2025 Trusted Advisers: Michael Wehrenberg

With 28 years in the marketing and branding industry, Michael Wehrenberg offers clients expertise from experience. He founded Wehrenberg Design Co. on the understanding that effective communication entails trust, insight and partnership. Now, he helps his clients develop their brands on the same core values.

“I serve not only as a service provider, but as a long-term strategic collaborator,” he says. “I take the time to deeply understand each organization’s values, goals and challenges. From there, I help shape compelling brand identities, craft targeted messaging strategies and implement digital solutions that align with their mission and resonate with their audiences.”

Wehrenberg founded his company in 1997 during his junior year of college at Drury University where he was earning a bachelor’s of studio art.

Wehrenberg Design Co. today offers full-serve web design and marketing services including content writing, logo design and digital marketing.

He works with approximately 950 clients nationwide. Over the years, some of these partnerships have included Legacy Bank & Trust Co., Springfield Brewing Co. and Harmony House. Back when websites were first becoming a thing, CoxHealth Foundation contracted Wehrenberg as its designer and branding adviser.

“He not only developed our messaging alongside us, but opened the door to new donors, increasing community awareness and understanding the power of a website,” says Lisa Alexander, president of CoxHealth Foundation. “Nearly 25 years later, Michael continues to assist the CoxHealth Foundation with all digital platforms, enhancing our message and visibility and assisting us in making the connections that support our mission and ability to serve our patients and donors.”

Wehrenberg is known for quick and quality results, with a keen eye for spotting opportunities. He understands the importance of brand identity for business and organizational efficacy. In this way, he’s a bit of a storyteller, with his work translating into improved web traffic, increased donors and broadened client visibility.

“Clients often describe our work as transformative,” he says, “not just for their branding, but for how they perceive their own potential. They feel seen, supported and understood.”

Wehrenberg serves as webmaster for Rotary District 6080 and was past board president of the Rotary Club of Springfield Southeast. He was awarded a Distinguished Alumni Award from Drury in 2008, and has remained active at the university in multiple leadership and mentorship roles.