How to pick n' stick to your branding

What do they have that I don’t?

Have you ever walked by a booth at a market or event that seemed to be drawing everyone in?  You thought wow I want people to look at my booth and products in that way.  I’ll tell you a little secret, it’s likely because they have gotten super clear on their branding.  They know what their ideal customer likes and they’re speaking directly to them.

Where do I even start with my branding?

Business name and logo…

If you already have this great! If not, I’ve got you.  First you need a business name and a logo (a logo isn’t necessary when just starting out but is a good goal to have).  It doesn’t have to be anything crazy or fancy.  Just something to define that these are your products.  It can even be your business name in a cute font.  You can spend money and have a graphic designer create one for your, or you can go to Etsy for templates, or create your own on one of my favorite programs, Canva.  Here’s the trick though, pick something (business name/logo) and stick to it.  I have seen and personally wasted money on constantly changing my logo and branding thinking that a new cute logo would sell my products (spoiler it didn’t and hasn’t. I’ve had the same plain logo for years now and to this day people still comment on how they love it).

Once you have decided on a name and/or logo you need to choose how you will permanently get this onto every one of your products.  This is extremely important because once your product goes to its new home it’s very likely that it’s new owner will forget your business name.  They will probably remember they got it at a market but that’s about it, it’s sad but it’s true.  If you don’t have it permanently attached, how will they find you again to make another purchase or refer you to someone who asked them where they got that cute necklace, fragrant candle, or beautiful handbag?  This needs to be a non-removable option.  It can be a sticker, stamp, wood burning, leather patch, fabric patch, impression, you get it.  A simple business card or hang tag will not do, I can’t tell you how many business cards I’ve kept with good intentions of remembering that business but can’t find it if it’s not affixed to that product and now have not gone back to be a repeat customer. 

Brand Vibe

Next you must choose your brand vibe.  What does it feel like when someone walks by your booth and sees your products.  It doesn’t necessarily have to be specific colors..  It just has to be a vibe or feeling..  Now if sticking to certain colors only is your thing that’s fine too, but I’m more concerned about the feel.  Is it neutral and cozy, earthy or woodsy, modern and bold, bright and colorful, moody and dark.  Whatever it is, pick it and stick to it.  This will attract the right customers and repel the wrong ones which is what we want.  You want your dream customers to walk by your booth and think I love everything in here now what is going home with me (a.k.a. sales).

Get Crystal Clear

Why is this SOOOO important.  I’ll keep it short and sweet here.  If you’re speaking to everyone, you’re speaking to nobody.  You want to attract your ideal customer, it’s that simple.  When your booth look/vibe and product offering speak to them they will stop at your booth and likely make a purchase without even thinking very hard.

The benefit of having clear branding when it comes to your products and booth is that you will stand out and have increased sales.  You will have the opportunity to sell to your dream customers and potentially to your dream stores.  Selling will now become much easier instead of being a pain point in your business.

Let’s Do This!

So now you have learned how to get started in your branding, why it’s so important, and how it will benefit your business.  If you’re at a loss for where to order your branding materials here are a few of my favorite small businesses that can help you!

Elemental Craftworks - laser designs

Inked Papers - sewn on labels

Haus of Print - anything printed but especially stickers!

Paper Sushi - custom paper and fabric stamps