Designing A Business Logo ~ Why I Procrastinated & What I Learned

A business name and branding logo are important for any small or large venture. This is how clients identify with you and the product/service you provide. Ideally, your name and logo should bring forth some sort of emotional response to the person looking at it.

Since I know all this, why did it take me so long to get a logo designed?

Why I Procrastinated…

I’m sharing because some of you starting a business may be having similar thoughts!

1)  What if I get a logo designed, then decide I want to change it a year down the road?

Fact ~ Many businesses have changed their logo and brand identity over the years. It’s not uncommon. And further more, if the public doesn’t like it (as in the case of the new Coca-Cola or Tropicana branding) people are more than willing to voice their opinions to let the company know!

2)  How will my business evolve?  Will I focus on custom-client work, blogging, a paint or product line, or possibly open a shop? Will my logo stay relevant?

Fact ~ All successful businesses are growing and evolving! This is no excuse not to move forward with a design that fits my business now!

3)  My logo should portray a specific style.  My preferred style is French Country and Distressed Salvaged Furniture, yet I enjoy experimenting with various furniture styles and techniques.

Fact ~ If I choose a logo that reflects my taste and style, it doesn’t mean I can’t experiment and design with various styles and periods of furniture.

4)  I don’t know where to get a professional looking logo and I don’t  have the time to find a graphic designer.

Fact ~ There are numerous online resources for logo designs.  I’ve also come to realize people love to help so asking for references from colleagues and friends is invaluable. If I’m honest, my procrastinating didn’t stem from a lack of resources, but rather a lack of vision. I was wavering on what I wanted my logo to portray. So in true Denise fashion, I took my time gathering information (I’ll post my list next week) and then I moved forward.

5)  It’s not a logo that’s important, but the quality of my work! A logo won’t make or break my business. 

Fact ~ This is true to an extent. My painted furniture continues to sell quickly, and my SI Blog traffic continues to grow. However,having a logo that people will immediately recognize will only benefit the business. Positive visual identity can leave a lasting impression!

So lets start 2015 with my new logo because I’m guessing you must be tired of looking at my blue mug by now. 😉

Thanks to all my Facebook friends/followers for providing over 25 helpful resources to graphic designers… you guys are THE BEST!

The SI Logo was designed by the very talented and creative Marcelo from Mdsgrafix and I have to say, working with him was an amazing experience! Marcelo went above and beyond to get to know me and my style and has created a beautiful logo that portrays my business perfectly.

What I Learned…

After communicating with numerous freelance graphic designers via Zillion Designs, I’ve learned it’s extremely important to choose a graphic designer who listens to your ideas yet has the passion and creativity to share his/her own vision for you! You will work closely with this individual, communicating back and forth on what you like, what you don’t like, and making plenty of revisions, so make sure you’re working with someone you genuinely LIKE.

I also learned, I need to relax a little…lol. There’s no reason to sweat the small stuff. Things (big and small) happen in their own time. It’s all about enjoying the process and not over thinking everything!

So with that said, here’s my SI LOGO REVEAL… {drum roll please}

 

 

Marcelo, if you’re reading this… THANK YOU… I LoooVE what you did!

Now onto my next task, a new theme and look for Salvaged Inspirations. Rather than hiring out, I may try sprucing the site up myself so it may take me a while. I hope you guys are patient with me. 🙂

If you have any tips on logo design or working with a graphic designer, I’d love for you to chime in with your thoughts! And be sure to let me know what you think of the SI Logo!

Thanks for reading and have an amazing day,

Denise x

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