Today we’d like to introduce you to Maurianna Dinkins.
Maurianna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Where to begin! I’ve always been a creative person. Growing up, I was the kid who was constantly drawing, making something, experimenting, or finding any excuse to turn an idea into something tangible. I loved taking an idea that existed only in my imagination and bringing it to life. Looking back, I probably should’ve known then that I’d eventually end up in a creative career.
As I got older, that love for creating naturally led me to design. I quickly realized it was the perfect combination of creativity and problem-solving, and that balance made me fall in love with the field even more.
By the time I got to college, I somehow became the unofficial “design person.” If someone needed a logo, marketing materials, or a website, I was usually the one they called. I genuinely loved helping classmates and organizations bring their ideas to life, and somewhere along the way, I had one of those “Wait… could I actually do this for a living?” moments. That’s when everything clicked.
After graduating, I took the leap and started Mauri’s Markups. I originally offered website design services, but it didn’t take long to realize what I loved most was branding <i>and </i>website design. I wasn’t just designing one piece of a business—I was helping shape how an entire business showed up. Watching an idea evolve from a conversation into a fully realized brand and website is one of those things that never gets old.
As my business has grown, one thing has stayed exactly the same: my favorite part has always been the people. I love hearing how someone got started, what inspired them to take the leap, and what they’re dreaming of building. Those conversations are where the best ideas come from, and they remind me that every project is about so much more than colors, fonts, or a beautiful website.
It’s funny to think that being the person everyone came to for design help in college eventually turned into my own business. Today, I get to wake up every day and do something I genuinely love—helping passionate business owners turn an idea into something real, something that feels like them, and something they’re excited to share with the world. I still have those moments where I think, “I can’t believe this is my job,” and I don’t think I’ll ever stop being grateful for that.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Honestly, I’ve been really fortunate. My journey has been smoother than I ever expected, and I don’t take that for granted. Of course, running a business comes with challenges, but I haven’t had one defining moment that made me question whether this was the right path. If anything, my biggest challenges have come from… well, myself.
My creative brain doesn’t really have an off switch. I’ll be making dinner and suddenly think of a better website layout, or I’ll wake up with an idea for a brand that I have to write down before I forget it. Even after a project is finished, there’s always that little voice wondering, “What if I tried one more thing?” Learning when to close my laptop and call something complete has definitely been a work in progress.
Another challenge has surprisingly been social media. You’d think as a designer I’d have it all figured out, but keeping up with constantly changing trends, algorithms, and the pressure to always be posting can feel overwhelming. I’ve learned that I’d rather show up consistently and authentically than try to chase every trend. At the end of the day, I’d rather spend my time creating meaningful work for my clients than worrying about whether I posted at the “perfect” time.
Over the years, I’ve realized that creativity isn’t about doing more—it’s about creating with intention and knowing when to step away. Ironically, some of my best ideas come when I’m out for a walk, reading a book, or doing something completely unrelated to design.
I’m still figuring out that balance, and I probably always will be. But I think learning to step away, give myself space, and trust the creative process has made me a healthier creative and a better business owner. It allows me to come back to my work with a clearer mind and show up more fully for the people I work with.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
So, I’m a brand and web designer who works with lifestyle brands, creatives, and service-based businesses to create brands and websites that feel true to who they are. For me, design has never been just about creating something beautiful—it’s about helping people feel confident in how they show up and giving them a brand that genuinely reflects who they are.
One of my favorite parts of every project happens before the design even begins. I love hearing how someone got started, what inspired them to take the leap, and what they’re dreaming of building. Those conversations shape every creative decision because I believe the strongest brands are built around people, not just aesthetics.
I think what sets my work apart is that I meet clients where they are. Some are ready for a complete brand and website transformation, while others simply need a fresh perspective before taking the next step. Along with brand and website design, I offer design audits for business owners who aren’t quite ready for a full redesign. It’s a chance to get a designer’s eye on what they already have and walk away with thoughtful, practical ideas for making it even stronger. I also work across multiple website platforms, giving my clients the flexibility to choose what works best for their business rather than feeling limited to a single solution.
What I’m most proud of isn’t one specific project—it’s the relationships I’ve built and the trust my clients place in me. Starting or growing a business is such a personal journey, and it’s something I never take lightly. Seeing a client light up when everything finally feels aligned, or hearing them say, “This finally feels like me,” is the most rewarding part of what I do.
At the end of the day, I hope Mauri’s Markups is known for creating more than beautiful brands and websites. I hope it’s known for making the branding process feel approachable, collaborative, and even a little fun. If my clients walk away feeling more confident, excited, and empowered than when they started, then I know I’ve done my job.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
If you’re looking for a creative partner to help bring your ideas to life, I’d love to work together. Whether you’re building a brand from the ground up, refreshing your website, or simply looking for a little guidance through a website audit, my goal is always the same: to create something that feels true to you and gives you the confidence to share your business with the world.
I also love connecting with fellow creatives, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. One of the best parts of running Mauri’s Markups has been the amazing people I’ve met along the way, and I’m always excited to meet more. Whether there’s an opportunity to collaborate or simply connect and learn from each other, I’m always open to it.
And if you’ve enjoyed my work or know someone who might be a good fit, sharing my name or sending a referral my way is one of the greatest compliments I could receive. Small businesses grow through genuine relationships and word of mouth, and I’m incredibly grateful for every recommendation, connection, and kind word of support.
Pricing:
- Every project is customized based on each client’s goals and scope.
- Custom proposals are provided after an initial consultation to ensure each project is tailored to the client’s needs.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.maurismarkups.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maurismarkups/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maurismarkups
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/company/mauris-markups
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/maurismarkups/
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