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Ignite branding success with visual design

Branding specialists will likely begin a conversation about branding with ‘branding is not just a logo’. Ahem, having said that, visual design can have a great impact on your brand.

Lets take a look into the realm of visual design and its transformative impact on branding. Our spotlight shines on two exceptional UK companies—Joe & Seph’s Gourmet Popcorn and Innocent Drinks—unveiling the secret sauce behind their branding triumphs. Get ready for a thrilling exploration of the profound value of visual design!

Why is the visual element of a brand so important?

We often hear the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” But let’s be real, we’re all guilty of being swayed by aesthetics. In the competitive business landscape, visual design acts as the gateway to capturing attention, communicating brand values, and forging a deep connection with consumers. Here’s how it works:

  1. First Impressions Matter: In the blink of an eye, consumers form opinions about a brand based on visual cues. A well-crafted visual identity grabs attention, piques curiosity, and entices further exploration. It’s the hook that reels people in and invites them to take a closer look.
  2. Building Brand Recognition: Consistency is key. A visually cohesive brand identity, featuring elements like colours, typography, and imagery, reinforces recognition across various touchpoints. When consumers spot your brand’s visual signature, they instantly associate it with the quality and experiences you deliver.
  3. Emotional Engagement: Visual design has the incredible power to evoke emotions and create meaningful connections. By tapping into the psychology of colours, shapes, and imagery, brands can influence perceptions, build trust, and trigger positive emotions. It’s the secret sauce that leaves a lasting impact on consumers’ hearts and minds.

How visual psychology works

Visual psychology, also known as visual perception or visual cognition, explores how the human mind processes and interprets visual information. It encompasses various principles and phenomena that influence how we perceive and make sense of the visual world. Here are some key concepts and mechanisms in visual psychology:

  1. Gestalt Principles: The Gestalt principles describe how humans naturally perceive and organize visual elements. These principles include:

  • Proximity: Objects that are close to each other are perceived as a group.
  • Similarity: Objects that share similar attributes (e.g., shape, color, size) are perceived as belonging together.
  • Continuity: People tend to perceive smooth, continuous lines or patterns, even if they are interrupted.
  • Closure: When presented with incomplete or ambiguous information, we tend to mentally complete the missing parts.
  • Figure-Ground: We automatically distinguish objects from their background, perceiving one as the main focus (figure) and the other as the surrounding area (ground).

  1. Visual Hierarchy: Visual hierarchy refers to the arrangement of visual elements in a way that guides the viewer’s attention and understanding. By using techniques such as size, colour, contrast, and positioning, designers can create a hierarchy of importance and direct the viewer’s gaze to key elements or messages.
  2. Colour Psychology: Colors can evoke emotions, associations, and perceptions. Different colours have been shown to have psychological effects on individuals. For example, red can convey excitement or danger, while blue is often associated with calmness or trust. Colour choices in branding and design can influence how people perceive and respond to a brand or message.
  3. Visual Illusions: Visual illusions occur when our perception of an image or object differs from its physical reality. These illusions demonstrate how our brain interprets visual information and can be influenced by factors such as context, contrast, and depth cues. Visual illusions provide insights into the mechanisms of visual perception and the role of the brain in constructing our visual experiences.
  4. Visual Attention: Visual attention refers to the selective focus of our attention on specific visual stimuli. Our attention is drawn to elements that stand out due to factors like colour, contrast, motion, or novelty. Understanding visual attention can help designers and advertisers capture and maintain the viewer’s attention effectively.
  5. Memory and Recall: Visual stimuli are often better remembered and recalled compared to other forms of information. The brain’s ability to form mental images and associations aids in memory encoding and retrieval. Visual cues, such as images or icons, can enhance memory and facilitate information processing and recall.

Visual psychology is a multidisciplinary field that combines cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and design principles to understand how visual information is perceived, processed, and interpreted by individuals. By applying these principles in branding, design, marketing, and user experience, professionals can create visually appealing and effective communications that resonate with the target audience.

It’s important to note that visual psychology works in conjunction with other branding elements, such as messaging, brand values, and customer experience. A comprehensive branding strategy considers how visual elements align with the overall brand identity and how they can evoke the desired emotions, perceptions, and associations in the target audience.

