How to Prepare for your Logo Design
Updated: Sep 8, 2022
Please read before we start working together.
Congratulations on starting your new business! I'm so happy you are here and starting something you are passionate about.
A logo and brand is an investment into your business. Before we start your logo design, let's just make sure we have a couple boxes checked off. This is going to make the logo & visual identity process so much easier & efficient.
(1) Brainstorm Name Ideas
This sounds simple but there's actually a lot more to it. Start brainstorming ideas for your business. Think about how customers will find you and if your name is memorable. A good idea is to avoid any weird spelling (if possible!) and to make sure your name is not too similar to any industry competitors.
Once you have some names in mind - I recommend trying them out amongst your family and friends to get their initial ideas and feelings. Workshopping with an audience is always a good idea, but there are some risks! People rarely agree on anything and a group of people will always find consensus with a very bland name. Approach a variety of people you trust and who understand you and your business. Take their ideas with a grain of salt - see if your name raises any concerns or red flags with them.
Make sure you give yourself options and keep in mind your top 2 or 3 favourite.
(2) Check into a Domain Name
A domain name is your website address name. Run a search to see if your name is available as a .com name. I recommend heading here and plugging the domain you want into the grey search box to see if it's available.
Understand your .com name might not be available. You might have to see if there are other ending options you can use (.ca, .org, etc) or edit your domain name slightly with your location or a describing word.
(3) Trademarks
It is very important that you make sure competitors or other businesses are not using a similar name in your industry and country. If other businesses in your industry are using the same name, you’ll be exposed to possible trademark litigation, and you’ll most likely be unable to obtain trademark protection for your company name if you decide to go that route.
We strongly suggest talking to a lawyer if you have questions or concerns regarding trademarking your business name or the implications of someone else trademarking your name.
(4) Conduct a Name Search & Register Your Name & Business
Once you have finalized a business name, you will want to register it with your provincial (or state) governing body. You pay to have a name search conducted and once it is confirmed available there is usually a fee to register the business name.
At this time, you will also have to define your business structure (in Canada this is a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation). Speak to your lawyer and/or accountant about what structure is right for your business.
(5) Secure Your Name Online
After you have finalized and registered your name, we recommend buying your domain name at GoDaddy.com, and securing your social media handles on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and/or TikTok if you choose.
This is a super helpful website to be able to see if your brand name is available on a variety of social media platforms: https://brandsnag.com/
(6) Start Thinking about your Brand
Your brand must come before your logo. Some business owners think once they see the perfect logo their brand will fall into place. However, from a design perspective that reasoning is completely backwards. In order to design an effective logo, I need information about your brand, who you are, who you serve and what makes you different.
Start building a Pinterest moodboard with images that resonate with you - include colours, imagery, fonts, decor, and photos you like. Think about the audience you are going to serve and how you are going to stand out.
Once you have your name finalized and an idea of your brand direction, I have all the pieces I need to build you a memorable brand logo & visual identity.
Disclaimer: Information provided is FOR REFERENCE ONLY. Please consult with a lawyer or accountant to determine your specific needs when it comes to the legal and financial aspects of your business.