Transform ideas into brands that connect
Emerging in 2023, Heartwork Design Co. infuses passion and purpose into every design we craft — creating visually compelling and emotionally resonant work that deeply connects with audiences.
About Heartwork
Where passion meets professional execution
Heartwork Design Co. was born from a belief that every brand deserves design created with both strategy and heart.
Our Origin
From MARC Designs to Heartwork Design Co.
What began as MARC Designs in 2015 — a solo creative practice built on hustle, curiosity, and a deep love for visual storytelling — evolved into Heartwork Design Co. in 2023, a strategic creative agency serving brands that want more than templates and quick fixes.
The evolution wasn't just a name change. It reflected a maturation of process, positioning, and purpose. MARC Designs proved that great work could come from passion and self-teaching. Heartwork Design Co. builds on that foundation with structured strategy, premium execution, and a commitment to being a true creative partner.
Founder Story
Marcus McGhee's journey
Born and raised in Lancaster, CA — a self-taught designer who turned curiosity into craft, and craft into a career.
Graphic design stole Marcus's heart back in high school. When UC Berkeley didn't offer a Graphic Design major, he thought, "Challenge accepted!" He became his own teacher, honing his skills along the way. Fast forward to 2015, and MARC Designs was born — to shake things up and make a real difference for small businesses.
Over 10+ years, Marcus has completed more than 2,000 projects spanning brand systems, websites, marketing campaigns, event graphics, executive presentations, digital assets, print materials, and visual experiences. His clients include startups, small businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions, community organizations, Divine Nine and Greek-letter organizations, events, childcare brands, technology companies, and personal brands.
Experience highlights
- Brand identity systems for nonprofits and community orgs
- Full website design for consulting and childcare brands
- Event graphics and conference promotion materials
- Marketing campaigns and social media design systems
- Executive presentation decks and pitch materials
- Ongoing creative direction and design retainers
The Name
Why "Heartwork"?
"Heartwork" captures what we believe design should be — work done with genuine care, emotional intelligence, and personal investment in every client's success. It's not just our job. It's our heart's work. The name also honors the creative emphasis on art within the craft — because great design is both strategic and expressive.
"Your brand's journey is our heart's work."
Design that moves culture forward
Our vision is to create a world where design evokes emotion, sets standards, and inspires lasting connections between brands and audiences.
What guides every project
Heart & Hustle — Passion and purpose in every pixel.
Emotion — Design that forges genuine connections.
Strategy — Research before pixels.
Impact — Heartfelt solutions that leave a lasting mark.
10+
Years experience
2,000+
Projects delivered
12+
Industries served
1
Heartwork philosophy
Who We Serve
Brands across industries and communities
Education
Institutions, programs, and academic events
Nonprofits
Mission-driven organizations and coalitions
Startups
Early-stage brands building credibility
Small Business
Growing brands needing professional presence
Greek Organizations
Divine Nine and Greek-letter org graphics
Events
Conferences, galas, and community gatherings
Childcare
Consulting brands and childcare programs
Personal Brands
Leaders, creators, and entrepreneurs
Working Philosophy
Collaboration built on trust
Marcus approaches every project as a partnership. That means listening before designing, explaining the strategy behind creative decisions, and keeping clients informed at every stage. You're never left guessing what happens next or why a design choice was made.
We believe the best work happens when clients feel heard, respected, and confident in the process. That's why Heartwork Design Co. invests in structured workflows, clear communication, and deliverables that exceed expectations.
Ready to work with a creative partner who gets it?
Let's talk about your brand, your goals, and how Heartwork can help you get there.