Darin Hamm - Municipal Marketing

06/19/2026

Tomorrow, we launch Sweet Streets Athens Bakery Crawl, and if I'm honest, I'm feeling a mix of excitement, anticipation, and a little nervousness.

Creating events has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.

Long before tourism and destination marketing became my career, I found joy in bringing people together through experiences.

Over the years, I've helped organize chili cook-offs, three-on-three basketball tournaments, and community events while attending Grandview Church of Christ in Des Moines, Iowa. I've helped create a neighborhood party complete with a circus. I designed an Amazing Race-style adventure for Silver Maple Camp. I've been involved with an ultramarathon, a ghost tour, festivals, concerts, and countless community gatherings.

Each event was different, but they all shared the same purpose: creating moments that people would remember.

That's why Sweet Streets means so much to me. It's more than a bakery crawl. It's a chance to celebrate local businesses, encourage exploration, create memories with family and friends, and showcase the unique character of Athens.

Events are funny things. Months of planning, meetings, phone calls, graphics, sponsors, logistics, and problem-solving all come down to a few short hours. You never know exactly how they'll be received until people show up and make them their own.

Tomorrow, we'll find out.

I'm incredibly grateful to the bakeries, businesses, volunteers, city staff, and community partners who helped bring this idea to life. Whether 50 people participate or 500, I hope everyone who joins us leaves with a smile, a few sweet treats, and a greater appreciation for what makes Athens special.

Here's to another event, another opportunity to create memories, and another chapter in a lifelong passion for bringing ideas to life.
See you on Sweet Streets.

02/26/2026

One of the best lessons I ever learned in college came from my professor, Michael J. O’Keefe. He always said that your work should be consistent across every medium and every campaign, that strong design isn’t just about one good piece, it’s about building a visual system that people instantly recognize.

Working on this Sweet Streets Athens Bakery Crawl project brought reminded me of those lessons. From the logo and mascot to the posters, passport, and promotional pieces, I focused on creating a cohesive look and feel that carries through every touchpoint. Same colors, same energy, same story, no matter where you see it.

It reminded me that great branding isn’t accidental, it’s intentional, thoughtful, and consistent.

Grateful for professors who leave you with lessons that stick with you for a lifetime.

12/24/2025

This project has been so much fun to work on. It actually started as a suggestion from someone else, and I’m grateful I have a job that encourages me to explore creative ideas when they pop up.

Turning a fun concept into artwork like this is one of the most rewarding parts of what I get to do. So thankful for collaboration, creativity, and the freedom to say “let’s try it.”

12/08/2025

I’m excited to share some of my latest work for the City of Athens as the new Tourism and Marketing Manager. These designs are part of a larger effort to showcase what makes Athens such a special place to visit, explore, and enjoy.

From outdoor adventures to small-town charm, Athens has a story worth telling. Creating visual identities like these helps us highlight the experiences that make this community stand out, whether you’re here to fish, discover local history, or simply enjoy the beauty of East Texas.

More projects are already in the works, and I’m looking forward to helping share the spirit of Athens in new and creative ways.

09/06/2025

Have you heard? Austin, Texas has a new logo. From what I have read, the design work cost them $200,000. And to think, I have done my logo redesign and branding work as an employee of the communities I have worked and supported.

08/25/2025

Movies move us because they tell epic stories that stir emotion. Community videos should do the same. We've experienced great success with video in Castroville. Check out my thoughts below, and when it comes to promotion, don’t just make a video—make a movie.

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Les and PatsyWho doesn’t love a good movie? The box office has been a little strange these past few years. The pandemic seems to have left a lasting impact on going out to the movies. Add in too many streaming services and too many films going straight to digital, and it feels like things have shi...

08/08/2025

Great events deserve artwork that is just as memorable. Unique, eye-catching designs help set an event apart, spark excitement, and create lasting impressions.

For over 20 years, I have created original artwork for successful events, starting with the Salisbury Faire in Des Moines, Iowa, and continuing through countless celebrations that have thrived with the help of strong visual branding.

From festivals to community gatherings, my designs have helped tell each event’s story and draw in the crowds that make them unforgettable.

07/27/2025

Designing a billboard for Castroville has always been on my wish list, but with a limited budget, I had to get creative. Instead, I’m excited to introduce this new banner design that will be going up in select locations around town.

The artwork captures the unique charm and heritage of our historic downtown, the heart of the Little Alsace of Texas. From the iconic architecture to the inviting spirit of our community, every detail in the design celebrates what makes Castroville so special. I’m looking forward to seeing how people respond. With its blend of local shops, events, and timeless Alsatian style, Castroville truly offers something for everyone.

07/24/2025

Discover how thoughtful design can elevate your community at www.hammdesigncompany.com. Specializing in branding, marketing, and creative strategy for cities and municipalities, Hamm Design Company brings award-winning experience and a deep understanding of what makes places thrive. From historic downtowns to tourism campaigns, we help communities tell their story with clarity, purpose, and impact.

Creating compelling graphic design for cities and clients across the country, Hamm Design Company has over 20 years of experience at your service.