Guys, I’m a graphic designer by trade. For the most part, I get it. I understand the value of a solid brand and good design. But on the other side of the spectrum, I’m a business owner as well. Owners – it’s one thing to have a good solid brand and a great logo but do you live and breathe your brand? When you think of utilizing the design elements that you’ve been given do you exhaust it and use it in ever facet of your business? I’ll be honest guys – I don’t always do that.
I know I’ve been in business for almost 5 years, but I’m just now settling into my brand. I’m happy with the gradual growth my business is making. I’m now designing products with brand AND functionality in mind. Let me try to explain.
Naturally, when I think about products that I will sell the first thing I think about is if I would use them and if they’re functional. Then, I try to design them so they look pretty. 🙂 I don’t just think about what products I can plaster my designs on. I want them to have function first and foremost. I mean, don’t get me wrong. I love pretty stuff. LOVE. But it has to make sense. I have to feel like I need it not just want it. My brand is centered around products that fit into my lifestyle – I’m a Millennial that lives in the suburbs of Los Angeles. I’m always on-the-go.
That being said I always struggled with brand consistency in my products. Because I was focused on products the design naturally took 2nd place. This year I’ve been focused on the balance between the two. Instead of product or design taking priority I’m trying to find the balance between the two. Ever since January I’ve been working on updating my current products and creating new ones that (surprise surprise) fit with my brand and have function. I’m finally at a place where I can really live and breathe my brand because it’s exactly me. 🙂
What do you do to connect to your brand?
xoxo,
Kissa