Let’s take a look at an example where visual identity played a significant role in improving brand perception and driving sales.

Joe & Seph’s Gourmet Popcorn is a UK-based gourmet popcorn company known for its innovative flavours and visually appealing packaging.

  1. Unique Flavor Combinations: Joe & Seph’s offers a wide range of unique and inventive popcorn flavours, such as Gin & Tonic, Caramel Macchiato, and Goat Cheese & Black Pepper. The company’s visually distinctive flavour combinations set them apart from traditional popcorn brands and cater to adventurous consumers seeking new taste experiences.
  2. Premium Packaging: Joe & Seph’s pays great attention to its packaging design, opting for a premium look and feel. The popcorn comes in vibrant and eye-catching bags with elegant typography and high-quality graphics. The packaging conveys a sense of indulgence and worthiness, appealing to both personal and gifting markets.
  3. Transparent Production Process: The company emphasizes transparency in its production process, showcasing the quality of their ingredients and the craftsmanship involved. Visual cues, such as images of the popcorn being handmade and descriptions of the natural ingredients used, create trust and authenticity among consumers.
  4. Seasonal and Limited Edition Offerings: Joe & Seph’s regularly introduces seasonal and limited edition flavours, leveraging visual storytelling through packaging design. These special editions feature unique illustrations, patterns, or colour schemes that reflect the theme or occasion, creating excitement and driving impulse purchases.
  5. Online Presence and Branding: Joe & Seph’s maintains a strong online presence, including an engaging website and active social media accounts. They use visually appealing product photography, behind-the-scenes content, and user-generated images to showcase their popcorn and connect with their audience. The visual consistency across their digital platforms reinforces their brand image and encourages online sales.

Through their emphasis on visual identity, Joe & Seph’s has achieved several positive outcomes:

  • Differentiation: The company’s unique flavour combinations and visually appealing packaging distinguish them from traditional popcorn brands, capturing the attention of consumers seeking gourmet and artisanal options.
  • Elevated Brand Perception: The premium packaging design and transparent production process contribute to a perception of quality, craftsmanship, and authenticity, enhancing the brand’s image among consumers.
  • Increased Sales and Brand Loyalty: The visually distinctive packaging, seasonal offerings, and engaging online presence drive customer engagement, repeat purchases, and positive word-of-mouth recommendations, resulting in increased sales and brand loyalty.


The Transformative Magic

Visual design is the unsung hero of branding. It captivates, communicates, and connects. Joe & Seph’s Gourmet Popcorn showcases how harnessing the power of visual design can elevate a brand’s appeal, foster customer loyalty, and drive success. So, embrace the visual magic and unleash your brand’s full potential!

Book a call

Book a call If you would like to know more about how design and branding can transform your business.

Oryx Properties

Oryx Properties

Oryx Properties

Visual Identity design

Oryx Properties Ltd is a property development company with big plans for the local Warwickshire area. Working in both development and letting, they are developing both arms of the business.

We provided a visual identity and considerations for the future growth of the brand.

Branding is a living process. It requires constant adjustment dependent on audience perception and an overall business plan. As the company interacts with its audience, over time there will be opportunities to gather feedback, fine-tune interactions and develop plans.

 

Case Study

The visual identity demonstrates key values; quality, creativity and reliability. We used a simple, modern typeface to support the key values while also providing maximum legibility (vital for unfamiliar words). A colour palette of grey and yellow suggests stability and energy, as does the customised logomark.

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand

International Artists Management

International Artists Management

International Artists Managemenr

A leading talent agency

IAM are a Global Talent Agency with a high profile talent portfolio.They have a great reputation with prestigious casting agents and production houses. 

We were tasked with an updated visual identity and website to reflect their rising position as one of London’s top agencies.

Our outcome is a modern, minimalist visual identity that reflects authority and style.

Case Study

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand

What is branding and how does it help?

What is branding and how does it help?​

What is branding and how does it help?​​

The misconception

Often business owners will commission a logo for £300 (or so), build a website, create social media posts and spend thousands of pounds on Google ads, Facebook ads etc.

This could be harmful in the long term because they may never be able to go beyond the first impression they make on their audience.

