Hi Reader! Let's set the scene really quick. You know that feeling when you discover a business online and instantly get their vibe? You understand what they're about and can almost sense the experience they offer, even before engaging with them. That immediate connection stems from a cohesive brand identity that goes beyond just a logo. That’s branding!
Many creative business owners come to me thinking they just need a logo, but a logo alone won’t build the kind of brand that attracts dream clients and makes people remember you. A logo is a visual symbol, and that's only one piece of a larger puzzle that is your brand identity.
So how do you do that? (without hiring me yet, of course ;)) Here are five ways to strengthen your brand, plus a few tips to make it happen!
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How to Develop your Brand [Beyond the Logo]
1.Your brand tells a story
Your brand is more than just aesthetics...it’s a reflection of who you are, what you stand for, and why people should choose you. Whether you’re a designer, photographer, or a handmade business owner, your story is what sets you apart.
Try this: Craft a compelling brand story that highlights your mission, vision, and the problem your business solves.
Then try this: Engage your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes content or the origin story of your business (quick idea: try a voice over reel with clips of your biz journey thus far, share the challenges you've faced & how you overcame them -- check out an example of this for my side gig Minny Thrift). This is a story that you can continue telling, and creates a deeper connection and builds trust with your audience.
2. Consistency creates recognition
People should recognize your brand instantly, no matter where they find you (think: online, different social media platforms, website, markets, pop ups, ads, packaging). The more cohesive your brand is, the more memorable it becomes.
Try this: Audit your existing content and platforms for consistency. Pick 2 brand fonts, a set color palette, and a go-to filter or editing style for photos & short form video content. Set it & stick to it, consistency builds credibility!
Then try this: Create an updated brand guideline sheet you or someone else can quickly reference for your brand logos & usage, colors with hex codes, typography choices & tone of voice. This is a game changer and makes things feel official.
3. Your brand builds trust (or loses it)
An intentional brand = professionalism! I'm going to hold your hand when I say this.. if your branding is outdated, all over the place, or not aligned with your business goals, potential clients or customers may hesitate to buy from you. It's just simply human nature, we seek reliability and trust when investing our money!
Try this: Take a fresh look at your website & social media. Does it reflect the level of service you provide or the quality of your products? If not, it might be time for a refresh.
Then try this: Choose one element ofyour brand or online presence and give it a quick refresh this week. Maybe it's updating customer/client testimonials, revising your website copy on one primary page (home page or about me page), or solidifying your color palette (for good)!
4. Experience is everything
Your brand isn’t just about what people see.. it’s how they feel working with you. A seamless, thoughtful customer/client experience keeps people coming back (and telling their friends about you)!
Try this: Map out your customer/client journey from purchase/inquiry to follow up/off-boarding. Where can you make things smoother? Maybe it’s an easy to follow booking process, automated check ins, or for service-providers...a beautifully designed project proposal (you can grab my Honeybook Proposal Template here!). Also grab 30% off your first year of Honeybook here!
Then try this: Test your customer/client experience by going through your inquiry form or checkout process yourself. Look for opportunities to enhance the experience, such as simplifying processes or adding personalized touches. Note anything that feels awkward or confusing...you want to be giving them 5-star service! People want to feel valued by you.
A peek at my multi-page Honeybook Client Proposal, this is what I send clients so they have a clear outline of what the project entails, the tentative timeline, invoice, contract & next steps.. all in writing so they can refer back to it at any time! You can grab yours at the link above!
5. Positioning is key to attracting your audience
Your brand and website set the tone for who you attract. If you want high-end clients or customers, your brand needs to reflect a high-end experience.
Try this: Ask yourself... Would I pay premium prices for my own products and services based on my brand presentation?
Then try this: Refine your website’s about page messaging or your Instagram bio to clearly explain what makes you different. Add a short section that tells visitors what you specialize in and how it benefits them.
Client Storytime!
When Allie from Allie G Photography reached out to me, she had been dreaming of working with a designer for years. As a Destination Wedding & Elopement Photographer, she envisioned a brand that felt moody, minimalistic, and incorporated nature (a cabin, trees, and a canoe). She wanted her brand to feel like her.
Hear from Allie: "It was so fun to see it transform into my dream vision!! Now that my brand is complete, I feel even more like I’m sitting on cloud nine!!"
And guess what? A few weeks after launching her new branding, she booked her dream client—a fall elopement photoshoot in Glacier National Park! THIS is why branding is more than a logo, and also why I LOVE what I do!! A client win is a win for me, I promise, I'm your biggest fan! Take a peek below & see the beauty of her branding for yourself! >>>
Got a project in mind? Let’s create your dream brand! Imagine your brand and website not just looking good but working for you...bringing in more sales, building trust, and connecting you with dream clients who just get you. That’s the magic we create together. Your vision, my expertise, and a brand that’s absolutely magnetic. Ready to make your business totally obsessed-worthy?
(and I love supporting other small business owners!) Meet Naomi. A Minnesota-based brand and website designer known for bold, modern, and artistic designs. My passion lies in crafting captivating brand narratives and inspiring others to pursue their creative dreams! Let's get creative together!
