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LO1: Demonstrate a systematic understanding of your chosen subject area, through sustained investigation and critical analysis of a diverse range of information

LO2: Formulate a concept that establishes creative thought, innovation and practical ability, within the industrial scenario

LO3: Articulate ideas cogently, recognising opportunities and limitations within the context of a creative or industrial scenario

LO4: Manage own learning process by diagnosing and resolving issues, demonstrating independence, time management and personal initiative within the production of professional outcomes

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@aldstudiosuk cover banner for Facebook and Instagram pages (both @aldstudiosuk)

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ALD Studios UK is my current freelancing side hustle that I want to continue with after graduation. Since I am entirely self-taught at running a business and have no investors, support or business know-how, I have had to learn as I go. This also means that the company is not at the level I want it to be at, so rebranding it and working on my professional identity for my Honours project is a good fit.

In essence, with aldstudiosuk, I've been offering branding and logo creation, content shoots (with both photography and videography) and social media management services for clients across the UK, and more recently broke into the American and Canadian markets with two clients in the USA, and one in Canada.

My mission is a little unclear, as I've never really thought of it, but I knew at the start I wanted to work with small up-and-coming businesses to help them get their brands off the ground with the power of social media and branding instead of seeing more and more people use Canva logo templates that look the same as everyone else.

The objective of the rebrand is to target a new audience, mainly to cater to more of a national audience across the United Kingdom, but also to prepare the business to work with more clients overseas. Additionally, in order to do this,
we need to expand global reach, target specific areas, and bring the brand into the future to be more cohesive and future-proof.

_________________________-

Mission statement (draft)

ALD Studios UK provides modern branding solutions designed to empower the next generation of small businesses and entrepreneurs to stand out against a sea of competitors with the same design templates, through tailored and sustainable design

in the rebrand i want to really push on the idea that my services will help businesses to stand on their own two feet and stand out in their industry without blending in with everyone else using the same limited logo templates on generic design tools and software like canva that do absolutely nothing to help them build credibility as a business.

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Current follower count: 1,138 followers (as of 7/12/24)

At the moment, Instagram is my preferred platform to use, but this is mostly to engage with other creators and post my work.

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https://www.facebook.com/aldstudiosuk

Current follower count: 174 followers

Facebook is my least used platform in terms of posting on my actual page, but I use this to find client projects and attract leads via direct messages on Facebook Messenger, and post to organically advertise my work on Groups - which is how I have found the majority of my client work to date - a combination of this and from word of mouth from client's I've worked with before.

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https://www.tiktok.com/@amyaldstudiosuk

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HOW CAN REBRANDING HELP ALDSTUDIOSUK ALIGN WITH MODERN CONSUMER DEMANDS IN A CREATIVE INDUSTRY WITHOUT LOSING ITS CORE VALUES?

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HOW CAN REBRANDING HELP ALDSTUDIOSUK ALIGN WITH MODERN CONSUMER DEMANDS IN A CREATIVE INDUSTRY WITHOUT LOSING ITS CORE VALUES?

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digital-first strategy

personalise customer experience

refresh brand identity to one that is more contemporary

keep in touch with values of authenticity and creativity

need to stay relevant to new markets and consumer desires without losing those values (this is key!)

storytelling, innovation and modernise design approaches

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Why Rebranding Your Business is Essential for Growth

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Rebranding is more than just changing a logo; it’s about revitalizing your company’s identity to align with current market trends, customer expectations, and your evolving business goals. Here’s why it’s crucial to consider a rebrand and how it can benefit your business: 1.

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Branding trends in my industry

sustainability and ethics - transparency is key, and consumers are becoming more demanding of sustainable design

digital-first approaches - modern brands want a highly engaged online presence, so social media marketing is key, and so is e-commerce with online stores becoming more used than brick-and-mortar shops following cost of living, high rents inflation, etc...

personalisation - to keep up with the ever-changing industry, using AI to leverage consumer data (gathered, stored and used legally and ethically!) will enable brands to create more tailored approaches to each customer, promoting retention and loyalty in the long term.

Keep it simple and clean - minimalistic and straight to the point will resonate with consumers and increase the authenticity of brands, increasing chances of repeat custom, engagement and loyalty.

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The world of branding design is always changing. Stay ahead of the curve with the latest and greatest 2024 branding design trends.

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More businesses are making shifts to personal brands where founders are becoming the faces of the brand

sustainable and ethical design is becoming more of a priority with things like eco-conscious materials, minimalism and recyclability being highly favoured

metamodernism is bringing nostalgia, humour, and genuine emotion in design

AI is being used more in design, and motion graphics

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In today's digital age, the power of artificial intelligence has revolutionized various industries, including graphic design. One of the most exciting developments in this field is the emergence of AI logo makers, which offer a quick and efficient way to create professional logos. This article will explore how you can use AI to create logos, the benefits of AI-powered logo generators, and the best tools available to help you craft the perfect logo for your brand.

What is an AI logo generator and how does it work? Understanding the basics of AI-powered logo design

An AI logo generator is an innovative tool that uses artificial intelligence to create logos instantly. These AI-powered logo makers leverage machine learning algorithms and vast databases of design elements to generate unique and visually appealing logos. By analyzing trends, color theory, and design principles, AI logo generators can create stunning logos that align with your brand identity and industry standards.

Key features of AI logo makers

AI logo makers offer a wide range of features to help you create a professional logo. These tools typically provide access to an extensive library of templates, fonts, and design elements. Users can customize layouts, colors, and formats to suit their preferences. Many AI logo generators also offer a free version with basic features, allowing you to experiment with logo ideas before committing to a paid plan.

