Maria Burgelova & More By Us

My journey into design has definitely taken some interesting twists and turns. It began in the sports industry, where I started off in marketing after studying economics and sports management. I later studied human resources and was surprisingly named Best Young Human Resources Manager in Bulgaria. Despite these achievements, I couldn't shake off a strong desire to create. In 2008, I decided that I needed to make a significant career change and returned to university to study design. This was perhaps one of the best decisions of my life. Design freed me and gave me the tools to express myself. Finally, I was doing something truly fun. In the early years working as a designer, I felt regret that I hadn't started earlier, believing I had wasted so much time studying and working in areas unrelated to my passion. Now, however, I learned to appreciate every part of my journey as it gives me a very different approach to work and a deeper understanding of business and my clients.

I founded More By Us in 2016. We are now a full-service creative studio based in Sofia, Bulgaria. I am really proud of the friendly and energetic vibe our team brings to the table, which I believe is key to sparking creativity and fostering teamwork. Whether we're working on web design, graphic design, or large branding projects, our team's aim is always to go above and beyond, making a lasting impact on the brands we collaborate with.

In the context of my personal background, design is fun. Outside of this context, I feel like being a designer is almost like being a parent. You start to work on something, you help shape it, but it has its own soul and plan from the moment the idea is born. It is unbelievably exciting for me to see the unexpected turns the designs take. And, like every parent, we sometimes get too attached, but also proud.

I like a good challenge and the freedom to express myself. When I find a project that combines both, it's like a dream come true. I have a passion for learning and experimenting, whether it's exploring a new topic, an idea, understanding more about myself, or picking up new skills. I embrace the complexity and demands of each new project because they push me to stretch my limits and improve my abilities.

I have many favorite projects, but one in particular stands out in my mind. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to propose a logo redesign for the French AOTA. This project was so enjoyable because I was given complete freedom to experiment and reinterpret the brand. It perfectly aligned with my design philosophy of genuine, unfiltered creativity. I created three unique designs, each featuring its own custom typography, truly reflecting my personal style as a designer. Although AOTA decided to keep their original branding, I’m really grateful for the experience. It allowed me to create something that truly represents me as a professional. The project even gained recognition last November when Design Rush listed it among the top 6 typography logos of the month. It was gratifying to see this project chosen to represent our studio’s work.

My very first design project, I believe, was a business card I made for my office while I was working in marketing. It is not the project I am most proud of, but it is still funny that it took me 10 more years after this small project to realize that I would one day become a real designer.

I love everything digital. In the age of AI, it would be almost impossible to find a designer who doesn’t want to explore it and see how it can improve their work. On the other hand, since I was a little girl, I have been obsessed with the smell of paint and I love screen printing.

Usually after the second coffee. Best case scenario would be if I am well rested too.

When I design, my main focus is on visual storytelling. I always strive to create designs that not only tell a story but also resonate on a fundamental level, making them easy to understand and impactful.

When I'm designing, I feel a mix of contentment, enthusiasm, and curiosity. Each project brings a new challenge and a fresh opportunity to explore, which keeps me engaged and excited about the possibilities of what we can create together.

The moment I see our designs realized is incredibly rewarding for both me and my team. There's a sense of fulfillment that comes from seeing our ideas come to life and being used in the real world. It confirms the effort invested, and there's also a thrill in witnessing how others interact with the work.

A successful design, in my view, is one that effectively serves the set goals and helps a business achieve them. It’s about creating something that not only meets the practical requirements but also enhances the overall strategy. In the best case scenario, the design is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. To me, that balance between utility and beauty is what really defines success in design.

When judging a design as good or bad, the first aspects I consider are how well thought out it is, its functionality, and its aesthetic appeal. It's crucial that the design communicates the intended message and story effectively. A design that balances these elements—functionality, beauty, and clear communication—typically stands out as a good design in my eyes.

As a designer, I really feel a strong responsibility towards both society and the environment. At our studio we always aim to create sustainable designs that not only look good and function well but also respect our societal values and tread lightly on the planet. It’s about making sure that what I create isn’t just effective but also thoughtful and kind to the world we all share.

The design field is really evolving in some fascinating ways. We're seeing a shift toward more thoughtful design strategies. It's not just about individual projects anymore; designers are starting to think about the broader impact of their work. I'm also genuinely excited about the role of AI in design. It's like having an additional team member we can rely on for support. AI is enhancing our daily work, allowing us to expand our creativity while keeping costs down and speeding up processes. It's truly transforming the field, and I'm eager to see where it goes from here.

We're planning to participate in the A'Awards Exhibition, and we're incredibly excited about it. This would be our first exhibition as a studio, and we're looking forward to showcasing our work there. After that, who knows? We're open to exploring more opportunities to display our designs and connect with the community.

