My Branding Process from Start to Finish
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. However, I only recommend products I use and love.
It always shocks me when I hear horror stories about the graphic designer who takes someone’s deposit and then starts sketching up logo concepts, without first asking a ton of questions. Run for the hills! The branding process should be extremely collaborative! What do I mean by that? Well, let’s get specific.
Step 1: Research & Inspiration
First I send my client their Welcome Packet, which is a PDF with all the links and info they need to get started. The client fills out my branding questionnaire, which covers their business plans and goals, target demographic, and aesthetic questions.
I also provide each client with The Brand Strategy Workbook which is an optional but recommended tool to help them build a solid foundation for their brand.
The next step is a collaborative Pinterest board, which I set up for my client and myself to share. I recommend each client pins at least 20 pins, which will serve as inspiration for the overall tone and style of the brand. The pins should be photos, color palettes, logos, patterns, textures, illustrations, and anything that conveys the aesthetic that the client wants to convey through their new brand.
Once I have each client’s questionnaire answers and their 20+ pins, I go over everything with a fine tooth comb to see if I have any questions about what they have sent. Then I use those materials to create a mood board for the brand. Only after the mood board has been approved by the client, I start sketching up logo concepts.
PRO TIP: Ask the designer you’re considering hiring if they will be comfortable giving you honest feedback. I believe it’s half of my job as a branding specialist to be straight forward with my clients, especially when I am concerned that their feedback or suggestions are negatively affecting their project.
Step 2: Logo Development
All of my custom branding packages include unlimited rounds of revisions, because I believe that is necessary to ensure my clients are 100% satisfied with the end result.
In the first round I come up with 6 logo concepts, which I present to the client. They respond with feedback, and from there, I will either make revisions to the first round or go back to the drawing board. We go back and forth this way until my client is IN LOVE with their new logo.
Once the logo has been finalized in black and white, I present various options for a color scheme. Once the color scheme has been chosen by the client, I apply it to the logo and this part of the process is done.
Step 3: Building Out the Brand
This is my favorite part of the process, when the brand identity really starts coming together. I put together the remaining elements which will work together to tell the brand’s visual story.
These elements include logo variations, supplemental fonts, patterns, textures, icons, and images. After this is approved by the client, I put everything together in an easy-to-use Style Guide (also called a Brand Standards Manual.)
..and the cherry on top
All of my custom design packages also include digital mockups so you can see your brand come to life, and printed luxury business cards to make you look like a total boss right out of the gate.
If you have any questions about my branding process, or if you’d like to start a project, email me at hello@gretchenkamp.com or contact me here.
x, gretchen
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I’m a Brand Designer and Strategist living in NYC. 9 years ago I quit my job to start this business, and now I’m here to help you do it too! I specialize in helping established female millennial entrepreneurs transform their brands.. to attract Dream Clients and grow their businesses, so that they can make more money, be their own bosses and live the life they deserve!