How artificial intelligence enhances the logo creation process

Artificial intelligence significantly streamlines the logo creation process by automating many design tasks. AI-powered logo generators can instantly create multiple logo options based on your input, saving time and effort compared to traditional logo design methods. These tools use generative AI to produce unique combinations of design elements, ensuring that each logo is tailored to your specific requirements.

Comparing features of free AI logo generators

When evaluating free AI logo generators, it's essential to compare their features to find the best tool for your needs. Some key factors to consider include the variety of templates available, customization options, and the ability to generate multiple logo ideas. Many free AI logo makers also offer additional features such as social media kit generation and the option to create a professional logo package for a fee.

Limitations of free AI logo tools

While free AI logo generators can be an excellent starting point, they do have some limitations. These tools may offer fewer customization options compared to paid versions, and the resulting logos may not be as unique as those created by professional designers. Additionally, free AI logo makers may include watermarks or require payment for high-resolution downloads, which can be a drawback for businesses looking for a polished, professional logo.

How can I create a professional logo using AI? Step-by-step guide to using an AI logo maker

Creating a professional logo using AI is a straightforward process. Start by selecting an AI logo generator that suits your needs. Enter your company name and industry, then choose your preferred design style and color palette. The AI tool will generate multiple logo options based on your input. Review the generated logos and select your favorite design. Finally, customize the chosen logo by adjusting colors, fonts, and layout to perfectly align with your brand identity.

Tips for customizing your AI-generated logo

To create a truly unique and professional logo, it's important to customize the AI-generated design. Experiment with different font combinations to find the perfect typography for your brand. Adjust the color scheme to reflect your company's personality and values. Consider the scalability of your logo design, ensuring it looks great in various formats and sizes. Don't be afraid to iterate and refine your logo until you achieve the desired result.

Incorporating your brand identity into AI-created logos

While AI logo makers can generate impressive designs, it's crucial to infuse your brand identity into the final product. Consider your company's mission, values, and target audience when selecting and customizing your logo. Use colors and imagery that resonate with your brand personality. Ensure that the logo aligns with your existing marketing materials and overall brand aesthetic. By carefully incorporating your brand identity, you can create a logo that truly represents your business.

What are the advantages of using AI to generate logos? Time and cost savings compared to traditional logo design

One of the most significant advantages of using AI to create logos is the time and cost savings. Traditional logo design processes can be time-consuming and expensive, often requiring multiple revisions and consultations with graphic designers. AI logo generators can instantly create multiple logo options, allowing you to explore various designs quickly. This efficiency translates to cost savings, making professional logo design accessible to businesses of all sizes.

Access to a wide range of design options

AI logo makers provide access to an extensive library of design elements, templates, and fonts. This vast selection allows you to explore numerous logo ideas and styles without the limitations of a single designer's perspective. The ability to generate multiple logo options instantly enables you to compare and refine your choices, ultimately leading to a more satisfying final design.

Consistency and scalability in logo creation

AI-powered logo generators excel in producing consistent and scalable designs. These tools ensure that your logo looks great across various applications, from business cards to billboards. The ability to easily adjust colors, fonts, and layouts allows for seamless brand consistency across different marketing materials. This scalability is particularly valuable for businesses looking to maintain a cohesive visual identity across multiple platforms and formats.

Are there any limitations to AI logo generators? Potential drawbacks of AI-generated logos

While AI logo makers offer numerous benefits, they do have some limitations. AI-generated logos may lack the nuanced creativity and emotional connection that a human designer can bring to a project. There's also a risk of creating logos that feel generic or lack originality, especially if the AI tool relies heavily on existing templates. Additionally, AI logo generators may struggle with highly specific or complex design requirements that require a deep understanding of a brand's unique needs.

When to choose human designers over AI tools

In certain situations, it may be preferable to work with a human designer rather than relying solely on AI logo generators. Complex branding projects that require a deep understanding of a company's values, target audience, and market positioning may benefit from a human designer's insight. Businesses seeking a highly unique or conceptual logo design may also find that human creativity surpasses AI-generated options. Additionally, companies with specific cultural or regional design requirements may need the nuanced approach of a human designer.

Balancing AI assistance with human creativity

The most effective approach to logo design often involves a balance between AI assistance and human creativity. Consider using AI logo generators as a starting point to explore design ideas and concepts. Then, leverage human creativity to refine and customize the chosen design, ensuring it perfectly aligns with your brand identity. This hybrid approach combines the efficiency of AI with the nuanced understanding and creative touch of human designers, resulting in a logo that is both professional and uniquely tailored to your business.

How do AI logo makers compare to traditional logo design services? AI logo generators vs. professional graphic designers

When comparing AI logo makers to professional graphic designers, there are several factors to consider. AI tools offer speed, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to generate multiple options quickly. Professional designers, on the other hand, bring creativity, experience, and a deep understanding of design principles to the table. While AI logo generators can produce impressive results, they may lack the personal touch and strategic thinking that human designers offer. The choice between AI and human designers often depends on the specific needs and budget of the business.

Cost comparison: AI tools vs. design agencies

One of the most significant advantages of AI logo makers is their cost-effectiveness. Many AI tools offer free versions or affordable pricing plans, making them accessible to startups and small businesses. Design agencies and professional graphic designers typically charge higher fees for their services, reflecting the time, expertise, and personalized attention they provide. However, the investment in a professional designer may be worthwhile for businesses seeking a highly customized and strategic approach to their brand identity.

