I love feedback because it’s the secret sauce to creating something amazing! Feedback brings clarity, direction, and helps refine a design into exactly what you need. But what makes feedback good? Let’s break it down.

WHAT GOOD FEEDBACK IS NOT

Here are some examples of unhelpful (and sometimes rude!) feedback:

• “I don’t like it.”
• “I think it looks really uncreative, and I’m disappointed.”
• “Can I see something more modern?”
• “Can you move this piece of text underneath, center it, and add a little line here?”

Ouch! These don’t give clear direction and, in some cases, can make your designer feel undervalued. Let’s turn these around into examples of helpful feedback that benefits you and your designer.

“I don’t like it.”

What to say instead:
Be specific! Share what you don’t like and why. Is it the colors, the typography, or the layout? It’s also helpful to let us know what you do like and why.

Example:
“I’m not a fan of the color palette. It feels too bright for the calming vibe I want. I love the font choice, though, it’s clean and easy to read!”

Why it helps: Even though designers choose every element with strategy in mind, we’re not mind readers. Specific feedback ensures we make changes that align with your goals.

“I think it looks really uncreative, and I’m disappointed.”

What to say instead:
Start with kindness. Designers pour hours into crafting your design, and a little positivity can set a better tone.

Example:
“I appreciate the effort you’ve put into this, but it’s not quite what I envisioned. I was hoping for something more playful. Maybe we could explore brighter colors or more dynamic layouts?”

Why it helps: Constructive feedback respects the designer’s effort while giving clear direction for improvement.

“Can I see something more modern?”

What to say instead:
What modern means to you might be something totally different to me. The same goes for any adjective that you use such as “bold” or “badass”. You need to tell me what you mean by this and send some visual examples so that I can understand what you mean and how to make the right changes.

Example:
“I’d like to see something more modern, like these examples [attach links or images]. I love how clean and sleek they feel—can we aim for something similar?”

Why it helps: Visual references make your vision crystal clear and help avoid misinterpretation.

“Can you move this piece of text underneath and center it, and maybe add a little line here?”

What to say instead:
Dictating your changes to your designer isn’t the most constructive way to get your vision across. Remember that your designer is the expert and they know what works and what doesn’t, so listen to them and trust their decisions.

Example:
“The text feels a bit out of balance. Can we explore a layout that makes it feel more cohesive?”

Why it helps: Designers are trained problem solvers. When you share what’s bothering you instead of dictating fixes, you give them room to do what they do best.

Bonus Tip: Resist the Canva Temptation

Please avoid trying to mock up your own design ideas in programs like Canva. Designers are hired to create strategic, polished work, not recreate a concept that might not align with your brand’s goals or design principles.

You and Your Designer: The Dream Team

Great design is a collaborative process, and feedback is one of the most important tools for success. When you provide clear, thoughtful, and constructive feedback, you empower your designer to create something that truly shines.

Remember: You’re on the same team, working toward the same goal—amazing results for your brand!

In today’s competitive market, having a great product or service isn’t enough to guarantee success. Your brand is what sets you apart and makes your business memorable. However, without a clear brand strategy, even the most innovative businesses risk getting lost in the void.

Whether you’re starting out or looking to level up your business, a well-defined brand strategy is the foundation of success. Let’s dive into what a brand strategy is, why it’s essential, and how it can elevate your business.

What Is a Brand Strategy?

A brand strategy goes beyond your logo or color palette—it’s a roadmap for how your business communicates, connects, and grows. It includes your brand’s mission, vision, values, audience, voice, and visual identity. Think of it as the blueprint that ensures every aspect of your brand works together seamlessly to tell a consistent story.

Why a Clear Brand Strategy Matters

1. It Creates Consistency
   Imagine seeing a brand use different fonts, colors, or tones of voice across their website, social media, and packaging. It’s confusing, right? A clear brand strategy ensures consistency across all platforms, which helps build trust and recognition with your audience.
   
2. It Builds Trust and Loyalty
   When your audience recognizes your brand and feels connected to your values, they’re more likely to trust (and remember) you. A clear brand strategy allows you to show up authentically and consistently, making it easier to form strong relationships with your customers.
   
