Happy Dad

No More Skinny Cans

No More Skinny Cans

Client

Happy Dad Hard Seltzer

Location

Orange County, CA

Year

2020

about

Happy Dad is a hard seltzer brand born from YouTube creators the NELK BOYS, built for a new generation of drinkers. Known for its no-BS attitude, strong social presence, and cult-like following, Happy Dad blends lifestyle, humor, and hype into every can.

Role

As a brand and marketing designer, I led the expansion of Happy Dad’s visual system across social platforms, web, email, and print. I created bold cohesive marketing assets — from digital campaigns to large-scale billboards — while also developing in-store point-of-sale materials and OOH environmental branding, including signage, table tents, and window clings. I worked closely with on-premise managers to ensure design consistency and maximize impact at retail locations, contributing to increased engagement, higher foot traffic, and consistently positive feedback from the internal team.

Problem

Happy Dad sought to amplify its unique brand presence in a competitive hard seltzer market. To engage a young male demographic across the U.S. and Canada, the brand required a bold, flexible visual identity that could consistently perform across digital platforms, retail spaces, and targeted activations such as UFC events and bar promotions—key channels for driving growth and deepening customer connection.

Solution

To ensure brand consistency, I developed adaptable templates that could be easily customized for various campaigns and retail locations.

Result

The updated brand presence boosted foot traffic and in-store visibility, while aligning closely with the brand’s image and target audience.

Credits

Video Production: Matt Ellis

Illustrators: John Peterson, Nino Zezzo

Photography: Matt Ellis, Luis Herrera

Copywriting: Victoria Tatarsky, Vanessa Thornton, Kamryn Thiel, Chantal Forgeard

Video Production: Matt Ellis

Illustrators: John Peterson, Nino Zezzo

Photography: Matt Ellis, Luis Herrera

Copywriting: Victoria Tatarsky, Vanessa Thornton, Kamryn Thiel, Chantal Forgeard