When Type is Tricky

All of us write the “stuff” that others have to read.  We write blogs, business letter, invitations and announcements, all with the underlying optimism that our communication will be clear and free of distractions.

Today I just happened upon this handy article that provided a humorous look at 34 Typographic Sins.  They are simple, direct and effective reminders of what makes good copy. Enjoy!

.
Sample of the article

Download the poster with all 34 Typographic Sins

Here Are 10 Steps To Get That Perfect Logo

Today we’re keeping it short and sweet.  Often I’m asked to help develop a visual identity for a company.  A good logo is they key to getting that instant visual recognition that is so critical in the branding process.  So, today I’m giving you the basic rules I use when I’m designing a logo.

.

.

.

10 Rules I use When Designing a Logo

1. Three Colors Max
   Any more than three colors becomes too cluttered.  Make it easy on the eye.
2. Keep it Simple
   The whole point of a logo is to have that instant identity.  Your audience should be able to identify your logo in a fraction of a second.  If it takes longer than that…consider simplifying.
3. Create an Unforgettable Shape
   It’s a good idea to incorporate some type of shape in your identity so you have options.  There are many cases where you don’t need to use a whole logo.  If you have this shape built in, it opens up options.  (Just think McDonalds and the Golden Arches…’nuff said!)
4. Be Timeless
   Avoid trends and create a logo that stands the test of time.  The last thing you want is to have a logo that looks like it came straight out of the 90’s.  Don’t get me wrong, I did some of my best work in the 90’s, but you don’t want your company branded to a particular decade.  However if you are Billy Bobb’s Hippy Bar-B-Que…then you’re allowed to use a combination of cowboy boots and bell bottom fonts.
5. Look Good in Black and White
   Make sure your logo looks as good in black and white as it does in color.  There are many times you’ll need to reproduce your logo without its color palette.  Make sure the integrity of your logo can stand on its own without a bright red or a sea blue.
6. Avoid Special Effects
   You don’t need to use special effects to be special.  Avoid drop shadows and gradients in your logos.  Why? Because they don’t print well in all environments (web, print, avatars, billboards, etc…).
7. A Photo Is Not a Logo
   Do not use a photo as your logo.  They are 2 very different animals.  For that matter I wouldn’t even use a photo as an element in your logo.  You want a logo that is re-sizable and photographs rarely are.  And photographs generally break the 3 color rule.
8. Go Solid
   The letters of your logo and the shape of your logo should be a solid color.  Often people want to use an outline of a font or include a pattern in their font.  Outline fonts lack impact and patterns create clutter.  These should be avoided.
9. Be Intuitive
   It should be easy to describe your logo.  The whole point of a logo is to be the visual identity of your company.  If you have to take too much time to describe what your logo is about, it’s not intuitive to your audience.
10. Don’t Include the Kitchen Sink
    Avoid too many details.  Keep it simple.  A good logo creates interest.  A good logo gives your audience just enough information to want to go one step further.  Logos aren’t intended to deliver the final sale.

5 Ways to Make Your Brochure Great

Sometimes your print collateral can make or break a sale. If your customers are interested in your business or your products, they make look to your brochure to find out the information they need to make a final decision. Failure to present this information and present it in a professional way can mean the loss of a sale that might have made all the difference in your bottom line.

However, effective brochure design is not something that is taught in business school. In fact, it isn’t really taught anywhere. Business owners are expected to simply know what makes a good design, which is simply impossible. If you find yourself a little lost when it comes to this critical area, here are a few tips to get you started.

1.  Start with a basic layout.

This can be created either using a template or from designing a custom one with a designer, preferably the one who designed your logo design and knows your company brand. This layout will have places designated for your company name, contact information, logo design, and product information. You may also want space for a small amount of company history and client testimonials, depending on the amount of space you have.

2.  Use graphics and colors consistent with your brand.

These will help to build a brand that potential customers can use to identify your company. If your brand experience is consistent, many of your customers will return and continue to do so simply because they know exactly what to expect.

3.  Organize information with headings.

These will be slightly larger and bolder than the rest of your information and may even be in a different color. The headings should attract attention, convey basic facts, and make customers want to read more about your company.

4.  Be a professional.

Use the very best grammar and spelling you can muster and double check for errors; in fact, have two or three friends proofread for you. In addition, you will want to use language that attracts customers, with key words such as: new, guarantee, proven, and others.

5.  Use high quality ingredients where needed.

There are times when a cheap printing job on bargain paper will be enough, but most brochures will need more. In general, the quality of paper and printing that you choose should be congruent with the market you are trying to reach. If you are dealing with middle class clients, a mid grade quality is okay; if you are talking to wealthier clients, then a high quality paper and the best printing techniques will be necessary.

Following these rules will make it easier for you to design the best logo that you can.

Let RAVE Graphic Design can help you with this process.  The most important thing is that you end up with a brochure that can represent your business well and sells you effectively to interested customers and members of your community.

Christmas comes but once a year…so do it up right!

When you send Christmas Cards out this holiday season, remember that like everything else there is a right way and a not so right way of going about it.

.

1.  “What card should I pick?”

You want to send a card that “fits.”  For most people a nice looking card that you like will be perfect.  If you’re worried about offending people from different religious or ethnic backgrounds, you’ll want to find a card that doesn’t contain any religious or ethnic tones.  REMEMBER…keep your recipient in mind when you’re choosing the right card!

2.  “Who should I send a Christmas Card to?”

You should send Christmas Cards to everyone you can think of.  Christmas Cards are a easy, heart felt way of connecting with family, friends, neighbors, business prospects…really anyone.  Sending a Christmas Card is a way of keeping that connection alive with people that you don’t see often but still care about.  I can’t think of anyone who doesn’t enjoy getting a Christmas Card.

3.  “What should I write?”

It’s important to make your Christmas Card personal, but also remember that you’re writing a not…not a long letter.  It’s not necessary to hand write your message, but make sure it says what you want your recipient hear.

4.  “Should I hand sign my cards?

I live in the camp of hand signing your cards.  I think it’s a quick and simple way to show that you care.  Your signature gives that personal touch that lets friends and family know that you put time and effort into their card and that you care about them.

5.  When should I send out my Christmas Cards?

If you’re on the ball you’d send them out as soon after Thanksgiving as possible that way it gives your recipients time to enjoy your card during the Christmas season.  It’s also fun to include a Christmas card in “goody baskets” that you deliver to your kids school teachers, your pastor, and others.  You definitely want your Christmas cards to reach their intended destinations before December 25.  The only way you can get around this rule is if you’ve just had a baby and you include those cute little baby pictures…only then will you still get the oooo’s and ahhhh’s:)  If you’re sending late…just give in and start your own tradition of sending out a “Valentine Card” and then everyone will think you’re way ahead of the ballgame!

Order Your Christmas Cards From RAVE

When is the latest date you’ve send out Christmas Cards?