5 Steps to Creating a Killer Visual Brand

Are you in love with your visual brand for your business? What do you wish could be better about it? In this post, I am talking all about your physical brand. This is the fun part where we get to talk all about what makes your brand look amazing and feel like you. My 5 steps to creating a killer visual brand will leave you feeling confident in creating what you really want!

Michelle Gifford Podcast · Ep 158 What they see: Getting your physical brand right

This visual brand is the third element of the “Make your Mark” level that I’ve been discussing as part of my Money Maker Method. If you’ve missed the first few blog posts, check them out here. You can also follow along on my podcast where I’m sharing all of my biz secrets to help you make more money for your business. Why, do you ask? Because I’m happy you’re here and I want to be the first one to tell you that you should do the business you feel called to create.

OK, let’s jump into my 5 steps to creating a killer visual brand! There are so many different directions to go and so many options to choose from when creating your visual brand, or rebranding, so it can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. The most important thing to remember is that you won’t be married to this brand forever, and it’s better to just make a decision and move forward.

Create a visual brand you love. www.iammichellegifford.com

The first thing I want you to know is you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars in order to create a visual brand you love. There are ways to DIY it, or if you want professional help, my agency creates your brand from start to finish. You can check out my agency here.

The 5 steps to creating a killer visual brand are pillar words, logo, colors, fonts, and supporting elements. Nurturing each of these elements as you create your visual brand will give you a good quality brand that people will recognize and remember–and one that really feels like you!

Step #1 to Creating a Killer Visual Brand: Pillar Words

What are 3-5 pillar words that describe your business? These words really determine how your brand shows up. For my business, my pillar words are relatable, fun, and action-oriented. Think of what yours could be if you haven’t decided already and then move forward from there.

These pillar words act as a touchstone so that whenever you’re making decisions about what to do as a brand or what it looks like, you can come back to these. Remember when we talked about who your ideal customer is and what they like? Think of that person and what would visually appeal to them, but also aligns with the brand you want to build.

Step #2 to Creating a Killer Visual Brand: Logo

There are three different methods to use when creating your logo. You can use Canva to create one for free, or you can use fiverr.com where you can use a graphic designer to make you one for cheap, or go to a professional to create your logo and brand altogether. These are different options to match where you’re at in your business and what’s a priority to you.

I’ve never stressed too much about a logo. Especially if you’re a creative or a personal brand, don’t spend too much time or worry about creating the “perfect” logo. It’s better to just make a decision and commit to it and then move on.

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Step #3 to Creating a Killer Visual Brand: Colors

I love thinking of colors and trying to match them with how I want a brand to feel. People can sometimes underestimate the power of color in a visual brand. This is another reason why I love this Money Maker Method because it’s a little bit different than what others teach.

You probably have a personal element to your brand, right? For example, you’re showing up on your Instagram stories or making personal posts where people associate you with your brand. I’m pointing this out because it might alter the colors you choose for your brand. Choosing colors that you look good in for your brand colors is always a smart choice!

So, maybe you know what colors look good on you, but what about knowing what colors flow together? A simple Pinterest search of brand color schemes will do the trick. You can use these as inspiration to help decide which colors you want to use. (Don’t get lost in the depths of Pinterest, though! Remember, pick one and move on. Say it with me, action brings clarity.)

One more tip I have to include in this colors step is how having a basic understanding of color theory can really help. Listen to my podcast episode where I share a quick list of what each color represents and what feelings each one evokes.)

Step #4 to Creating a Killer Visual Brand: Fonts

Choosing fonts for your visual brand is a pretty easy step. Just make sure to use at least two fonts that are easy to read. I know, scripty fonts are pretty tempting, but remember clarity always trumps cute. If you end up wanting to use a script font, make sure you have two or three other ones that should be used on pins or on things that people will want to read quickly and easily.

Step #5 to Creating a Killer Visual Brand: Supporting Elements

The supporting elements are how you take your visual brand up a notch. Maybe you decide all your designs will have polka dots, or lines, arches, or something that you use all the time in your branding. Find a supporting element you like and that will improve your brand and start using it over and over again in your visuals across all your platforms.

This will up-level your brand because people will recognize that design and associate it with your brand. This will make your brand more memorable, which is something we always want! To browse different elements you’d like to implement, you can search on Canva or look on Pinterest for inspiration.

how to create an amazing visual brand for your biz for free. www.iammichellegifford.com

Quick Branding Pro Tip

Once you’ve nailed down these 5 steps to creating a killer visual brand, create several different templates you can use on your social media platforms (e.g. Instagram stories, carousel posts, or quote posts), so they are ready to use. This will make it easy for you to quickly post something last minute or make your overall content creation almost automated, or at least faster!