We find our design inspiration in a variety of places, but for me personally, it's the world around me that constantly fuels my creativity. Whether it's the subtle details of everyday life or the bustling energy of the city, I believe there's always inspiration waiting to be discovered every day, everywhere.

My personal design style is fundamentally minimalist. I've always been attracted to the elegance and simplicity of minimalist design. This style allows me to focus on what's essential, stripping away the unnecessary elements to emphasize functionality alongside beauty. What drove me deeper into this style was its powerful ability to communicate more with less, which really aligns with my personal aesthetics. The main characteristics of my style include clean lines, restrained color palettes, and uncluttered spaces. My approach to design is about achieving balance—making sure every element serves a purpose and contributes to a cohesive whole. It’s about creating designs that are not only efficient but also visually soothing.

Working as a designer from Bulgaria with international clients offers unique challenges and opportunities. For example, the way we nod for 'yes' and 'no' is the opposite of most places. Seeing this small but important difference daily drives us to deeply understand the cultures and symbols important to our clients. Living in Bulgaria, our rich cultural heritage deeply influences our designs. The historic and artistic backdrop inspires our textures and colors, enhancing our studio's style. The main advantage of designing here is the rich cultural influence and strong artistry tradition that enriches our work. The challenge is integrating local flavor with global trends to ensure our designs resonate both locally and worldwide.

When we work with companies, especially since most of our clients are based in the US, we start by diving deep into their brand and business goals. Understanding the nuances of their market and industry trends helps us craft designs that truly resonate. Our approach is highly collaborative—keeping open lines of communication is crucial. We work together through concepts, revisions, and feedback, building a partnership that culminates in a final design that not only looks striking but also effectively supports their business objectives. Our goal is to create designs that are strategic assets for our clients.

Choosing the right designer can be a bit like matchmaking for businesses. Start by taking a peek at the designer's portfolio to see if their style matches what you're looking for. But don’t stop there—schedule a call or a meeting to discuss your vision and hear their initial ideas. We love to kick things off with free strategy calls. It’s our way of getting to know the business while giving them a backstage pass to how we work. This helps us and our clients to see if we are a good fit for the specific project.

We start by sitting down with the business to really understand what they need and what they're aiming for. This chat helps us get a clear picture of their goals. Then, we begin sketching and brainstorming, trying out different ideas until something clicks. Once we have a direction that feels right, we tweak and adjust based on their feedback to make sure the design is just what they were looking for. We keep them involved every step of the way, from the first sketches to the final version. It’s all about creating a design that fits their vision and provides a simple, effective process.

Most of my favorite items at home are artworks, including a cherished piece by Christo Yavashev and several paintings by Bulgarian artists that I adore. Alongside these, I have a collection of design books that fuel my creativity. I also surround myself with inspiring objects like unusual buttons, beautiful notebooks, and visually striking catalogs and books. These items not only inspire my daily work but also add a personal touch of art and design to my space.

A typical day for me starts with not one, but two essential cups of coffee to really get into gear. Once I'm fully caffeinated, I catch up with my team in a brief meeting where we outline our priorities for the day. This helps us stay aligned and focused. Most of my day is then divided between meetings with clients, where we discuss projects and expectations, and overseeing the work of the designers in my studio. I also make sure to set aside some time to dive into design work myself, which is something I really enjoy. It's a busy schedule, but it keeps me engaged and ensures everything at the studio runs smoothly.

One of the most important things I'd suggest is to work diligently every day but avoid overwhelming yourself by comparing your work to the top designs out there. It's easy to feel like you can't measure up, but remember, everyone progresses at their own pace. It’s perfectly okay not to be the best version of yourself when you're just starting out. The key is to focus on improvement—aim to be just a little better each day than you were the day before. That's really what matters. This incremental progress, no matter how small, adds up over time and can lead to significant growth and success in your design career.

Being a designer comes with its unique set of positives and negatives. On the positive side, we have the freedom to live as creatives—this allows us to work from almost anywhere, engage in projects that really matter, and find inspiration in the smallest things around us. It's incredibly fulfilling to experience life through such a creative lens. However, there are challenges as well. The very nature of being inspired can lead us to work with high energy levels without realizing how tired we are until it’s too late. That's why I always encourage myself and my team to take regular breaks and make sure we're resting actively when needed. It’s important to manage our energy and ensure we’re not burning out.

My golden rule in design is simple: always remember that we’re designing for people. This perspective keeps everything I do grounded. I aim to keep our designs simple and well-organized, ensuring that the ideas we’re communicating are clear and accessible.

When it comes to the most important skill for a designer, I really think it boils down to being a good human first. You know, things like empathy, honesty, and the ability to really listen to others are crucial. These qualities are at the base of good design because they help you connect with people. Sure, technical skills are important too, but they can be learned over time. It's the human qualities that truly shape how effective you can be as a designer.