Quality and uniqueness considerations

When it comes to quality and uniqueness, both AI logo makers and human designers have their strengths. AI-powered tools can produce high-quality logos that adhere to design principles and current trends. However, human designers may have an edge in creating truly unique and conceptual logos that stand out from the competition. The level of customization and attention to detail provided by professional designers can result in a more tailored and distinctive logo that perfectly captures a brand's essence.

What are some frequently asked questions about AI logo generators? Can I trademark an AI-generated logo?

Yes, you can typically trademark an AI-generated logo, provided it meets the necessary legal requirements for trademark registration. However, it's essential to ensure that the logo is unique and not too similar to existing trademarked designs. Some AI logo makers offer exclusive rights to the generated logos, while others may create similar designs for multiple users. It's advisable to consult with a legal professional to ensure your AI-generated logo can be successfully trademarked.

How to ensure my AI-created logo is unique?

To ensure your AI-created logo is unique, start by thoroughly customizing the generated design. Adjust colors, fonts, and layouts to make the logo distinctly your own. Combine multiple design elements or incorporate custom imagery to add originality. It's also wise to conduct a thorough search of existing logos in your industry to avoid unintentional similarities. Some AI logo makers offer premium features that guarantee the uniqueness of your chosen design, which can provide additional peace of mind.

Are AI logo makers suitable for all types of businesses?

AI logo makers can be suitable for a wide range of businesses, particularly startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs looking for a quick and cost-effective branding solution. These tools are especially useful for companies with straightforward branding needs or those in the early stages of development. However, larger corporations, luxury brands, or businesses with complex branding requirements may benefit more from working with professional designers who can provide a more strategic and tailored approach to logo creation.

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Use AI to Create Logo! The Future of Branding is Here

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Want to use AI to create logo designs? Our innovative tool combines artificial intelligence with your creative input for stunning results. Get started today!

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Mojomox Fonts - 10 fun fonts for creative projects with a happy personality [2023, Mojomox Fonts]

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WHAT BRANDING TRENDS DOMINATE THE CURRENT MARKET?

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WHAT BRANDING TRENDS DOMINATE THE CURRENT MARKET?

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Personalisation - cater to customer preferences through brand experience, products and messaging that hits home with your target audience

Visual storytelling - high-quality visual assets like photography, illustration, and animation to create emotional connection and keep customers engaged

Sustainability - eco-conscious brands are highly sought after in modern markets; packaging, materials and production that also align with consumer values and promote loyalty

Authenticity - transparency, relatability, honesty to build trust - authenticity is key in 2024 / onwards

Tech-driven branding - AI and AR/VR to enhance branding strategy. Create immersive experiences and provide personalisation to the masses with the use of AI tools.

Maximalism and bold typography - bold and playful feel to design, eye-catching and stands out in a crowded market

Emotional and cultural connection - nostalgia, inclusive and diverse. Incorporating cultural moments or causes can make a brand more relatable; this is most effective when it directly relates to what the brand stands for or / social causes they support

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WHAT DESIGN / COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES ARE USED BY COMPETITORS IN THIS SPACE?

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WHAT DESIGN / COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES ARE USED BY COMPETITORS IN THIS SPACE?

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customer-first approach in products, marketing and communication

minimal design following the 'less is more' ethos

emphasising brand mission and values as the main focus of their identity to appeal to socially conscious consumers

interactive and immersive technologies

partner with influencers / engage with your community to foster loyalty through authentic and relatable content

storytelling that goes beyond product descriptions, pushing emotional connection and authenticity to build a strong connection with the audience, turning consumers into long-term repeat customers

spotlight eco-friendly products and practices

use advanced data analytics to back up branding decisions, making sure that strategies are backed by consumer insight and measurable indicators for success (KPIs)

Adaptable brand strategies to shift towards market trends or feedback - make sure you stay relevant in an ever-changing industry

humour and satire to connect with audiences adds a human touch, but make sure it is used appropriately and not constantly to avoid causing offence

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In a world that often bombards us with the message that more is better, the concept of less is more emerges as a powerful reminder that simplicity can be the key to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. The phrase, less is more, popularized by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, encapsulates the id

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WHAT INDUSTRIES AND PROFESSIONS ARE MOST ATTRACTED TO ALDSTUDIOSUK OFFERINGS?

Aestheticians and beauty practitioners

Real estate agent / interior designer/home renovator

dog dentist/dog groomer/ pet nutritionist

therapists and counsellors, pregnancy therapist

restaurants and food wagons

jewellery shops and boutiques

WHAT AESTHETIC OR BRANDING VALUES REASONATE MOST WITH THE TARGET AUDIENCE?

modern, elegant, clean

sophisticated, minimalist, high-end

playful, bright, polished, affectionate

calm, soothing and approachable

vibrant, creative, capture flavours cultures and uniqueness of food

luxurious, intricate, visually striking branding

VALUES

simplicity and elegance

authenticity and trust

playful and approachable

sustainable and eco conscious

personalisation

cultural connection

bold and distinctive

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When you were a kid, odds are this question cropped up on the playground: If you could have just one superpower, what would it be?

Like most kids, you probably went with one of the big hitters like flying, super speed, or incredible strength. Or my own preference, the ability to teleport anywhere at anytime. But as an e-commerce manager or business owner, there'd be nothing more valuable than the ability to read people's minds. Imagine having instant access to consumer insights that tell you exactly what your audience loves, hates, and everything in between.

Fortunately, there's easy ways to acquire and implement these consumer insights, and you don't need superpowers to do it. To get started, simply go through our nine expert tips on how to use consumer insights to improve your marketing strategy. First, though, let's get clear on what consumer insights are and how people have typically gathered that information in the past.

What are consumer insights?

