| We all know about big business and their national | | | | bold, energetic colors or graphics to support the |
| logos and branding. But how can a logo help Your | | | | mood of your business. |
| small business? Here are three things to consider | | | | 3. Does it print well? |
| when designing your own logo. | | | | So you have a logo idea and used your personal |
| First let's look at exactly what a logo is. The | | | | computer to make one. Just because it looks good |
| dictionary says:loogo - a design used by an | | | | on your own printer at home does not mean it will |
| organization on its letterhead, advertising material, and | | | | look the same when professionally copied or printed. |
| signs as an emblem by which the organization can | | | | Keep in mind that not all programs on a home |
| easily be recognized. A symbol, sign, emblem, badge, | | | | computer are compatible with the equipment at your |
| or insignia. | | | | local printing place or copy center. Unless they |
| Here's what's important: | | | | designed it for you, be prepared to make some color |
| 1. First impression. | | | | and/or font changes. Especially when having a banner |
| Whether it is a business card, fax sheet or brochure | | | | made. Your lettering on your business card can look |
| given to potential client, you want your first | | | | totally different and in proportionate when enlarged. |
| impression to be perceived as professional as | | | | The same is true for downsizing your logo. It could |
| possible. A logo will do just that. But make sure your | | | | look great on a regular sheet of paper but when it's |
| logo has clean lines and/or graphics. Too many words, | | | | reduced in size, for example, your business card. It is |
| pictures, and/or colors can make a logo too busy. A | | | | critical clients are able to read the text. Keep the |
| logo can say a lot to a potential client about how you | | | | fancy pictures out. |
| do business. If your logo is complicated or 'messy', | | | | Also consider how your logo will look if screen printed |
| they could assume that is the way you do business | | | | or embroidered for company shirts or uniforms. If a |
| as well. | | | | logo has a lot of shading, fade outs, or light colored |
| 2. Pick the right colors. | | | | graphics, it will look totally different on a shirt or |
| Make sure the colors of your logo compliment your | | | | jacket. |
| business. For example; if you are a therapist who | | | | Having a small business logo will make you and your |
| specializes in helping others with stressful situations, | | | | business look more professional. Professionalism goes |
| you don't want your logo to have bright or neon | | | | hand in hand with your businesses success. So keep |
| colors. Your logo should reflect colors that stimulate | | | | in mind these tips when considering the right looking |
| peace and tranquility such as earth tones or pastels. | | | | logo. By planning ahead, you will save headaches and |
| Just the same is true for, let's say, if you are a | | | | disappointments when designing the right logo for |
| personal trainer or fitness instructor. You would want | | | | you. |