Why is DIY-ing a brand for your creative business so hard?
So you’re trying to DIY your creative brand? I see you over there pouring your heart and soul into your business. You have a vision, a dream, and an unstoppable drive to make it happen. But when it comes to branding, you might be feeling a bit stuck, frustrated, or even overwhelmed. And guess what? That’s perfectly normal. DIY-ing your brand is tough – and it’s not because you’re not talented or driven enough. It's just the nature of the beast. Let’s dive into why this is so challenging and how you can make the process smoother, with a little help along the way.
The Subjectivity Trap
Your brand is a reflection of your vision, passion, and hard work, and it's hard to step back and look at it objectively. You’re emotionally invested because it’s more than just a business to you – it’s your creative expression, your dream, and a significant part of your identity. This deep connection can cloud your judgement and make it difficult to see things from your audience’s perspective.
When you're so close to your brand, it’s easy to create something that resonates deeply with you but may not connect with your target audience. You might focus on elements that are personally meaningful while overlooking what your audience finds engaging and relatable. This can lead to a brand you love, but that doesn’t necessarily achieve the results you want in the market.
DIY Branding Tip #1: Seek Feedback
Don’t go at it alone. Gather a trusted group of peers, mentors, or even some of your dreamiest clients. Ask for their honest opinions and be open to their feedback. Ensure the people you seek feedback from either belong to your target audience or have a deep understanding of it. This way, you can avoid creating a brand that you love but doesn’t achieve the results you want. An outside perspective can shed light on areas you might have overlooked and help align your brand with what resonates most with your audience.
The Overwhelm of Choices
When it comes to branding, the sheer number of choices can be incredibly daunting. From colour palettes to fonts, logo designs to brand voice, there are endless options to consider. And when you’re DIY-ing, it’s all on you to make these decisions. Each choice feels monumental because it’s shaping how the world will see your brand.
This overwhelming array of options can lead to decision fatigue, where you end up second-guessing every choice or, worse, avoiding decisions altogether. You want every element to be perfect, but with so many possibilities, it’s easy to feel stuck and unsure of where to start.
DIY Branding Tip #2: Start with Your Why
So, let’s make it easier on yourself! Go back to the roots of why you started your business. What’s your mission? What are your core values? Use these as your guiding light to narrow down your choices. When every element aligns with your core purpose, it creates a cohesive and authentic brand. By focusing on your “why,” you can streamline your decisions and ensure that your brand reflects your true essence and truly speaks to your audience.
Remember, it’s all about staying true to what you believe in and what makes your brand unique!
Skills and Expertise
Branding isn’t just about making things look pretty. It’s a blend of art and science, requiring a deep understanding of marketing, design principles, psychology, and more. If you don’t have a background in these areas, it can feel like you’re in over your head.
Branding involves knowing what colours evoke certain emotions, how fonts can influence perceptions, and how to create a visual identity that tells your brand’s story. It’s about crafting a narrative that resonates with your audience and makes them feel connected to your brand. Without the right skills and expertise, it’s easy to make choices that don’t align with your brand’s message or appeal to your target audience.
DIY Branding Tip #3: Educate Yourself
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have all the skills right now. There are countless resources available online – from articles and e-books to webinars and courses. Invest some time in learning the basics of branding. This knowledge will not only help you DIY more effectively but also make you a more informed client if you decide to seek professional help.
But remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Sometimes, bringing in an expert can save you time, stress, and even money in the long run.
Pssst…If you're fed up with wasting hours on Creative Market trying to piece together a brand that just doesn't click, I'm here for you. Get in touch to find out how I can help you create a brand that truly reflects your vision.
The Comparison Game
In the age of social media, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your brand to others. You see these polished, professional brands and feel like you’re not measuring up. This can be disheartening and lead to second-guessing your efforts. Worse, you might be tempted to copy those who inspire you, which can dilute your unique vibe and make your brand feel less authentic.
DIY Branding Tip #4: Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
Remember that every successful brand started somewhere. Focus on your journey and the progress you’re making rather than trying to match someone else’s highlight reel. Celebrate small wins and keep moving forward.
Remember that every successful brand started somewhere. Focus on your journey and the progress you’re making rather than trying to match someone else’s highlight reel. Celebrate small wins and keep moving forward.
I totally get it – trying to stand out in a crowded marketplace can feel like an uphill battle. But here's the thing – your brand is unique because of you. Instead of comparing yourself to others, lean into what makes your brand special. Embrace your individuality and let it shine through in your branding. It’s your authentic voice that will attract your ideal clients and set you apart from the rest.
Knowing When to Ask for Help
DIY-ing your brand doesn’t mean you have to do it all by yourself. There’s no shame in reaching out for a helping hand, especially when it can save you time, stress, and even money in the long run. Branding is a critical part of your business, and getting it right can make a huge difference. When I was rebranding Me & Spirit, I worked with another designer who helped me with creative direction. It was great for getting me unstuck and helping me move forward.
DIY Branding Tip #5: Know Your Limits
It’s totally okay to admit when you’re in over your head. If you find yourself stuck or overwhelmed, it might be time to bring in a pro. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can spot things you’ve missed and help you get back on track. And hey, I get it – asking for help with creative services can feel a bit daunting, but trust me, it's not your fault – just see all the previous sections of this blog!
And hey, if you’re fed up with wrestling with Canva or pulling your hair out over font choices, I’m here for you. Think of me as your branding sidekick – ready to help you turn your vision into a brand that feels just right for you.
Making the Process Smoother
Whether you’re DIY-ing your brand or considering professional help, here are a few more tips to keep the process smooth and enjoyable:
Embrace Your Authenticity
Your brand should be a true reflection of who you are and what you stand for. Don’t try to mimic others. Instead, lean into your creativity and let your unique voice shine through. Authenticity is your magic ingredient – it’s what will make your brand one-of-a-kind.
Create a Mood Board
Visualising your brand can help clarify your ideas and keep you focused. Create a mood board with colours, images, words, and designs that inspire you. This can serve as a reference point and keep you aligned with your brand’s essence.
Keep It Simple
It’s easy to get carried away with intricate designs and complex ideas. Remember that simplicity often leads to clarity, especially when it comes to logos. A clean, straightforward brand can be more impactful than one that’s cluttered and confusing.
Stay Consistent
Consistency is key in branding. Your brand should feel consistent across all platforms, from your logo and colour scheme to your messaging and tone of voice. Having a versatile suite of brand elements makes this easier to achieve. This builds recognition and trust with your audience.
Final Thoughts
Branding your creative business is no small feat, but understanding why it's so challenging can help you navigate the process with more ease and confidence. Whether it's dealing with the subjectivity trap, the overwhelm of choices, or the temptation to compare yourself to others, remember that it's all part of the journey. Embrace your authenticity, seek feedback, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Remember, you don’t have to go it alone. Embrace the journey, seek the support you need, and watch your brand blossom into something extraordinary. You’ve got this!
Struggling with your DIY branding? Let’s chat over a cuppa. Together, we’ll uncover your secret sauce and create a brand that’s vibrant, empowering, and truly one-of-a-kind.
Struggling with your DIY brand?
Let's chat over a cuppa. Together, we'll uncover your secret sauce and create a brand that's vibrant, empowering and truly one-of-a-kind.
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