Consumer insights are the interpretations of consumer behaviors that help businesses understand how their target audience thinks, feels, and engages with their brand. This information can come in many forms. For example, you could aggregate bunches of behavioral data from Google Analytics to find trends in demographics. Or you could learn how your ideal buyer persona feels about your niche by simply combing through competitors' reviews.

At the end of the day, any piece of information that gets you closer to understanding how your target audience feels about your brand or products is a consumer insight.
And these insights are invaluable for improving your marketing strategies.
Once you understand the kinds of things your audience loves, you can give them more of it. This leads to deeper engagement, stronger customer relationships, and higher conversions. But you might be wondering, "with everything I need to get done by yesterday, how would I even gather consumer insights in the first place?"

It's a great question, especially since that term has evolved with all the technical advancements developed over the past two decades. Before digital marketing tools were readily available for small-to mid-sized business owners, gathering consumer insights was fairly tedious. Common methodologies included:

Focus groups

One-on-one interviews

Telephone surveys

Paper comment cards

These strategies are still valuable for larger businesses with big marketing teams, but let's be honest: they're not ideal for the majority of e-commerce brands. They require too much time, attention, and resources that many business owners simply don't have. Fortunately, newer methods have popped up in recent years that allow you to gather and implement customer insights, including:

Social media interactions

Competitor analysis insights

In-depth behavioral data on your audience (with free tools like Google Analytics)

Plus, there's tons of automated tools with advanced functionality that allow you to gather consumer insights and make it easy to put what you learn into action. But if you still need a bit of help, don't worry. We're about to dive into nine tried and true techniques for using consumer insights to improve your marketing initiatives.

9 ways to use consumer insights to improve your marketing

Understanding your audience is important for increasing conversions and sales but only if you actually use the information you collect. We'll look at how you can apply user insights to improve your marketing efforts, but feel free to jump to the section that you find most valuable:

Social media is the perfect place to engage with your audience in real time. As a result, it's one of your best resources for finding and using consumer insights to improve your marketing efforts.

1. Bring your products to more targeted communities

When people comment on your brand, you can click on their profile to learn more about this type of customer. One thing to look out for is the communities that this person engages with. But the world of e-commerce moves fast, and it'd be prohibitively time-consuming to research your customers' social accounts manually.
That's where the right social listening tool steps onto the scene.
Social listening tools allow you to see where your target audience is hanging out online and what they're saying there. Once you figure out where your audience base is spending their time, you can bring your products directly to those groups. This gives you access to large communities full of warm leads.

Plus, many tools have also reached a point where they're practically "plug n' play." That means you don't need any technical skills or coding experience to operate them. Some popular social listening tools for gathering consumer insights include:

SparkToro: A new(ish) tool that helps you identify what types of content (blogs, podcasts, YouTube channels, etc.) your customer base consumes

Sprout Social: A social management platform with a suite of tools to help with your social media strategy and uncover audience trends

Mention: A freemium tool that helps you listen to the conversations your audience is having about your brand across social media channels

Bazaarvoice Social Publishing: An AI-driven solution to help you understand what social content your audience loves

Once you know where your audience is spending their time, leverage the opportunity to bring your products to them.

2. Build more attractive contests, offers, and lead magnets

As you're learning what your audience loves, you can transform that knowledge into useful contest prizes or lead magnets. This gives you a head start in creating the kind of content and offers that will attract your ideal audience.

One of the best examples of this comes from WizardPins, a manufacturer of custom pins, coins, keychains, and more. They started holding contests on social media and used an enamel pin worth about $10 as the prize. From that first contest, WizardPins generated over 700 followers.

What did this level of growth tell them? Their audience really engages with these pins as a free prize, providing WizardPins with a more affordable strategy for growth than conventional methods (such as paid ads). And the contest wasn't difficult to create. It looked like this:

Over the next 18 months, WizardPins held 40 contests and generated 30k followers. If you're doing the math, that's a growth of 30,000 followers for only $400. And it's all thanks to WizardPins' watchful attention to what their audience was engaging with.

3. Shift your messaging based on changing attitudes or beliefs

Consumers don't live in a vacuum, and their thoughts/attitudes change over time. Listen to the conversations happening on social media to keep up with your audience's attitudes toward your niche. Then adapt your messaging accordingly.

For example, according to Digimind, a U.S.-based liquor company had a line of Russian Vodka in their portfolio. But back in 2016, Russia was creating negative sentiments among North American users on social media because of their involvement with the presidential election. So they pivoted their message. They built a marketing campaign with the following slogan: "Made in America. But we would be happy to talk about our ties with Russia under oath."

And that shift paid off. As a result, they increased their share-of-voice by 5-10x. Had this liquor company neglected their consumer research, they would have missed out on that growth altogether.

Insights from competitor analysis

Consumer insights give you a huge edge over the competition. When you see how your audience reacts to your competitors, you can work to improve your product or make your offers more enticing.

4. Improve your products based on negative competitor reviews

If you listen, you'll learn a lot from consumers - even if they aren't your consumers (...yet 😉). Read your competitors' negative reviews to see where improvements could be made to your product.

For instance, here's a product for a build-it-yourself remote control car for kids by GAMZOO:

Right away, you can tell they have a BIG competitor: LEGO (a better-known kid's company in this niche). And if LEGO's marketing team wanted to get a competitive advantage, they could simply read through the negative reviews for this product to learn what their audience values. In this case, we see a trend among 2-, 3-, and 4-star reviews that this product is difficult to build. Even for the recommended age:

Negative reviews from competitors unveil pain points about your audience that you can use to improve your product line. With this information, LEGO can emphasize how their instructions are simple to follow, can be downloaded online, and encourage kids to learn autonomously. In fact, they've built an entire resource hub with instructional resources to fix a clear pain point felt by their (and their competitors') audience.

