How to Build a Brand Identity from Scratch (Without the Overwhelm)
So, you’ve got a brilliant business idea (maybe even a few clients under your belt), and now you’re ready to make things official. But how do you turn a blank Canva file (and a million Pinterest pins) into a brand that looks, feels, and works like you?
Deep breath, darling, we’ve got you.
At BB Creative Co., we believe your brand should be more than just visually appealing. It should be purposeful. So here’s our step-by-step guide to building a brand identity from scratch without losing sleep (or your sanity).
1. Start with the Soul: Your Brand Foundations
Before colours and logos come into play, you need to know who your brand is.
What do you do?
Who are you here to help?
What do you want to be known for?
This is your brand’s story. It's the heart and reason for existing. It’s also the compass that will guide every design decision you make.
Hot tip: Write a one-sentence mission statement. If you’re stuck, try: “I help [your people] do/feel/get [your impact] through [your offering].”
2. Define Your Brand Personality
Is your brand fun and flirty? Bold and rebellious? Calm and nurturing?
Your personality shows up in your words, visuals, and even your packaging. Think of it like your business’s vibe. It helps people decide if you’re their kind of brand.
BB Co. clients love choosing 3–5 brand traits that guide their voice and visuals (ours are creative, honest, collaborative, and committed!).
3. Choose Your Visual Vibe
Here comes the fun part: turning those foundations into a look.
You’ll want to define:
Colour palette – choose 3–5 colours that feel like your brand
Typography – pick 2–3 fonts (we like mixing a standout heading with an easy-to-read body font)
Logo – invest in a primary logo, an alternate version, and a submark
Imagery – think: mood boards, photography style, and social media graphics
Pro tip: Keep your visual identity consistent across all platforms, from your Instagram grid to your invoices.
4. Create Your Brand Style Guide
Now that you’ve nailed the visuals, document them!
A brand style guide is your bestie when it comes to staying consistent (and making sure future-you doesn’t have to guess which pink you used last time).
Include your logo files, colour codes, fonts, image references, and tone of voice guidelines. It’s the playbook for your brand.
5. Bring It All Together Across Touchpoints
Now that your brand has an identity, it’s time to bring it to life.
This means updating:
Your website
Social media profiles
Email signatures
Packaging and printed materials
Client documents and templates
Every little detail matters! It’s what makes your brand feel like a brand, not a side hustle.
6. Need a Hand? That’s Our Thing
If all this still feels like a lot (because, let’s be honest, it is), you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re just getting started or giving your brand a much-needed refresh, BB Creative Co. is here to take the overwhelm off your plate.
We’ll help you build a brand that turns heads, sparks connections, and feels so you.
Let’s bring your brand to life 💌
Book a discovery call to get started.