within your team and easily adapt to your process when your team’s slammed or in a period of transition.
Art Direction Branding & Identity Logo Design Graphic Design Print & Packaging UX/UI Design Web Design
Advertising Illustration Custom Typography Naming Strategy Brand Messaging Copywriting Creative Consultation
Select Clients
FMS
Ceremony
Array
Platoon
Focus Lab Odi Lewis Communications Caddis Contrast Visuals Campaign Monitor Emma Luminate Speakeasy
Tango
Robin Artifact Simple Elastic Path Salesloft
Magnite Via Citrus Victorious
Olio
Everything Policy
The Artists Colony Hotel Smith7 Records
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With more than a decade of experience, Bud Thomas designs brand and identity systems that are equal parts strategic, conceptual, useful, and beautiful.
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