5. Learn from your competitors' content marketing and social strategies

Another great way to get consumer insights is to learn how your competitors are running their content marketing strategies. Read through blog posts, social posts, or sign up to your competitors' email lists. This will give you an idea of the types of content your competitors are using to successfully attract your target audience. Which is a bit like giving you a cheat sheet to a winning strategy. If it's working for them, after all, why couldn't it work for you?

When you've identified the types of content your competitors are publishing, begin creating similar (but better) content to improve your content marketing efforts.

One of the best examples of this in the real world is how companies compete for rankings on search engines like Google. Using a tool like Ahrefs or Similarweb, you can see what blog posts or web pages your competitors are ranking for. Then you can analyze the post's or page's structure to figure out how to improve on that content and steal their rankings.

So let's say you sold dog collars and wanted to see what kind of content your biggest competitor, Ruffwear, is putting out there. You could pop their domain into a tool like Similarweb to see tons of information, like traffic, volume, and position:

Now you know that Ruffwear ranks in the second position for the "dog booties" keyword. And you also know that this term has a volume of 9,460 people who search for that phrase per month.

Now, you can head to Google and find the article by typing in the keyword "dog booties" and locating your competitor in the results:

Then analyze that content to see how they're positioning this product and look for ways that you can make a better version of that page or post. And since you're not starting totally from scratch, you have a head start on creating more engaging content.

This is just one example of how you can spy on your competitors' content marketing strategies, though there are many others. The key is to learn what's working for your competitors, use that as your new baseline for content creation, and build something better than what's already out there.

6. Up your PPC game using your competitors' paid advertising strategies

While it can be difficult for businesses to determine the concrete value of a single blog post or page, paid advertising is more cut and dry. Finding a company that's spending money on targeted keywords or audience segments gives you a safe bet that this strategy is paying off. (After all, your competitors wouldn't be investing money into those long-term ads if it weren't profitable).

But the question remains, how can you tell which ads your competitors are running or which keywords they're paying for?

The good news is that some advertising platforms, like Facebook and Twitter, have become more transparent regarding who's paying for ad space on those channels. For example, Facebook created an Ad Library in 2019. This lets you type a keyword into the search bar and see which competitors are running related ads. You'll see:

How long the ad has been running

Which platforms it has been running on

The advertisement ID

The company running the ads just below

Pro Tip: The only way spying on your competitions' paid ad strategies pays off is if you can identify their most successful campaigns to create better ads for the same keywords. However, you don't have access to how well the ad performs, so what should you do?

In this case, a good option is to scroll through Facebook Ad Library results and look for active campaigns that have been running for several months. This is a good indication that the ad is bringing in more revenue than it's costing. Otherwise, your competitor likely would have turned the advertisement off.

Another option is to use an advanced tool like SpyFu or Semrush to check your competitors' SEO and PPC strategies. You'll see what keywords they're spending money on with paid ads, which platforms they're using, and whether or not the campaigns are still active.

Again, this will tell you that these topics/words are very relevant to your audience. Then, it's your job to analyze the advertisement, figure out why it's resonating with your audience, and build a more enticing ad. But since you're starting with a competitor's strategy, you'll skip a lot of the trial and error associated with PPC advertising.

Insights from your audience analysis

So far, we've covered how you can use consumer insights from social media and your competitors' marketing strategies. Now, let's turn our focus inward by looking at how to use consumer insights you gather from your audience.

7. Engage with your target audience in their own words

Many companies scroll through user reviews, social media feeds, and blog comments to understand how their audience thinks and feels about their brand. If you're working on a budget, you can do this manually by looking at reviews for your products. The cosmetic company Vichy, for example, could learn how people describe their facial cream by reading reviews. They'd see lots of terms repeatedly cropping up, like "light," "not heavy," and "silky."

Okay, great. But what do you do with that information once you have it?

Learn the exact phrases customers use to describe your brand. Then, you can reuse those phrases in your copywriting. It's like having access to a cheat sheet telling you how to connect with your audience. Returning to Vichy, they might read through the reviews above and create a landing page for their facial cream with the following headline:
"Silky smooth application for that light and bright feeling all day."
This level of personalization in copywriting has been proven to boost conversions. Spend some time reading through your user reviews and start a spreadsheet to note common words or phrases your customers use. It'll only take a few hours of your time, but it will be worth the higher conversion rates.

8. Ideate content based on engagement (and double down on your winners)

Pay special attention to which types of content are getting the most engagement. To be clear, the term "engagement" is vague, and it's measured differently across marketing channels or niche-specific KPIs.

Tracking website engagement, for example, might include measuring things like:

User sessions

Time on page

Bounce rates

Conversions from that page

But measuring engagement with social media would include other metrics, such as:

Email marketing and pay-per-click (PPC) marketing channels are no exceptions. Each will have a different measurement for engagement that you'll need to get clear on. Once you've defined those KPIs, you can isolate which platform you want to optimize. From there, look for trends among the posts that get the highest engagement rates based on how you calculate them.

The good news is that when you find something is working well, you can double down on that strategy. Dollar Shave Club did this when they created their first video back in 2012. The CEO paid $4,500 to have the video created, and it was initially used as an advertisement. The video went viral, meaning it wasn't just viewed in ad placements. Instead, the video was organically shared with millions of people, bringing in 12,000 orders for their product in the first two days.