One of the most popular quotes about branding is from Jeff Bezos; “your brand is what people say about you when you are not in the room”.

Branding is much more than a logo. It takes research, context to create something that will serve you.

 

Internal Brand

The initial work required to create a powerful brand is below the surface ie; purpose, vision, mission and values. Branding has evolved with the times and in the modern climate, customers demand authenticity. So internal branding has never been more important. 

In the past Brands had a one way conversation with their audience. Now, however with the advent of social media, consumers have all the power. 

Many brands have seen the value in taking a stance on an issue. The value is they align themselves with their audience on common issues and gain trust.

Purpose is the reason why you do what you do. Values are the way you do those things. Visions is what you commit to aspire to and your Mission was what you commit to do every day. 

The well-known example is Unilever Who on launching their sustainable living brands, grew 69% faster than the rest of their brands.

 

Positioning

Once you have established a reason for your brand, the next step is to create a unique position in the market. Positioning happens in the mind of your audience. Once you have identified and understood your target audience you take a position that will best attract them. 

You may have heard of client avatars.This is really important part of creating a powerful brand because the more you understand who you are addressing the more effectively you can understand them and offer what they need.

Aside from the audience you must also analise your competitors.  What are their strengths and weaknesses? What is your audience’s point of view of them? What are they happy about? What are they unhappy about? 

You may see where there is a gap, where your competitors are falling down, where they could be an improvement of service that hasn’t been considered.  This will help you stand out and offer something valuable.

 

Character

Once you know your position, you can establish some sort of character. In fiction you may have heard of character archetypes i.e. the Sage, the Hero, the Explorer, the Outlaw, etc. Branding experts use this understanding of archetypes to create instant familiarity.  We all know these characters. They exist in our psyche

Once you know which archetype your audience represents, you can build the personality of your business around them. A great example is Harley-Davidson. They appeal to the outlaw within us. We may not leave our job and hit the road but if we buy a Harley, we can ride into the sunset on a Sunday before teatime. 

Archetypes are a shortcut to familiarity and trust.

 

Verbal Expression

Once we have established a character, we can create the verbal expression. Our core message, brand story and brand voice will come from character. The core message is a framework for how to talk about your business, the pain points you address, the benefits you provide and how you differ. 

The common misconception with Brand Story is that it is an opportunity to talk about yourself and how you started your business. Brand story is the story of your target audience, 

Film writers recognise the work of Jopseph Campbell (the Hero’s Journey) who understand that the hero of any story goes through the same story beats. And this is consistent across l cultures. The great value of telling a story is that as human beings story is in our DNA. We empathise with the hero of a story. We feel what the feel. We become them. 

Brands understand this and position themselves as a support to their audience who is the hero of their own journey. The brand story becomes the heroic journey your audience takes. It will include;
– what their existing world look like

– the obstacles they face

– the call to action that makes a change to their circumstances

– meeting the guide (you) 

– what happens when they meet you

– the challenges they face

– the transformation they go through

– what the new world looks like once they’ve worked with you

There’s a huge amount of content that can be drawn from these this structure. If it is used in bite-size chunks across your posts, people will find themselves in the story they will relate empathize and they will want to interact.

 

Visual expression

The final execution of branding is the visual representation which has the job of providing a hook in the memory of your audience. It is well understood that the human mind attaches meaning to visual shapes and speech sounds in a consistent way. We can see in animation how characters are drawn in ways that provide characteristics ie; they could be very square shaped heads; ie; the the old man from ‘Up’. Boxy shapes give a traditional, reliable characteristic. Round characters are charismatic, endearing, harmless and friendly. Triangular characters are often seen as cunning and dynamic. 

When we understand the psychology of shapes we can apply them to logo design and typography. They help create character. 

In the same way colour is understood to have particular qualities ie; orange – optimistic, friendly, red – excitement,  blue – Trust (many companies use blue in their branding)

 

How does Branding help?

If you invest in branding it will always provide a return on your investment. It will save you time and money. Branding provides definition and clarity for yourself and your team. Branding engages and inspires employees. It attracts top talent, is a guide to effective advertising and marketing. Branding improves recognition and creates trust. It generates new customers and creates financial value. Branding also goes beyond the mundane business transaction to something human and relatable.

