970 Design Review: A Boutique Agency That Gets Storytelling Right

Picture this: You’re a small business owner in the Vail area with a killer product but a website that looks like it’s stuck in 2010. You know you need a refresh—something sleek, modern, and you—but the thought of working with a faceless corporate agency makes you cringe. Enter 970 Design, a boutique digital marketing shop that promises "uncomplicated, intelligent design" and a knack for storytelling. After partnering with them for a rebrand, here’s why they’re worth the hype (and a few things to keep in mind).

Collaborative Creativity That Feels Human

From the first conversation, 970 Design stands out for their collaborative approach. They don’t just slap a template on your brand and call it a day—they dig into your story. Their team asks thoughtful questions about your vision, values, and audience, which translates into designs that actually feel personalized. For my outdoor gear shop, they nailed the balance between rugged adventure and minimalist elegance, something bigger agencies had overcomplicated in past projects.

That said, if you’re the type who wants to hand off a project and get a finished product with zero back-and-forth, their process might feel too hands-on. But for brands that want a true creative partnership? It’s a major win.

Design That’s Clever, Not Cluttered

"Uncomplicated" is right—their work is clean, intuitive, and purposeful. My new website loads faster, looks sharper, and (most importantly) converts better. They have a knack for stripping away the noise and highlighting what matters, whether it’s a bold hero image or a streamlined checkout flow. Even their social media templates felt cohesive without being repetitive.

If there’s a trade-off, it’s that their style leans modern and minimalist. If you’re after something ultra-ornate or trend-chasing (think maximalist neon graphics), you might need to push them outside their comfort zone. But for brands that want timeless appeal? They deliver.

Small-Agency Attention, Big-Agency Expertise

As a boutique shop, 970 Design offers the responsiveness and flexibility you’d expect—quick email replies, no bureaucratic hoops, and a team that remembers your dog’s name. But they also punch above their weight when it comes to strategy. Their branding work didn’t just look good; it came with smart insights about my target audience and how to differentiate from competitors.

The only limitation? They’re not a one-stop-shop for every digital need (like heavy-duty SEO or PPC campaigns). They’ll happily connect you with specialists, but if you need everything under one roof, you might need a larger agency.

Pros:

• Story-driven design that actually reflects your brand’s personality
• Clean, intuitive work—no unnecessary fluff
• Personalized collaboration (they listen)
• Boutique feel with strategic depth

Cons:

• Not for hands-off clients—they want your input
• Minimalist aesthetic might not suit flashy brands
• Niche services (you’ll need outside help for some marketing needs)

The Verdict

970 Design is the antidote to generic, assembly-line branding. They’re ideal for purpose-driven businesses that want their story told beautifully—without the corporate agency baggage. Just come ready to collaborate, and you’ll walk away with a brand that feels authentically yours.