Since then, they've created more videos that get lots of engagement, including the 2018 " Get Ready" and the 2019 " Dad Bod " campaigns. This blend of entertainment/advertising has led to Dollar Shave Club's $1 billion market value. It also serves as a great lesson to run with the types of content your consumers are engaging with the most.

9. Leverage your negative reviews to reduce churn

If you see a negative review about your brand, consider it a learning experience. Then, turn it into something positive. Identify what this unsatisfied customer was missing and see if you can fill the gap. In many cases, if one user is feeling a certain way about your products, others are, too.

You can do this manually or use tools designed to gather consumer insights based on your customer reviews. T2, for example, is an international tea manufacturer and distributor. They used Bazaarvoice to increase the number of user reviews they received. After analyzing what their customers were saying, a trend emerged: consumers were missing a type of tea that had been discontinued.
So they brought it back with massive success.
T2 was also able to gather this insight from user-generated content (UGC) in the form of reviews, testimonials, and customer photos from social media. Along with bringing their former product back, they incorporated more of this UGC into their marketing strategies. As a result, they saw a 75% increase in conversions from their Australian site, a 174% increase in conversions from their U.S. site, and a 77% percent increase in conversions from their European site. All websites saw a significant increase in sales.

If intrigued by this, you can see exactly how they did it by checking out their story here.

The easiest way to gather consumer insights

If you're running an e-commerce store, you're probably juggling a hundred different tasks while simultaneously putting out a thousand fires👏 every👏 single👏 day. It's a fast-paced market with an ever-growing amount of new strategies and competitors to keep up with. So how can you efficiently gather consumer insights and transform that information into action without totally burning yourself out?

One of the best solutions is incorporating more UGC into your marketing strategy. Here's why.

UGC is so much more than getting a fun image to share on Instagram. It's your audience showing and shouting to the world how they feel about your brand. This content can come in many shapes and sizes, such as:

Positive (and negative) reviews

Detailed testimonials

Five-star ratings

Social media posts

But regardless of what form your UGC comes in, it all gives you a deeper understanding of how your audience feels about your brand. And with the right tool, you can gather meaningful insights from all your UGC without getting completely overwhelmed.

For example, the high-end sporting gear store Le Col used Bazaarvoice's suite of UGC insights tools to gather more social proof for their products. They gathered enough images to add a gallery to their site, and they injected UGC into their email campaigns. This led to a 13% higher average order value for products with reviews, a 155% increase in revenue per visitor, and a 125% increase in conversion rates.

And the good news is that you can boost conversion rates and increase sales for your store by relying on UGC, too. To get started, check our Insights and Reports tools for gathering, analyzing, and helping you implement insights from UGC in your marketing campaigns.

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How to use consumer insights to elevate your marketing strategy

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Consumer insights are crucial to the success of your marketing strategy. Read these nine actionable tips to see how it's done.

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Behance - Pawsible food (Samyak + Armaan)

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playful and bright branding appeals to pet owners as they identity with their pet's personalities showing, or elements of their pets with the same tone/ evoking an emotional connection between brand and consumer and the product or service offered

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This is the logo / brand mark of the Pawsible foods project example, the logo shows the text wordmark and the icon, and then to the left the secondary logo shows just the icon.

I want to follow the same approach with my rebrand in that it will have a full logo with a symbol or icon, and then that can be broken down into different sub brand logos from the same design.

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social media and colour palettes bring this branding to life on social media, promoting the products, intended customers and making sure that the value of playfulness and the same energy comes through in all design aspects

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calming and affirmation feel promoting self care through using warm and neutral tones in the photography, lighting and colour grading to create a relaxing atmosphere that is needed for beauticians and aestheticians in the health and wellness industries

this links in with minimalist and sustainable branding trends as the simple designs are often the most impactful, and the warm feel appeals to clients seeking beauty treatments as they seem to shop for relaxation and self care purposes

in my own rebrand i want to communicate the similar concept but by using colour grading to show my personality as a creative professional, less to communicate relaxation as i am not creating a physical store experience

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I'll be creating a survey to collect general market insights in my niche/industry from a range of general public and clients I've worked with.

what branding and design choices matter to them?

Which platforms do they engage with? Instagram, tiktok, bechance

I will aim to have the survey ready to send out on the 25th of February 2025 and will open it until it has hit 100 responses or 10 days have passed - whichever is first.

The graphic attached illustrates some hypothetical results from the survey I intend to carry out.

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Create a short survey for existing or potential clients, focusing on values, design preferences, and pain points.

Ask open-ended questions during interviews, such as "What makes a brand memorable to you?" or "What do you look for in a branding agency?"

what branding elements make a business feel trustworthy

what values do you prioritise when choosing a design agency

summarise results in graphs or infographics to show data driven insights from primary research

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Build detailed profiles of two or three typical clients, outlining their needs, goals, and potential touchpoints with ALD Studios UK's rebranding.

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WHO IS ALDSTUDIOSUK IDEAL CONSUMER POST-REBRAND?

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WHO IS ALDSTUDIOSUK IDEAL CONSUMER POST-REBRAND?

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Demographics

Age: 25-40 age group (millennials and younger Generation X individuals)

Profession: creative entrepreneurs, small business owners in trade, pet care, health and wellbeing industries

Income: Mid to upper middle income, likely to invest in premium services

Location: urban, UK majority (London and South-East, and a few in Scotland within range to Edinburgh and Glasgow)

Education level: Degree-educated and/or professional experience in creative fields

Psychographics:

Values: self-expression, aesthetic and innovation

Lifestyle: digitally engaged, socially active and working on building personal or business brands

Motivations: unique branding to stand out in saturated markets

Pain Points: frustrated with generic or bland design solutions available for free/cheap, wants tailored and memorable bespoke branding

Cultural trends:

diversity and inclusivity in branding

eco-friendly and sustainable practice

strong, authentic story and mission

minimalist, modern and dynamic design aesthetics

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London’s creative exodus: has the capital lost its edge?