If you would like a free 20-minute review of your branding or a discussion about how we can help, please do get intouch: mario@barbacreative.com

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand

MLI Talent

Michelle Liebetrau International

Michelle Liebetrau International

Case Study

Michelle Liebetrau International talent were looking to upgrade their online presence. They needed a refresh to stand toe-to-toe with the many London agencies.

Case Study

We adjusted the company name to help create a memorable hook in the fast-moving talent market. We also created a typographic logo to support the new name and a CMS website that allows easy frequent updates.

Positioning

Identifying a desired market position helps inform the visual style

Adjusting the name

A memorable name is a useful tool in gaining recognition in the minds of the busy London talent market. The value of a good brand name is it’s ability to be recalled quickly and easily. 

ML International Talent becomes MLI

The abbreviation is easier to pronounce and easier to remember. It becomes simpler to use and therefore has more potential to remain in the mind of the viewer.

 

Logo design

A customised typographic solution supports the name provides the necessary familiarity and a modern feel.

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An adaptable Website

An editable website that presents quality talent and regularly updated information

What the client said...

Company director Michelle Liebetrau of MLI: 

Mario’s professionalism, attention to detail and design selections were of exceptional quality. He helped resolve many issues in question and we have been very happy with the end result.

Case Study

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand

Business name vs personal name

Personal brand name vs business brand name

Personal brand name vs business brand name

Should I start with my own name?

Business owners who work alone often ask the question whether using their name for their company name, is a good idea or not.

It is the simplest way to get started ie; turn up as your authentic self and sell what you do. It is straightforward and that has great value.

It capitalises on your reputation. You have instant credibility and trust (immediate brand equity). It also gives some indication of what makes you different and shows that you are passionate about what you do.

But if you are starting out it can be frightening to put yourself out there on such a personal level.

Modern branding is all about ‘authenticity’. Consumers want raw honesty, real people and real stories.

Customers are more likely to talk to people who have their own personal brand. They want a solution to their problems. If you fulfil that need and you are a personal brand; happy days.

The big brands have understood and become more human personalities. They want what their audience wants ie; Harley Davidson represents the corporate man breaking free of the mundane life.


The downside to using your own name

How does your potential audience recognise you if they do not know you personally? A limitation is that strangers do not get an immediate indication of who you are.

There could be practical issues ie: your name may be difficult to read or pronounce, your name has a meaning which is not associated with your business.

It could possibly limit growth because your business will always be associated with you alone.

It could also be a missed opportunity to define what you actually do. A good business name will be a memory aid for your audience. If it’s memorable, it shows some character and it defines what you do, is working well.

Part of the branding process is to create a business name that reflects your brand personality. 

A business brand with a relatable name can make what you stand for much clearer but it will take more time to generate a reputation.

For example, you are a Business Coach. If you use your personal name, your potential audience will only know you as one of many. If your audience is specific ie; Healthcare industry, you can relate to them far better with a relevant business name. They will already recognise themselves as part of your audience.  

If you are running a business you become a manager and you may stop doing the work you actually enjoy. But if you have surrounded yourself with a business brand, then you have some room to manoeuvre. You can choose what you do/don’t do. And if necessary you can sell the business and its reputation.

If you solely running a personal brand, you do not have the option. You ‘are’ the brand. You cannot sell it on.

In conclusion both serve a different purpose. Many people will develop their personal brand alongside a business brand.

Contact us if you would like to discuss your business name. 

Case Stu

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand

Canva Templates

Canva is a great tool if you know how to use it!

Creating standard design templates for our clients

Canva is an excellent design platform for creating great design visuals, be it social media graphics, presentations, posters or other visual content. By adding your corporate colours and a selection of custom designs you can easily create templates to use again and again.

This is incredibly empowering for small business owners who can create their own visuals more easily than ever before. However, without some initial training and guidance this can have detrimental consequences for their corporate identity if they are not adhering to brand guidelines.

We can assist by setting up your Canva account with your business assets and templates, keeping the integrity of your brand safely intact. We can educate your team on the set-up of all future template design requirements showing you how to get the very best from Canva while exhibiting your brand successfully.

