2024 Branding Trends: How to decide.

As a small business or personal brand, we are told to look to trends to improve our marketing, social media and more. And there is major truth behind that insight! But what about when we are deciding on BRANDING for our small business? As a brand designer, I often see businesses fall into the trap of simply mimicking what's currently popular. They go to Pinterest for ideas and land on a feed with neutrals and minimal uniqueness. While staying current might seem beneficial, it's crucial to recognize that following trends for your branding isn't always the best choice. Here's why—and how a strategic approach to branding can set you apart.

1. Lack of Authenticity

Trends come and go, but your brand's core identity should be timeless. When you chase trends, you risk losing the essence of what makes your brand unique. Authenticity resonates with your audience more deeply than the latest design fad ever could.

2. Short-Lived Relevance

If your brand is built on the latest trend, you might find yourself needing a rebrand sooner than you'd like, which can be costly and confusing for your audience.

3. Blending In, Not Standing Out

When you follow trends in branding, you often end up looking like everyone else. This can make it difficult for your brand to stand out in a crowded market. The goal of branding is to create a distinct identity that sets you apart, not to blend in with the crowd.

4. Missed Connection with Your Audience

Your ideal client or customer is a big factor in your brand design. When you just focus on aesthetics and aren’t strategic about WHO you are serving and HOW that is portrayed in your branding, you are doing everyone a huge disservice.

A Strategic Approach

to Branding

Here’s where a designer’s expertise comes into play. A strategic approach to branding involves a thorough process to ensure your brand is both meaningful and effective.

As a brand designer, there are many factors I consider before starting your branding - my brand questionare is the first piece of information I look to. This gives me insight that you might not have previously considered, into your brand, mission, ideal audience and core values.

Then as we start to look at aesthetics - a collaborative Pinterest Board is the first step before I do ANY DESIGNING. A lot of times, your pinterest board will be diverse and clients will say “I don’t know how you will narrow this down” - But thats where I bring my expertise as a Brand Designer. I see things in a way that you may not, which is what makes it such a valuable investment in your business.

Neutrals are Timeless & can give a clean or sophisticated look - but are they the best choice for your branding That depends, I take color psychology & other factors from your brand question responses to decide. Sometimes, color IS the vibe!

In a world that’s constantly changing, staying true to your brand’s identity while strategically adapting to the market is the key to long-term success. Avoid the temptation to chase trends for the sake of appearing current.

Instead, invest in a strategic branding process that builds a solid foundation for your brand, ensuring it stands the test of time and truly connects with your audience.

By working with a skilled designer, you can create a brand that’s not only visually appealing but also meaningful and impactful. Let’s build a brand that tells your unique story and sets you apart from the rest.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MY BRANDING SERVICES HERE

For more tips on branding and design, follow me on Instagram @confident.creator.