Branding: One Look, Many Functions

My favorite event planner in Philly, Randi of Always Fabulous Events (see photo ---> Randi on the left, Mattie on the right), and I finally met for lunch today to 'catch up on things'. Once we got past the pleasantries, we got down to discussing business.

Today's topic? Branding with business cards, brochures and postcards.

We didn't discuss how people distribute these (ie: networking, seminars, mass mailings, etc), instead, we discussed the vision, the impression of a business' core advertising.

We realize that there are business card sites which offer "free" cards, for just the cost of s&h.

We also realize that these aren't the most professional cards to order.

Why?
1. The back of the card lists the printer's name.
Sorry. I thought the business card was for your business. Simply upgrading your account will enable you to use that space to post your office hours, a calendar or even a discount code. Don't advertise the publishing company for free. They certainly aren't returning the favor!

2. A gazillion other businesses use the same template.
Well, we can certainly speak to being at functions, exchanging business cards and having several which have the same design. The commonality? They're all free cards from the same company!

3. The business cards, brochures and postcards have various designs.
What is seen on one, must be seen on the others. It's confusing if your business card has a flower, the brochure headlines with a scroll and the postcard features a setting sun.

Make.Up.Your.Mind!

Commit to one theme across the board. If not, you're not creating a brand, you're creating confusion.

4. Misspells & grammar errors. 1 word. 2 syllables. SPELLCHECK! And as a backup to that, read everything out loud. If you're still getting that "Huh?" feeling, call a friend & ask her to proof it for you. Once again...if it doesn't sound right to you, don't expect it to sound right to anyone else.

5. DO NOT PRINT YOUR OWN CARDS! Can we say that enough times? Unless you are a professional with professional software, a professional printer, great card stock and the ability to cut cards - DON'T DO IT!

Perforated edges.
Poor ink contact.
Crooked cutting.
Cheap paper.

Get the drift?

Now, there are a few websites that produce quality documents and will not eat into your budget. You can either use a template, upload your own design, or even have them create one for you (but that will cost ya!).

Overnight Prints
Premium Cards
BizCard

Remember...quality trumps quantity every time!