You’ve decided to start a business. You know the product or service you want to provide, but you don’t know where to go from there. Start with what’s equally as important as what you provide; a logo. There are many do’s and don’ts involved in logo design. This post is for designers and non-designers alike who are interested in learning more about logo design and why your favorite logos make sense and become memorable.

A logo is more than just coming up with an image that looks nice. There are multiple things to consider in order for your logo to make sense and set your company apart from others. Unfortunately, most people believe that designing a logo is fast and easy, simply putting a few shapes together, some text, and bam you’re done. But what isn’t clear is that there is a lot of science, math, and research involved in creating a successful and visually representative logo.

Define and Research Your Target Audience

The purpose of knowing your target audience is to make sure the logo and brand is attractive and visually appealing to them. You personally may like a certain color or font, but does it catch the attention of your customers, clients, or readers? Take yourself out of the picture and put your audience first. It may be your business, but it will not succeed without your customers, clients, or readers.

Strive For Something Different

This is your opportunity to be creative and think outside the box. Create a logo that will set your business/brand/self apart. Find inspiration in designs that have already been created, but strive for something unique. One of the benefits of branding is the ability to set yourself apart from your competition.

Sketch and Keep it Simple

This is one of the most important parts of the creative process. Remove all your worries and hesitations and let your creativity roam free. Just start sketching! Play with different ideas. Fill up with as many pages you like, but don’t erase anything. You never know if you will like an element from one idea and want to incorporate it into another. Create different variations. Remember to keep your logo simple. There is no need to add millions of bells and whistles to make it stand out. A common rule with design is to highlight one feature of the logo. Just one, no more!

Color and Typography are Important!

Fonts have a personality of their own and can tell your audience what they can expect from your brand. The colors you choose are important because they make us think and feel a certain way. Here’s a tip for you when choosing a font: NEVER EVER use Comic Sans! It is the kind of typeface that makes people cringe (especially designers) and will make it difficult for people to take you seriously. Be easy on the effects as well. It may look cool to you, but to others, it can be too much to look at and turn them away. Be easy on the eye. Take some time playing with different fonts and color associations as you consider which ones best represent your brand. Remember, first impressions are crucial.

Ask for Feedback From Others

This is just as important as the initial design. It’s easy to get tunnel vision when designing a logo, so this is the best time for you to take a step back and ask for feedback from people you trust. Look for friends and family that you know will give you an honest opinion, no matter how much it may hurt you. Those are the people that honestly want the best for you and your business. They may see something in the negative space that isn’t appropriate or a word that is misspelled or the logo just doesn’t work for your target audience. Whatever it may be, it’s always best to get a second opinion.

Designing a logo can be complicated and a bit overwhelming, especially for those who are just starting out. If you don’t want to take on the task, it’s best to hire a professional graphic designer. They have studied and have the necessary skills to design an excellent logo for your brand. It doesn’t matter if you own a business, maintain a blog, or are working on your personal brand — great logo will help you stay “top of mind” with your audience!

Need help with getting started? Media Monkey can help you create the perfect logo for your business or brand. Our designers understand the needs of businesses and what it takes to make the perfect design. They can also build on the logo, and create a cohesive brand! Contact us today, we’d be happy to go through the process with you and answer any questions you may have.