Brands Inspiring Our Team
These are a few of the brands that spark our creativity and shape our strategic thinking at Guardian.
At Guardian, we help Christian organizations define who they are, tell compelling stories with confidence and break through the noise. But we’re not just builders of brands, we’re students of them, too.
We pay close attention to the brands around us: how they show up, what they stand for and the creative ways they communicate their mission. Whether it’s a company rooted in social good, a product that continues to deliver even as trends change or a brand that simply makes us feel something real, we take note.
These brands shape our thinking, fuel our creativity and challenge us to think outside of the box to deliver creative solutions to the clients we serve.
Here are a few brands that inspire our team—and what makes them shine.
Rob’s Brand of Choice: In-N-Out
In-N-Out has built a fiercely loyal fan base not through flash or gimmicks, but through an unwavering commitment to consistency, quality and doing things the right way. The brand’s focus on genuine service, with both employees and customers, has created a rare experience that keeps people coming back again and again. In a culture obsessed with constant reinvention, In-N-Out proves that clarity, discipline and authenticity can be just as powerful and often far more enduring.
Alli’s Brand of Choice: Simple Modern
This Oklahoma-based brand has mastered the balance of form and function. Their bottles aren’t just sleek; they’re designed to make it easier, lighter and more enjoyable to carry around wherever you go. Although we love the product itself, what draws us in most is their heart. Simple Modern’s mission is woven into everything they do, from innovating with new sizes and accessories to listening closely to their customers and delivering service that feels personal. Most importantly, they live out their values by giving 10% of profits to more than 100 nonprofits, impacting communities locally, nationally and around the globe.
Courtney’s Brand of Choice: Dude Perfect
Based in Frisco, Texas, Dude Perfect is more than a sports and comedy group—they’re a burst of joy in a crowded digital world. Their videos and live shows deliver clean, uplifting fun that parents can feel good about and kids can’t get enough of. On tour, their energy, positivity and heart fill the room, leaving audiences inspired. In a space where wholesome, family-friendly entertainment can be hard to find, they’ve set the bar high, proving that content can be creative and deeply purposeful.
Karen’s Brand of Choice: Banana Ball
The Savannah Bananas have reimagined baseball to restore the joy that once defined America's pastime. They've thrown out the rulebook on pace of play, creating an entertainment-first experience that keeps fans on their feet and laughing the entire game. What makes the brand authentic is its genuine commitment to making every person feel seen, valued and like they belong, whether that's kids running the bases or strangers dancing together in the stands. Most impressively, they've built a passionately engaged community by prioritizing the fan experience above everything else, proving that sports can be both competitive and joyfully entertaining.
Why These Brands Matter
Great brands serve, surprise and stand for something. The ones that inspire us most are doing more than business as usual—they’re shaping culture, building authentic communities and infusing innovation into everything they do. They’re creative and steadfast in staying true to their mission, even as trends shift.
As a team committed to helping purpose-driven organizations grow their influence, we’re continually inspired by the creative ways other brands connect with their audiences. These examples remind us that great branding isn’t just about what you offer, it’s about staying rooted in your mission while continuing to evolve. We hope this list sparks fresh ideas for your own work and encourages you to imagine new possibilities for what your brand can become.