3. It Differentiates You From Competitors
   No matter your industry, chances are there are countless businesses offering similar products or services. Your brand strategy is what makes your business unique. It highlights what you stand for, what you offer, and why customers should choose you.
   
4. It Guides Decision-Making
   A strong brand strategy acts as a filter for every decision you make—whether it’s creating a new product, launching a campaign, or choosing a collaboration. When you know your mission, vision, and values, it’s easier to stay aligned and focused on your goals.
   
5. It Drives Emotional Connection
   People don’t just buy products; they buy stories and experiences. A clear brand strategy helps you craft a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience, making your brand memorable and meaningful.
   

Signs You Need a Brand Strategy

• Your branding feels inconsistent across platforms.
• You’re struggling to connect with your target audience.
• You don’t have clear messaging that communicates your value.
• Your competitors feel more “put together” than you.
• You’re unsure how to evolve your business or pivot when needed.

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to invest in a brand strategy.

How a Brand Strategy Elevates Your Business

A clear brand strategy positions you for growth. When your messaging, visuals, and customer experience are aligned, you create a strong foundation for scaling your business, attracting your dream audience, and standing out in a crowded market.

Conclusion: Invest in Your Brand’s Future

Your brand is one of your most valuable assets and a clear brand strategy ensures it works for you, not against you. It’s about building trust, creating connections, and positioning your business for long-term success.

If you’re ready to take your brand to the next level, let’s chat! Together, we can create a brand strategy that reflects your vision and sets you up for success.

Running a business is not for the faint of heart. It’s a journey fueled by passion, countless late nights, and an unrelenting belief in what you do. It’s about putting everything on the line for your dream and finding the strength to keep going, even when it feels like the odds are stacked against you.

Last year, I came face-to-face with my own version of a challenge that forced me to reevaluate everything.

A shoulder injury left me unable to use my dominant arm for months. For someone whose creativity depends on her hands, the experience was devastating. I couldn’t draw, type, or even complete the simplest tasks without help. Something I’m passionate about and that gave me purpose felt completely out of reach.

I tried everything I could to push through and I had to face the fact that healing wasn’t something I could rush. I had to pause, which admittedly is something I wasn’t used to doing lol. In that pause, I gained a deeper understanding of what resilience truly means.

Setbacks Aren’t the End

Every business owner knows the pain of setbacks. Whether it’s a delayed project, a lost client, or an unexpected challenge (like Covid), there are moments when it feels like everything you’ve worked for is slipping away.

Here’s the thing: setbacks don’t define us. What defines us is the decision to keep going, to adapt, and to have faith in what we’ve built. That faith is what carried me through months of recovery, and it’s what fuels the incredible business owners I have the privilege of working with.

The Heart Behind the Hustle

The businesses I work with are a culmination of blood, sweat, tears, and countless sacrifices. They’re the result of people who refuse to give up, even when everything feels uncertain.

This shared experience of resilience is why I’m so passionate about my work. I know what it’s like to feel like you’ve lost your purpose and to fight your way back. That’s why I pour everything into creating designs that truly represent the heart behind the hustle. I truly admire the passion, the determination, and the courage it takes to keep going.

Why Your Story Matters

Resilience is the foundation of every successful business. It’s the reason we overcome setbacks and find new ways to grow. And it’s why your story deserves to be told in a way that connects with your audience and reflects everything you’ve worked so hard to build.

If you’ve ever wondered whether all the hard work is worth it, the answer is absolutely. The challenges, the late nights, the moments of doubt—they’re all part of a bigger story. A story of resilience, passion, and purpose.

Celebrating Resilience Together

To every business owner who’s faced setbacks and kept going: your story inspires me. It’s why I do what I do and it’s why I believe so strongly in the heart behind the hustle. Together, we can create something that tells your story and helps your business thrive in ways you’ve always dreamed of.

Here’s to the journey—setbacks, successes, and everything in between.