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The rising cost of living, combined with the digital revolution, is challenging London’s position as a creative capital, writes Nicola Kemp

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WHAT ARE THEIR PREFERENCES AND MOTIVATIONS?

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WHAT ARE THEIR PREFERENCES AND MOTIVATIONS?

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Preferences:

personalised and tailored design solutions

digital-first strategies, interactive through AR, VR, etc...

Clean and simple minimalist identity with impact

emotional storytelling to convey the brand's purpose, values and emotion

community-powered messaging that makes consumers feel a sense of belonging/shared values and interests

Motivations:

unique branding that aligns with modern consumer trends

build credibility and professionalism for their business with high-quality branding

emotional connection with customers with meaningful and intentional design

stay ahead in their respective industry by adopting innovative branding techniques and practices.

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DisneyEditable design templates featuring beloved classics

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Branding in Virtual Reality VR | Premium AI-generated image

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Download this Premium AI-generated image about Branding in Virtual Reality VR, and discover more than 60 million professional graphic resources on Freepik

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CULTURAL AND DESIGN TRENDS

micro-influencers and smaller content creators - Gen Z values authenticity, so showing creators with smaller audiences that are highly engaged would mesh well.

ALD Studios UK typically works with smaller businesses and creators. This would be beneficial to position me as a business that understands and amplifies the voice of niche businesses/creators

I can do this by showing more testimonials and social mentions from clients I've worked with

I could also collaborate with micro-influencers for brand storytelling. Though I am not quite sure if this is relevant to marketing services, it is something that could be considered from a promotion standpoint. Perhaps even team up with a content creator for a passion project / one-off project for content purposes and do it that way, maybe? I don't think using influencers as such would work as my business doesn't offer a shop of products; it's more business-to-business services.

I want to take inspiration from some of my favourite creators in my rebrand, in what their tone is across their content, and how they show up on camera to promote their brands.

Use/be present on design platforms like Behance to inspire marketing strategies.

show that my work is inspired by top-tier creatives, showing my credibility and creativity rather than just taking a picture off of Pinterest and making direct copy

specific platforms that are useful for entrepreneurs to find clients on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and Linkedin. But for each business, the specific platforms you join or should build a presence on would change depending on things like your target audience, what you offer and how you find your clients.

Behance would be a beneficial platform for me post-rebrand and should be one that I'm already on because it allows me to show off my portfolio on a reputable site that is used by other professionals, and elevates my work versus posting it on a Facebook page which looks a bit tacky. Sharing work on Behance is important as it helps to get your work and yourself as a professional out there more. This can also be added to LinkedIn to help with professional networking.

TikTok and Instagram hashtags like Romanticiseyourlife and Hopecore show a growing trend in positive affirmation-focused lifestyles.

incorporate aspirational storylines into my brand strategy to celebrate achievements and what makes clients/businesses unique

i can do this by using uplifting taglines and imagery inspired by these trends when making mockups for clients or passion projects

RELEVANT BRANDING TRENDS IN 2024

metamodernism - combines modern optimism with postmodern irony - honest emotional connections that use playful humour

I want my rebrand to be more playful in design but sincere in copy and tone

campaigns that focus on small joys or position their products and services as an escape from daily life

position ALD as a brand that brings joy to the clients I work with, taking the stress out of the branding and design process to empower creators.

pastel hues and bold colours for tranquil and creative vibes (Adobo)

pastel = approachable, bold = impact, balance creative energy whilst still being approachable and serene

Tinted darks for autumn and winter emphasise sustainability and stability and evoke curiosity, which is important for eco-conscious branding

muted dark tones to spotlight stability in the design process

minimal waste and carbon-neutral production/operations

sustainability in physical branding items, and emphasise this in messaging - things like recyclable business cards etc...

multisensory design - touch, sound, and scent to boost user engagement

sensory elements to make it a multidimensional experience to strengthen my impact on clients and show what I'm capable of - digital / AR business cards with motion design and music that matches the tone and feel of my new rebrand

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using microinfluencers to promote deisgn / marketing services

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using microinfluencers to promote deisgn / marketing services

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Adobe has done this recently with Adobe Express, and has partnered with creators like Grace Beverly, Aimee the owner of Odd Muse, Georgia Barrattand Sophdoeslife to name a few - popular creators among gen z on social media platforms like tiktok and instagram

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idea of promoting aldstudiosuk with micro influencers?

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idea of promoting aldstudiosuk with micro influencers?

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This is just an idea, i don't think i will do this for definite but I could partner with some of the content creators in my immediate networks/contact to promote my marketing services similar in the way that Adobe does with content creators to mostly focus on small businesses (who are my immediate target audience).

This will highlight how I can create influencer-ready branding assets that can cross over into a new market segment of content creators that don't sell products or services, they post content on their own social media of their everyday lives and the people/products they love etc...

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Are you brimming with ideas, creativity, and a passion to share your unique perspective with the world? If so, becoming a content creator might just be the perfect avenue for you.

Content creators are valuable for the creative and informative content they produce, whether working for a company or on their own.

But what does it take to be a good content creator? If you want to know how to become a content creator, follow these steps and examples from successful creators across industries.
What is a content creator? 10 Tips for Aspiring Content Creators
What is a content creator?

A content creator produces entertaining, helpful, or educational material that caters to the interests and challenges of a target audience.

