Highest Reward was a startup offering outsourced HR services tailored to the emerging cannabis industry—a sector that was rapidly expanding yet lacked infrastructure for professional workplace culture and operations. As co-founder, I led the development of the brand identity, from naming through visual design, with the goal of creating a trustworthy, modern, and optimistic brand in a space often viewed with hesitation or stigma.
The name “Highest Reward” was inspired by a quote from John Ruskin:
“The highest reward for a person's toil is not what they get for it, but what they become by it.”
It was a deliberate play on words—resonating with the cannabis industry’s language while rooting the brand in a higher mission of personal and professional growth. It reflected our core belief that people deserved to thrive in the workplace, no matter the industry.
“The highest reward for a person's toil is not what they get for it, but what they become by it.”
It was a deliberate play on words—resonating with the cannabis industry’s language while rooting the brand in a higher mission of personal and professional growth. It reflected our core belief that people deserved to thrive in the workplace, no matter the industry.
The logo features a stylized quadrant based on the Fibonacci sequence—a timeless symbol of natural order, harmony, and intentional design. This spiral-inspired form suggests both a rising sun and forward momentum, echoing the brand’s vision to elevate and professionalize the cannabis space. The alternate “HR” monogram version highlights the company’s human resources focus.
The color palette—a vibrant orange paired with calming sage green—was chosen to reflect approachability, innovation, and wellness, offering a refreshing alternative to more traditional cannabis branding. The minimalist typography and clean geometry projected credibility and modernity.
From business cards to investor decks, the brand left a strong impression. Our square business cards, coupled with the standout name and bright color palette, made the brand memorable at networking events and startup pitch forums.
While recreational cannabis is not personally aligned with my values, I’ve always believed in the medicinal potential of the plant and the importance of elevating the industry to one that serves people well—with professionalism, structure, and care. This project allowed me to bring that vision to life through intentional design and meaningful storytelling.
