Create a unique brand - How to use mood boards to your advantage
In his book called The Brand Gap, Marty Neumeier says "A brand is not a logo. A brand is not an identity. A brand is not a product.” [..] “a brand is a person’s gut feeling about a product, service, or organization.”
If you are here, it means that you are taking the steps to create a brand that stands out. A brand that doesn't look like everyone else out there. A brand that is standing for something.
You want your customers to see you can offer more because you care. You want them to feel they can trust you. After all, you are standing shoulder to shoulder with them and not Joe, who is the cheapest option out there.
A mood board can help! But how can a mood board help you create a unique brand? Well, you probably know that first impressions matter and that you can create a memorable first impression by putting some thought, and effort into it.
You know your brand more than anyone else. You know the values you can give, and a mood board can help you create that first impression you want them to feel, even before they start talking to you.
What is a mood board?
A mood board, be digital or physical, is like a collage, a diverse collection of images, colors, fonts, and other elements that help you get a first glimpse at what your brand could look like. It is inspiration, affirmation, and guidance in communication. It helps to convert feelings and words into a visual language that everyone can understand.
Why a mood board is important and what it can be used for?
A mood board can help you hatch out ideas before jumping on a lengthy design process, just to find out that was not the right direction. You can easily visualize the style of your ideal clients, next to the colors and fonts you plan on using in your branding efforts. Additionally, it ensures clear communication and easy collaboration between you and your team of designers.
How to use mood boards to your advantage in branding?
First, narrow down your focus. Think about your favorite customers. What qualities do they share? What motivates them? What pain points do they have that you can help them solve?
Second, think about your values. What values do you stand for? How do you want your customers to feel when they engage with you? What impact can you make on their lives?
Jot down everything you can think of!
Now, start collecting images, textures, patterns, colors, and fonts that represent these. Once you have a good amount of assets, start playing around with them until you are satisfied with the look and feel.
Mood board resources:
Adobe Sparks - "Make unique and custom mood boards in minutes. No design skills are needed."
Canva - "Evoke the right mood and convey your ideas clearly with a beautiful mood board."
Milanote - "Milanote lets you create a beautiful, shareable mood board in minutes."
Creative Market - "Accelerate your projects with millions of ready-to-use products"
Additional articles I recommend to read on this topic:
Did you find it helpful? What questions do you have? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
