In Pursuit of Truth & Beauty
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About Us

Our studio was founded on some radical notions & a whole lotta of love.

 
Katie Rutherford and Susan Weeks, cofounders of Ruthless and Wellington, at their brand design studio in Burlington, Vermont
 
 

OUR STORY

Our journey began in 2011 when we met at an advertising agency in Vermont.

Fast forward to the summer of 2017 when we decided to take our working relationship to the next level and pursue our dream of lifting up values-led brands and the people who drive them, using design as a force for good.

With integrity and a passion for building brands with purpose, we boldly established Ruthless & Wellington with a shared vision—to do work we're proud of for people we admire that results in more human, joyful, and transformative experiences.

 
Connect with us
 
Susan Weeks, co-founder of Ruthless and Wellington, smiling at the brand design studio located at Karma Birdhouse in downtown Burlington, VT

SUSAN WEEKS
Co-founder / Brand Director

A super connector, lover of nature, art, and all things Wes Anderson, a foodie, wine enthusiast, locavore, and proud mother with an incredible knack for remembering even the most obscure detail. An empath with a big heart and quick wit who knows how to get things done—on time and on budget.

Susan runs point on our brand strategy, communications planning, and relationship management.

A portrait of Katie Rutherford at the Ruthless and Wellington brand design studio in Burlington Vermont

KATIE-MARIE RUTHERFORD
Co-founder / Creative Wizardess

A California-grown, Vermont native, hop lover, vegetable enthusiast, runner, biker, eternally curious creative type with a passion for sustainability. An extroverted introvert with a big imagination who dreams of building her own boat and sailing around the world one day.

As our fearless creative leader, Katie is dedicated to delivering the highest caliber of design, storytelling, and creative thinking for our clients.

 
An image of a rocket ship to illustrate how Ruthless and Wellington launch their brand designs brilliantly.
 

HOW WE WORK

We think holistically, work collaboratively & launch brilliantly.

And we can’t help but have a lot of fun along the way. Discover how we strengthen brands with relentless realness.

 
Our Process
 
 
A gray burst designed by Vermont brand design studio Ruthless and Wellington

“I love the ease in which we work, the creative energy, and laughter.”

“They lead with relationships and seek to get to know the people and brands they are working with. Unlike other consultants, they invite candor, model productive feedback, and aren't afraid to engage in kind but difficult conversations that push the work forward.”

— Abby White, VP for Engagement,
Vermont Land Trust

 
 

Exciting stuff, right?
If you think so, we’d love to hear from you.

CONNECT
 
 

BURLINGTON, VERMONT

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