Your branding sets the tone for how people perceive your business—it’s your first impression, your reputation, and your promise all rolled into one. But with so much to consider, it’s easy to make mistakes that can hinder your growth. Let’s talk about five common branding missteps and how to avoid them, so you can build a brand that truly shines!

Mistake 1: Not Defining Your Target Audience

Branding without a clear audience in mind is like shouting into the void.

WHY IT MATTERS

Your branding should speak directly to the people you want to reach. If you’re trying to appeal to everyone, you’re likely resonating with no one.

HOW TO FIX IT

• Identify your ideal customer: their age, interests, challenges, and goals
• Tailor your visuals and messaging to appeal to that specific group

Example: If you’re targeting eco-conscious millennials, focus on sustainable designs, earthy tones, and messaging that highlights environmental impact.

Mistake 2: Overcomplicating Your Logo

WHY IT MATTERS:

Complicated logos are harder to recognize, reproduce, and remember.

HOW TO FIX IT

• Stick to clean lines and clear typography
• Test your logo at different sizes to ensure it works on everything from business cards to billboards

Pro Tip: Less is more! Some of the most iconic logos—like Apple or Nike—are simple and instantly recognizable.

Mistake 3: Inconsistent Visual Branding

Using different fonts, colors, or designs across your platforms creates confusion.

WHY IT MATTERS:

Consistency builds trust. When your branding looks cohesive, it signals professionalism and reliability.

HOW TO FIX IT

• Create a brand style guide with your colors, fonts, and logo variations
• Use templates or pre-designed assets to keep things consistent

Example: Your Instagram posts, website, and packaging should all look like they belong to the same family.

Mistake 4: Ignoring the Emotional Side of Branding

People don’t just buy products—they buy feelings.

WHY IT MATTERS:

Your branding should evoke emotions that align with your brand values and message.

HOW TO FIX IT

• Identify the emotions you want your audience to feel (e.g., excitement, trust, joy)
• Use colors, visuals, and tone of voice to reinforce those emotions

Example: A luxury brand might focus on sleek designs and rich colors to evoke sophistication, while a playful children’s brand might use bright, fun visuals.

Mistake 5: Not Evolving Your Brand as You Grow

What worked when you started might not serve you as your business grows.

WHY IT MATTERS:

Your brand should evolve to reflect your growth, your audience’s changing needs, and shifts in the market.

HOW TO FIX IT

• Periodically review your branding to ensure it aligns with your current goals
• Don’t be afraid to refresh your brand identity when needed

Pro Tip: A brand refresh doesn’t mean starting from scratch. Sometimes a tweak to your logo or a new color palette can make all the difference.

Branding is a journey, not a one-and-done task. By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on clarity, consistency, and emotion, you can build a brand that grows with your business.

Feeling stuck? Let’s chat! I specialize in helping businesses create branding that’s polished, professional, and perfectly aligned with their goals. Book a consultation today, and let’s make your brand unforgettable!

If you’ve ever thought, “I need a logo for my business,” you’re not alone! Logos are often the first thing people think of when it comes to branding. But here’s the truth: a logo is just one small piece of the puzzle. Your brand identity is so much more than a single design—it’s the complete visual and emotional representation of your business. Let’s break down the difference between a logo and a brand identity, and why having both is essential for your success.

What is a logo?

A logo is a graphic symbol or wordmark that represents your business. It’s often the first thing people see and serves as a visual shorthand for your brand.

Characteristics of a Logo:

• Simple and Memorable: Designed to make an immediate impression.
• Versatile: Works across different mediums (websites, social media, print materials).
• Recognizable: Helps people associate your business with a specific image.

Think of a logo as the face of your brand—it’s important, but it’s not the whole story.

What Is a Brand Identity?

Your brand identity is the complete visual system that represents your business. It includes your logo, but it also encompasses:

• Color Palette: The colors that evoke specific emotions and associations with your brand.
• Typography: Fonts that align with your brand’s tone and style.
• Imagery and Graphics: Photos, icons, patterns, or illustrations that reinforce your messaging.
• Tone of Voice: The way your brand “sounds” in written and verbal communication.
• Consistency Across Platforms: Ensures your brand feels cohesive no matter where people encounter it.