We've got quite a variety in our design toolbox! For software, we're all over the map—we use everything from Adobe Creative Cloud for graphics to specialized 3D and video editing software, and even AI tools to push our designs further. But it's not all digital; we love our design books too. They're a constant source of inspiration. And then there's the more hands-on creative stuff some of us dive into, like drawing, calligraphy, and other forms of art. It's this mix of digital and traditional tools that really lets us explore all angles of creativity.

Designing can indeed be a time-consuming task, but having a background in economics, marketing, and HR has really honed my time management skills. I've developed a small task management system that boosts our productivity significantly. It's one of the secrets to how we get things done so quickly. Teamwork is also central to our approach—there's always someone ready to lend a hand. We collaborate closely, which not only speeds things up but also enhances the creativity and quality of our work. This combination of efficient systems and strong teamwork allows us to tackle projects effectively and meet deadlines without compromising on quality.

The time it takes to design something really varies based on the scope of the project. For something like a social media campaign for a client we're familiar with, it could just be a few hours because we already understand their brand and audience. On the other hand, if we're developing the UX and UI for complex software, the project could stretch over months or even years. That's because these kinds of projects often evolve as we continue to add and refine features based on the client’s ongoing needs. So, the timeline can range from very short to quite extended, depending on the depth and breadth of the project.

The question I get asked most often is, “What’s your process?” Clients are really keen to understand what it's like to work with us. I actually love this question because our process is pretty straightforward. Here’s how it goes: We start with a call to get to know each other and the project needs. Then, we send over a proposal. If it’s accepted, we officially kick off the project with another call and share some mood boards to discuss ideas. Next, we deliver the first drafts, gather feedback, make adjustments based on that feedback, and then finalize the design. For larger projects, there might be a few more rounds, but that’s essentially how we operate. It’s a clear and collaborative approach that clients really appreciate.

The most important job experience for me was definitely when I decided to switch careers from marketing and HR to design. This pivotal moment reshaped my professional path and set me on the course to where I am today. Making such a significant change was both challenging and exhilarating, but it allowed me to truly follow my passion for design. It was a leap that not only transformed my career but also deeply enriched my understanding of how creative and business disciplines can blend together. This experience has been fundamental in shaping how I approach design projects and interact with clients today.

Some of our clients include MoEngage, Kibo, Acumen Risk, Adenis, among others. We've had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of companies, each bringing unique challenges and projects that have helped us grow and refine our approach to design. It’s been fantastic to collaborate with such a variety of businesses, as it keeps our work dynamic and always interesting.

Working in a diverse team is fantastic because everyone has different preferences, which allows us to take on a wide variety of projects. We handle everything from web and mobile applications to motion design, marketing collateral, branding, and brand identity. Each team member brings their expertise to different areas, which enriches our collective output. Personally, my passion lies in branding and brand identity development. There's something incredibly rewarding about building a brand from the ground up or reinvigorating an existing one. It's about crafting a story that resonates with people and watching that story come to life through the brand's identity. This aspect of design really captivates me because it blends creativity with strategic thinking and has a lasting impact on how the brand is perceived.

We're really excited about the future! We've just registered a company in the US, and one of our main goals is to expand our team there. It's an exciting time, and we can't wait to see where this next chapter takes us.

Yes, we definitely work as a team. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Working together allows us to tackle a wider range of projects and bring a variety of ideas to the table, which ultimately enriches the final designs we produce.

People can easily get in touch with us through our website at https://moreby.us, or they can reach out directly via my personal email: maria@moreby.us. We're always open to discussing new ideas.

The first ten years of my career were actually in marketing. It was a great foundation, but I always felt a strong pull towards design. So, in 2008, I decided to go back to university to pursue a master’s in design. However, after my first year, I had to put my studies on hold to take care of my young child’s health. It was a tough decision, but health and family come first. That didn’t stop me from pursuing my passion. I squeezed in as much design work and learning as I could during that time. I kept studying and working on projects to keep growing as a professional. In 2019, I went back and finished my master’s program. I thought it was going to be a bit daunting returning after so many years, but it turned out to be the most inspiring and rewarding experience.

I’ve always been excited about colors and paint. From a young age, I found joy in creating and experimenting with different visual elements. However, there was a long period in my life when I couldn’t fully indulge in this passion. When I finally had the opportunity to focus on design, I realized I had accumulated a huge reservoir of creative energy just waiting. Design makes me happy because it combines aesthetics with functionality. Seeing well-organized and useful designs brings me a lot of satisfaction. But what really excites me is the process of creating those designs—transforming ideas into something tangible that can improve people's lives. It’s incredibly fulfilling to take a concept and develop it into something that’s both beautiful and practical. That’s what keeps me motivated every day.

