Dinosaurs Are Birds is a Portland-based team with over 15 years of combined experience in web development and graphic design. We specialize in creating bold, user-friendly websites and cohesive brands for small businesses and non-profits. Deeply rooted in collaboration, we're committed to strengthening our ties to Portland's thriving small business and non-profit ecosystem, helping organizations simplify the complex and soar toward their goals.
Ashleigh brings over a decade of experience in the graphic design industry to Dinosaurs Are Birds. Having worked with teams of all sizes across diverse industries, she thrives on digging deep into an organization's "why" — their mission, values, and the unique qualities that make them stand out. Ashleigh's passion lies in crafting brands that not only communicate an organization's strengths but also capture its heart and personality.
With expertise spanning graphic design, branding, photography, communications, copywriting, social media, and data insights, Ashleigh refuses to pick a favorite. She loves the variety and how each skill helps her tell a more complete story for her clients. Originally from Texas, Ashleigh has called Portland home for the last seven years and can't imagine living anywhere else. She's deeply invested in the Pacific Northwest and its vibrant communities.
When she's not helping clients bring their visions to life, you'll find Ashleigh sipping a chai latte, listening to a podcast, exploring Portland's indie bookstores or antique shops, hiking, and taking every opportunity to enjoy the sun. She is also the designated cat-sitter for Justice's two sassy cats.
Justice (he/they) has always been fueled by curiosity and a passion for innovation. Studying philosophy and bioethics in college sharpened his ability to analyze complex systems and think critically — skills he later applied in diverse roles ranging from IT to operations management. His fascination with entrepreneurship began in childhood and deepened during college, where he immersed himself in the startup community. After teaching himself to code, Justice brought his technical expertise to a mid-sized company, implementing solutions that significantly improved operational efficiency. This experience revealed the transformative power of his skillset and inspired him to help others through technology.
Now, as Lead Developer at Dinosaurs Are Birds, Justice combines his tech skills and inner nerdiness to build creative, intuitive solutions that empower others to thrive. When he's not coding, you'll find him powerlifting, reading, exploring Portland's food scene, singing butchered lyrics to songs he can't name, or hanging out with his two sassy cats.
Known affectionately as "Mama," Velma is a 16-pound round ball of love who doubles as the softest cat you will ever touch. With her black-and-white spotted coat (resembling a panda from certain angles) and one adorable black toe, she's impossible not to adore. Velma enjoys being held like a baby, welcomes belly rubs, and will almost certainly wake you up at 3 a.m. for cuddles and kisses. Unlike most cats, she's a fan of the cat carrier, which she considers a magical portal to exciting adventures and new humans.
Better known as "Pookie," Vulcan is a bold-faced foodie with a passion for fried foods and bread (especially loaves wrapped in plastic). He's not shy about trying to steal your snacks right in front of you and has a talent for charming his way out of trouble. Vulcan is fiercely protective of his favorite chair and isn't afraid to show his displeasure if Ashleigh dares to sit in it. His meow — best described as a tiny scream — is reserved exclusively for moments of angst. Vulcan's personality is as big as his love for all things cozy. Unlike Velma, the cat carrier is his mortal enemy and the cause of much dramatic protest.
You're talented, driven, and deeply passionate about what you do. Whether you're a sole proprietor or part of a small but mighty team, you're wearing a lot of hats — and it can feel overwhelming at times. You're thoughtful, organized, and care deeply about the people and communities you serve, which means you approach every decision with intention.
You're looking for a trusted partner who can bring fresh ideas and expertise to the table, someone you can collaborate with to bring your vision to life. You value planning ahead and giving projects the time they deserve, so there's no need to rush. Above all, you believe in doing good — by your neighbors, your clients, and your community — and you want a brand and website that reflect that heart.