When you're starting a new small business, I'm sure the first thing you set out to think of is your business name. It should be unique, catchy, and represent your new business venture.
The second? Your logo. But I'm here to tell you that your brand identity is more than just your logo!
Don't get me wrong, your logo is an important part of your brand identity. It's the biggest part of your brand identity - but is not the only part. Your brand identity is the sum of many parts; your logo, your website, your packaging, your business cards, your social media aesthetic, your email design, etc. Your brand identity is the collection of all the visual design elements that your company creates to portay the business to its customer.
A strong brand identity starts with a great logo and ends with consistent branding across the board. Your customers' experience should be curated and branded from start to finish. So, what does this all mean? Well, the minute your customer clicks on your website - the branding and experience should be consistent in both visuals and tone. If you are a company that sells custom dog collars in bright colors - not only should your logo be bright and cheery - your website, your check-out page, your packaging, and thank you card should all convey the same feeling and message to your consumer. Shopping your brand should be an experience - not just a generic store template with a pretty logo. It is proven than a great branding experience with personality leads to repeat customers!
This may seem overwhelming when you're opening up small businesses because, to be honest, it is! There are so many moving parts when it comes to branding yourself that it can be a bit intimidating. Especially for those who don't come from a design background, some smaller branding elements can be overlooked.
In order to make this easier to digest and tackle on your own, I've made a free brand identity elements checklist for you! I've been a graphic and brand designer for many years and use a similar list when working with my own clients. Not only does it point out what I consider to be the most important branding elements - it gives you tips and tricks on how to tie them all together.
So get excited and print this PDF as you create your new small businesses' branding and check off as you go! Brand identity doesn't have to be overwhelming if you take it one step at a time. I'm here to help turn your small business into a big one - one step at a time!
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