Your brand identity is the full experience—how your audience perceives your business visually, emotionally, and experientially.

Why Your Logo Isn’t Enough

While a logo is crucial, relying on it alone won’t give your business the cohesive and professional look it needs to thrive. Here’s why:

1. A Logo Can’t Tell the Full Story

A logo might hint at your business’s personality, but it can’t communicate everything. Your color palette, fonts, and visuals work together to convey your message.

2. It’s About Recognition

Brand identity ensures your business is recognizable across platforms and touchpoints. From social media posts to packaging, every element reinforces who you are.

3. Consistency Builds Trust

When your visuals and messaging feel aligned, it builds trust with your audience. A cohesive brand identity makes you look polished and professional.

How They Work Together

Think of your logo as the centerpiece of your brand identity. It sets the tone, but everything around it—your colors, fonts, and visuals—brings the whole picture to life.

For example:

• Your logo might be featured on your website header, but your brand colors set the mood.
• Your typography ensures your messaging feels consistent, from your Instagram posts to your email newsletters.
• Your graphics and patterns create an immersive experience that makes your brand memorable.

A logo is the face of your brand, but your brand identity is the heartbeat. Together, they help you connect with your audience, build trust, and stand out in a crowded market.

If your logo feels like it’s not doing enough, it might be time to invest in a full brand identity. I specialize in creating cohesive, strategic branding that tells your story and attracts the right audience.

Ready to elevate your business? Check out my services or book a consultation today!

DIYing your branding can seem like the perfect solution when you’re starting out—it’s budget-friendly and allows you to explore your creative side. But there comes a point when DIY branding starts to hold your business back. If you’re spending hours trying to tweak your logo or feeling like your visuals don’t quite represent your brand, it might be time to bring in a pro designer. Let’s break down the signs that it’s time to stop DIYing and why hiring a professional can transform your brand.

The Early Days of DIY

DIY branding can be a great starting point. Tools like Canva or Adobe Express make it easy to create something functional when you’re just launching your business. In the beginning, your focus is on building momentum, so a simple logo or cohesive color palette might be all you need.

But as your business grows, your branding needs to keep up. That’s where DIY often starts to fall short.

Signs It’s Time to Call in a Pro Designer

1. Your Branding Feels Inconsistent

Are your colors, fonts, and designs all over the place? Consistency is key to building trust with your audience. If your branding looks different across platforms, it’s time to bring in a designer to create a cohesive visual identity.

2. You’re Struggling to Stand Out

If your branding looks generic or too similar to competitors, it’s harder to grab attention. A pro designer can create something unique that sets you apart in a crowded market.

3. Your Audience Isn’t Connecting

Your brand should speak directly to your ideal customers. If your visuals or messaging don’t resonate, you might be missing out on opportunities.

4. It’s Taking Up Too Much Time

DIYing can be a time sink—especially when you’re not sure what works. If you’re spending hours designing instead of growing your business, it’s time to delegate.

5. You’re Ready to Level Up

When you’re ready to raise your prices, attract higher-end clients, or scale your business, professional branding is a must. It signals that you’re serious and helps you attract the right audience.

How a Pro Designer Can Transform Your Brand

A professional designer doesn’t just create a logo—they craft an entire experience. Here’s what you get when you invest in pro branding:

• Strategy-Driven Design: A designer will create visuals based on your goals and audience, ensuring everything aligns with your brand’s purpose.
• Unique Visual Identity: No more templates or copy-paste logos. Your brand will stand out with custom design elements.
• Time Savings: Focus on what you do best while the designer handles the creative work.
• A Polished, Professional Look: Great branding builds trust and helps your business look more credible.

When You’re Ready to Make the Switch

If any of the signs above resonate with you, it’s time to explore your options. Whether you’re looking for a full rebrand or just a refresh, hiring a designer can take your business to the next level.

DIYing can be a great start, but every business reaches a point where it’s time to level up. If you’re ready for branding that reflects your vision and attracts the right audience, let’s chat! I create thoughtful, strategic designs that help businesses thrive.

Check out my services or book a free consultation today—because your brand deserves it!