At Umber + Onyx, our name isn’t just a label—it’s a statement. It reflects the values, vision, and creativity that drive everything we do. The colors umber and onyx aren’t just visually striking; they carry meanings that resonate deeply with how we approach communications, storytelling, and connection.

From the grounded warmth of umber to the bold elegance of onyx, our name is a reflection of the balance we aim to strike in every project: intentional, thoughtful, and impactful. Here’s a closer look at what these elements mean to us—and how they shape everything we do.

Umber: Warmth, Earth, and Foundation

Umber is a rich, earthy tone—a color that feels grounded and inviting. Historically, umber has been used by artists as a foundational pigment. It’s where many great masterpieces begin: a base coat that anchors the composition.

For us, umber represents the foundation of our work. It’s the starting point, where we dig into your brand’s essence, your audience’s needs, and your goals. Like the pigment, umber is a reminder that every great story begins with clarity, depth, and intention.

Think about internal communications, for example. Without a strong foundation, employee engagement efforts can feel like surface-level noise. A clear, grounded strategy ensures that your team feels informed, aligned, and valued. It’s the kind of communication that builds trust and connection—just like umber provides the base for something extraordinary.

In short, umber is where authenticity lives. It’s the part of storytelling that feels real, relatable, and rooted in purpose.

Onyx: Bold, Elegant, and Impactful

Onyx, on the other hand, is striking, timeless, and bold. It’s not just the polish—it’s the statement. In ancient cultures, onyx was considered a symbol of strength and protection, and today it’s often associated with sophistication and confidence.

For us, onyx represents the creativity and innovation we bring to every project. It’s about pushing boundaries and crafting messaging that doesn’t just blend in but stands out.

Imagine a brand story that’s not just told but felt—one that makes your audience stop scrolling, lean in, and say, “That’s me.” That’s the onyx touch. It’s the part of our work that transforms solid messaging into something unforgettable. Whether we’re creating social media campaigns or designing DEI strategies, onyx reminds us to aim for boldness and impact every single time.

Onyx isn’t about playing it safe; it’s about being intentional in your approach and unapologetic in your delivery.

Together: The Balance of Substance and Style

What makes Umber + Onyx special isn’t just the individual elements—it’s how they work together. Umber provides the grounding, while onyx adds the flair. That balance of warmth and boldness mirrors how we approach every project.

Take brand storytelling, for example. Without substance, your story risks feeling hollow. Without style, it risks being ignored. By combining the depth of umber with the elegance of onyx, we ensure that your messaging is as thoughtful as it is memorable.

This balance also applies to our process. We don’t just jump into crafting bold campaigns—we start by listening deeply. Who are you as a brand? What are your values? Who is your audience? From there, we build intentionally, ensuring every element of your strategy aligns with your goals. And when it’s time to deliver, we do so boldly, knowing that your message has the foundation to stand strong and the creativity to make an impact.

The Why Behind the Name

When it came time to name this agency, we wanted something that reflected our mission and approach. We didn’t want just any name—we wanted one that felt intentional, just like the work we do. Umber and onyx are more than colors; they’re symbols of the care and thought we put into every project.

Umber reminds us that great messaging starts with substance. It’s about taking the time to get things right, laying the groundwork for communications that are meaningful and authentic. Onyx reminds us to be bold in our execution, to craft messaging that commands attention and leaves a lasting impression.

Together, they capture the duality of what makes Umber + Onyx unique: thoughtful and daring, grounded and innovative, classic and modern.

Why It Matters for You

This isn’t just about us—it’s about what Umber + Onyx can do for your brand. Whether you’re looking to revamp your internal communications, define your brand voice, or create a DEI campaign that resonates, our approach ensures your messaging is built to last.

When you work with us, you’re not getting a cookie-cutter strategy. You’re getting a team that cares about the details, understands the nuances of your audience, and knows how to create something that feels both grounded and extraordinary.

Because in a world full of noise, it’s the messages with substance and style that truly stand out.

Your Next Chapter

Choosing a name was one of the first steps in creating Umber + Onyx, and it’s a decision we reflect on with pride. This name isn’t just a reflection of who we are—it’s a promise to the clients and brands we serve.

So, why Umber? Why Onyx? Because together, they’re everything we aim to be—and everything we want your brand to become.

Ready to bring your story to life? Let’s create messaging that’s grounded, bold, and unforgettable.