Empire Reindeer Christmas Club Branding & Design
Murphy Empire created the full brand identity and event design for the Empire Reindeer Christmas Club, a charitable organization that raises more than $20,000 annually for the Toys for Tots Foundation. The private, black-tie gala is held each December at the Portland Yacht Club in Falmouth, Maine, and has become one of the most anticipated holiday events in the region.
Originally founded by the ancestors of Ken Murphy, now President of the club, in 1897, the Empire Reindeer Christmas Club has grown into a beloved annual tradition celebrating generosity, community, and the spirit of giving. Alongside Vice President Nick Dambrie, Treasurer Mike Libby, and COO Mike Willett, Ken produces the event each year with a shared passion for design, detail, and heartfelt celebration.
Founded in 1897 and revived in 2002, the Empire Reindeer Christmas Club is a private, invitation-only holiday tradition dedicated to generosity, craft, and community. Each year, the club gathers to raise funds in support of Toys for Tots through the United States Marine Corps, continuing a family legacy of giving that spans more than a century.
Brand Identity & Creative Direction
Murphy Empire developed a handmade brand identity rooted in craftsmanship, tradition, and timeless holiday nostalgia. The visual system features hand-drawn lettering, custom iconography, and classic typography that evokes a warm, authentic holiday aesthetic. Every design element captures the balance between elegance and rustic charm that defines the annual gala experience.
Event Design, Styling & Production
As a passion project, Murphy Empire produced every facet of the event design, from concept through production. Deliverables included letterpress invitations, printed programs, event signage, and handmade decorations styled to create a natural and festive atmosphere at the Portland Yacht Club. Every prop, centerpiece, and detail was crafted by hand to create a cohesive, immersive celebration of community and giving.
Brand Assets, Website & Promotions
The identity extended into web, print, and social media promotions, reinforcing the warm, nostalgic personality of the organization. The website was designed to showcase the history of the club, the annual event, and donation opportunities. Promotional materials were developed for online and print campaigns, all unified under a refined yet heartfelt design language.
Limited Edition “1897” Sweater Collaboration
To commemorate the organization’s founding and raise funds for Toys for Tots, Murphy Empire designed the limited edition “1897” wool intarsia sweater, made in London, Enlgand and offered exclusively through David Wood Clothiers in Portland, Maine. The piece has become a cherished symbol of the event’s enduring tradition of design, generosity, and community.
Deliverables
Handmade Brand Identity System
Custom Logo & Iconography
Website Design & Development
Letterpress Invitations & Event Collateral
Print, Web & Social Media Promotions
Event Signage, Styling & Prop Development
Limited Edition “1897” Sweater Design Collaboration
Explore more of our work in Logo Design, or Website Design.