I fought for it. A lot. If my life had depended on my parents' wishes, I would have ended up as a manager of a sports company. But design was my passion, and I was determined to pursue it no matter what. It wasn’t always an easy path, but every challenge made me more committed to following my own dream.

We work on a huge variety of graphic and web design and branding projects, including video production. I find it fascinating to explore the possibilities of each medium, as each one offers unique ways to tell a story and engage an audience. Many of the designs we create in our studio are for innovative products. It’s rewarding to be part of projects that push the boundaries and introduce new ideas to the market. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about creating designs that not only look great but also have a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s through sustainability, social initiatives, or innovative solutions, I’m excited about the potential of design to contribute to positive change.

The key is to never stop working on yourself, your skills, and your knowledge. The design field is always evolving, and there’s always something new to learn. Stay curious and keep pushing your boundaries. Take on new challenges, seek feedback, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Consistent growth and a passion for continuous improvement are what will set you apart and help you make a lasting impact in the design world.

I would say the key difference is the ability to see the bigger picture. A good designer can create something that looks great and meets the immediate needs of a specific task. But a great designer goes beyond that—they think about the broader implications of their work. They design with a vision for how their creations will influence and improve the world around them. It’s about creating design for impact, not just addressing a specific task. This perspective allows great designers to create work that is not only beautiful but also meaningful and lasting.

A really good design tells a story. It goes beyond just making a strong impression; it connects with people on an emotional level and makes them feel something. When I evaluate design, I look for this ability to evoke emotions and communicate a deeper message. It’s not just about aesthetics or functionality, but how well the design resonates with its audience and conveys its intended narrative. That emotional connection is what transforms good design into something truly memorable and impactful.

Imagine a Rolex with poor design—you can’t, right? Nobody would pay a premium price for something that looks unimpressive. In the corporate world, design is a reflection of your professionalism. You could be the best in finance, for example, but if your design doesn’t communicate that excellence, people might not take you seriously. I’m not here to convince everyone to invest in good design because, frankly, good design isn’t for everyone. If people don’t understand its value, I wouldn’t push them to embrace something they aren’t ready for. However, this is exactly why companies with good design stand out and make such a huge difference. They understand that great design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about conveying professionalism, building trust, and creating an emotional connection with their audience. That’s the true value of good design.

I’m actually a passionate beekeeper, so if I had all the time in the world, I would create a campaign to promote the importance of bees for our planet. This is something very close to my heart, and I believe it would make a real difference. Unfortunately, I’m too busy right now with other projects, but that’s definitely on my to-do list.

Oh, there are so many! I have a mobile application for dog owners in progress, and I’ve always wanted to create honey packaging. I’m constantly brimming with ideas—a new one pops into my head every day. Sometimes, it’s overwhelming to keep track of them all! It’s probably a good thing I only have 24 hours in a day, otherwise, I wouldn’t have the energy for all the projects I imagine. There's always something new and exciting to explore.

For me, it’s curiosity. That has always been my driving force. I’m constantly asking questions, exploring new ideas, and seeking out fresh perspectives. It’s the secret ingredient that fuels my creativity and helps me stay passionate.

I’m inspired by many incredible designers. Stefan Sagmeister’s bold approach, David Carson’s innovative typography, Storm Thorgerson’s surreal album art, Saul Bass’s timeless designs, and Paula Scher’s powerful work all greatly influence me. Each of these legends pushes the boundaries of design and inspires me.

I’m fascinated by how designer brains work—their ideas and solutions often leave me in awe. Take Stefan Sagmeister’s "The Happy Show," for instance. It’s a brilliant mix of captivating visuals and deep, thought-provoking concepts that really stir the emotions. When a design can connect with me on such an emotional level, it instantly becomes a favorite. That emotional resonance is what I find truly remarkable in design.

I’m hoping my greatest design is yet to be made, but there is one design I’m particularly proud of—the logo for the French AOTA. This design truly represents who I am as a designer. It captures my attention to detail, my commitment to conveying a clear message, and my passion for creating something that is made for impact. This logo not only fulfills its purpose but also reflects my personal style and design philosophy, which is why it is one of my favorite projects.

To become a better designer, it's essential to stay curious and always be ready to learn something new. I constantly seek out new knowledge, whether it's through formal education, workshops, or simply exploring new trends and technologies on my own. Embracing a mindset of continuous learning keeps your skills sharp and your creativity flowing. Another crucial piece of advice is to not be afraid to work a lot. The hands-on experience is irreplaceable. The more you engage in projects, the more you grow as a designer. It’s through this dedication and hard work that real progress is made.

If I hadn’t become a designer, I would have probably been some sort of very creative beekeeper, or I would have found a creative job involving dogs. I would not have been able to stop my creativity for sure.

To me, design is a breath of fresh air—it's peace, excitement, and joy all in one.

My journey wouldn't have been possible without the support of my son, my partner, and, in the last two years, my incredible team.