For our client COASTAL HOLIDAYS, we updated their Canva account to ensure their social media posts are always on-brand, looking good and standing out. 

We included all of the following, ensuring that the client was confident, going forward, with all aspects of their digital marketing needs;

– brand colours
– brand fonts
– brand assets
– design templates
– training

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand

Shortsteps Coaching

Shortsteps

Shortsteps:

Case Study

Shortsteps are specialists in performance improvement training and coaching.

The intention of the rebrand was to target  corporate professionals more effectively. A new visual identity was required aswell as clarifying internal substance (purpose, mission, vision and values) and establishing a clear brand persona.

Case Study

The Outlaw persona

The Shortsteps brand justifiably includes elements of the Outlaw archetype, in that they challenge and disrupt the norm by questioning beliefs and conventions.

However, due to the corporate environment we decided to create an appearance that would not look out of place while allowing the disruptive element to express itself through the verbal aspect of the brand.

Positioning

Identifying the desired market position helps inform the visual style.

Logo design

With the brand name ‘Shortsteps’, our intention, was to avoid the obvious and appeal to the appropriate audience.

Logo design

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Visual System

A visual system maintains  consistency for all branding and marketing materials.

This includes use of colour, fonts and style imagery/photography.

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Coaching

Personality

Mind control

Dream interpretation

Opportunities

Taking action

What the client said...

Managing director Chris Cortopassi of Short Steps Ltd: 

Working with Mario was hard work but in a good way!
 
He really helps you to dig down and get to the root of what your business is about, what your core values and messaging is and what your ideal customers need to see and hear from you.
 
I needed to rebrand as I was growing my business from 121 model to serving businesses. Mario was referred to me by others in the industry I respected and trust. He worked tirelessly, even when I would get frustrated, to get the best outcome for me, based on my desired goals and constraints.

Case Study

The benefit was a much clearer understanding of who I was, how I could best represent myself and how to make myself attractive to potential clients.
 
New branding is slick, powerful and lines up really nicely now with other businesses operating in my space…..on many cases, IMHO, much better!
 
He is easy going, spiritually motivated and supportive, definitely recommend working with him.

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand

EES Solutions: Data

EES Data Solutions

EES Data Solutions

Brochure content and design

We worked with the team at EES to develop written content, diagrams and a visual style for a new and complex Data Solutions service.

The challenge was to interpret a detailed technical process into a simplified visual information that will appeal to potential clients.

The solution establishes a visual system that goes on to inform similar future projects.

Case Study

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand

Coastal Holidays

Coastal Holidays:
humanising holiday lettings

Coastal Holidays:
humanising holiday lettings

Case Study

Coastal Holidays are specialists in providing Coastal cottages in Anglesey, North Wales & Snowdonia for all tastes and budgets.

Having just taken over the company the directors wanted to update their presentation. Their objective was to offer a bespoke service in comparison to the generic holiday rental services online. Having a thorough knowledge of the local area, they were keen to provide a more personal experience.

Case Study

We used organic shapes and typography to emphasise a friendly look and feel. The visual identity reflects the ethos that carries through all aspects of the service Coastal Holidays provide.

Positioning

Identifying the desired market position helps inform the visual style

Competitors

Competitors were mostly more generic online services. Identifying the value of a personal experience was an important part of establishing a position.

Logo design

Creating a memorable logomark is the first a step towards an identity that will reflect the brand values.

Logo design

Focusing on the key values and separating out all the visual ideas before finding an interesting way to combine them.

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Visual System

A visual system follows to create a uniform the style for all marketing and advertising materials.

What the client said...

Managing director David Lilley of Coastal Holidays: 

I needed help re-branded my business’s identity and through conversations, we had thought that he could assist me. Mario came across as very personable and professional, so he managed to build trust with me quite quickly. 
 

Mario created a strong brand identity, which I believe jumps off the page far more than it ever could on the old platform. 

The process also taught me a lot on how to sell to my customers and Mario gave me much more of an insight from the customer’s standpoint when looking at my brand.

How can we help you?

Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment
where we can give you some insights into your brand
Click the link below to arrange a 30 minute appointment where we can give you some insights into your brand