So You’re Launching a Brand... Where Do You Even Start? (Our Exact Formula)
There’s nothing more exciting than launching your brand.
There’s also nothing more overwhelming. One minute you’re dreaming in color palettes, the next you’re spiraling over domain names and wondering if you really need a mission statement.
So, let’s make this simple.
If you're trying to build a brand that actually goes somewhere (and doesn’t just look good for a week on Instagram), here’s the checklist we swear by. I’m writing this blog in the same order I’d approach it. Quick note: this is a branding and marketing-forward checklist. It doesn’t cover legal or operational stuff like LLC formation or liability insurance ~ but those are super important too, and every industry has its own set of best practices. So do your research, and handle the paperwork side like the CEO you are.
Always Start with Strategy
Before we talk logos, we get clear on the why. Your strategy is the foundation. It’s what sets the tone for everything else. This is where we define:
What your brand stands for
Who you're talking to
How you want to be perceived
What makes you different
Think of this as your North Star. And just something to note here: a lot of brands tend to get really fluffy in this area. Context and details are so important, but fluff just makes you get lost in the noise. Be clear and direct in your strategy. I’d prefer to see a one-page spreadsheet with exact data and plans, rather than a 10-page beautifully designed deck with fluff and no clear direction for this. Period.
Build the Brand
Once we know what you’re about, we give it a look and feel that’s unmistakably you. This is where the visuals come to life. Think:
Logo + submarks
Type, color, image direction
Brand guide so everything stays on point
One of the biggest pitfalls I see? New brands rushing straight to a logo before doing any real strategy work. I get it: you're excited and want something tangible ASAP. But without a clear foundation, that “perfect” logo can feel totally off nine months down the line… when your offer has evolved, your audience has shifted and your brand no longer reflects where you’re headed. I repeat: always start with strategy. It doesn’t have to be complicated, and it doesn’t even have to be done with an agency (though we love helping with it). But it does need to be clear ~ and shared with your designer before any visuals are created. That’s how you build a brand that actually lasts.
Design the Site
Your website is your best sales tool. It should be beautiful, yes, but also strategic, intuitive and ready to convert. Here’s what we make sure it does:
Tells your story clearly
Shows off your services or products
Guides people toward action (with zero friction)
Looks great on mobile because, duh
Keep the Momentum
You’ve launched. You’re live. You’re feeling yourself. Now what? We offer ongoing marketing support to help you grow without losing steam… or your spark. Because staying aligned is just as important as starting strong. Think:
Fractional creative direction
Retainers and campaign work (email, social, influencers, business cards, merch, you name it)
Strategy check-ins when you need them
