Did you ever feel like figuring out your brand is as tough as understanding high school math? I hear you. Remember those math classes where formulas seemed like a secret code meant to trip us up? Well, branding can feel the same way – overwhelming, confusing, and just plain hard to crack. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be.

Take a stroll down memory lane with me. High school math was a nightmare. Trying to wrap my head around those formulas felt like trying to learn an alien language. The worst part? The teachers often didn’t speak my language either. It wasn't just me; it was the way they presented the information.

Now, imagine branding your business is the same. You're bombarded with advice, strategies, and tips that make you feel like you need to be a branding genius to get it right. It’s no wonder you’re overwhelmed. Maybe you’ve felt like you’re drowning in a sea of information with no lifeboat in sight. But here’s the good news: just like finding the right math tutor made all the difference, finding a clear, simple path to branding can turn things around.

Before you dive into the design, colors, and logos, let's focus on something even more fundamental – your brand values. They are the core of your brand’s identity. They shape how your brand looks, feels, and speaks to your audience.

Here are 5 small business branding tips to help you find that spark and simplify your branding journey:

#1 Know Your Why

Start by asking yourself why you started your business. What passion drives you? Understanding your core motivation can help shape your brand’s values. It’s like finding your favorite pair of sweatpants – comforting, familiar, and totally you.

#2 Define Your Values:

Identify 3-5 core values that truly represent your brand. These values will guide every decision you make and ensure consistency in your messaging. Think of them as your brand’s guiding light, like a lighthouse guiding ships safely to shore.

#3 Understand Your Audience:

Who are you speaking to? Knowing your audience inside out helps tailor your messaging and visual identity. It’s like having a chat with a good friend – you know what makes them tick, what excites them, and what they need.

#4 Create a Visual Mood Board:

Before choosing your brand colors and fonts, gather images, colors, and designs that resonate with your brand values. This visual representation will help you see the bigger picture. It’s like planning a room makeover – you need to see all the elements together before making any decisions.

#5 Stay Authentic:

Authenticity shines through and builds trust with your audience. Don’t try to be something you’re not. Let your brand reflect the real you. It’s like sharing a Laid-Back Bellini with friends – genuine, relaxed, and completely you.

Now, you might be feeling overwhelmed by where to start - I’ve got just the thing to help you out. I sat my bum down and created a free workbook on Figuring Out Your Brand Values for entrepreneurs (just like you) who are stuck on their business journey to take the first step toward creating a brand that truly resonates with you and your audience.

Ready to fall back in love with your brand? Let’s light that spark and set your brand on fire (metaphorically speaking! or not if you want to start fresh, up to you). Grab your workbook and let’s get started!

Virtual high-five,

Vroni

---

tl;dr

By focusing on your brand values first, you’ll build a strong foundation that makes the rest of your branding journey smoother and more fun. Remember, it’s all about finding your spark and letting it shine. You've got this!