The content they produce can take many forms, including blog posts, videos, podcasts, photos, and graphics.

A few common types of content creators include:

Podcasters.

YouTubers.

Writers.

Social media influencers.

Whether you work on a content marketing team at your company or you're building a personal brand as a content creator, there are some tried-and-true steps you can follow that will put you on the path to being a truly successful content creator.

Fair warning: Like all good things, it's not going to happen overnight. And it shouldn't, because you're trying to get good at it, not just simply do it.

But the sooner you start working on these steps, the sooner you'll be well on your way to becoming a high-quality content creator.

1. Choose a niche.

As you're getting started with content creation, you should have a general idea of the topics you want to talk about or the channel you want to focus on.

For example, maybe you have a background as a social media manager and want to share your social media tips with others on Instagram.

Or perhaps you paid off a ton of debt and want to share your personal finance tips on YouTube so others can do the same.

Whatever you choose to focus on will be your niche or positioning, and all of the content you create should be relevant to that niche.

But don't feel pressure to settle into a niche right away. In fact, content creator Vanessa Lau shares that you don't necessarily need to have a niche as soon as you get started.

"If you are just starting out, I would say that experimenting with a broader niche and broader audience is going to help you accelerate the journey of finding that niche over time," she shared on her YouTube channel.

"The mistake that I see a lot of aspiring content creators making is they stress so much about finding a niche to the point where they don't create any content at all," she said.

Hear more of her tips for aspiring content creators in the video below:
Source
2. Read content about your industry every day.

Creating great content that really resonates with your target audience requires you to be tapped into your industry. The best content creators scour - not just read but scour - the internet for industry news and trends.

This sets them up nicely to understand the context behind what's happened historically in their industry and how that shapes their target audience's mindset in the present.

Subscribe to newsletters, listen to podcasts, and read industry publications and blogs to stay on top of the latest trends and observations from thought leaders in your space.

Also, ask your audience what they're reading and watching these days and follow suit. By discovering where your audience spends time online, you can learn even more about the topics and types of content they're drawn to.

3. Write on the regular.

If you don't use it, you lose it. Successful content creators understand the importance of constantly flexing their writing muscles.

Doing so helps them work through ideas that might be jumbled in their head and identify nuggets that could turn into fully realized ideas later.

Successful content creators may not always be inspired to write, but they know something inspiring can come from their writing.

Even if your main channel doesn't involve written content - for example, if you're a podcaster or YouTuber - writing regularly helps you better form your thoughts and understand your unique point of view.

Get in the habit of writing by doing it daily or every other day. I'm not saying you need to write a polished, 1500-word essay on an industry-relevant topic daily.

Rather, I'm talking about setting aside 10 or 15 minutes to jot down some thoughts and ideas.

Figure out when your mind is the clearest (it could be first thing in the morning or late into the night) and just free-form write. What did you read yesterday that stuck with you? What didn't you understand?

Asking yourself those questions should start the flow.

And if you run into writer's block, you can leverage HubSpot's Free AI Content Writer and tweak the results to your liking.

Content creator Zak Sherman shared his daily writing routine, demonstrating that you don't need to write essays to practice writing. Even sending an email can be an exercise in crafting your words and finding your voice.
Image Source
4. Study your audience.

One of the hardest pills to swallow as a creative professional is that you are at the mercy of your audience - and the needs of that audience can sap your creativity.

But, at the end of the day, your audience pays your bills. And if you study your audience deeply enough, you'll find interests and creative opportunities you wouldn't have found without them.

One of the most important qualities of all successful content creators?

They know their audience inside and out. Examine your own readers and viewers: What do they want that you're not yet giving them? What problems do they have that you can solve for them?

Tracking and analyzing certain metrics can help you figure out if your content is resonating with your audience.

If you have a newsletter, a high open rate tells you that your subject line spoke to your subscribers. A high click-through rate lets you know that people wanted to know more about the links you included.

Study your audience - their behaviors, interests, and trends - to create content that they want to see. And if you're still stuck, ask your audience directly.

The people who are interested in your content will be more than happy to share feedback for what they want to see more of.

5. Establish your own voice.

Quick reality check: You're not the only content creator in your industry. That means you're not the only one offering the advice, observations, and thought leadership your industry is asking for.

There are lots of things you can do to stand out from the other content creators in your field: diversifying into a new content medium, promoting your content on different channels, and naturally gaining experience and trust over time.

But even then, the content producers with whom you're competing for attention are doing the same thing.

What can you bring to your content that nobody else can? Your own personal voice.

Content creator Erica Schneider has built a large following on Twitter by sharing writing and editing tips.

Writing and editing are popular topics, but what helps Schneider stand out is how she weaves her voice and personality into everything she shares.

One of the tips she shared in the thread below is to show up as yourself. "Sounds simple, but it's easy to lose your voice in a sea of templated tips," she tweeted. "Let your personality out. Add your unique flare. Take a stance for or against something."
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Readers click on your content for the information, but they come back for the personality. Writing about cybersecurity?

Don't just offer fresh insight on today's malware; offer analogies and personal stories of data breaches that justify your insights and that only you can offer.

6. Curate other people's content (when it makes sense to).

There's no shortage of people curating content these days.

In fact, anyone on the internet can take someone else's content and retweet it, share it on LinkedIn, or write their own blog post around it - the list goes on.

But successful content creators know it's not enough to take relevant industry news and spit it back out to your fans and followers.

Engaging with the content and sharing how it's relevant to you is key.

Freelance writer and content creator Kat Boogaard shares a weekly newsletter for subscribers interested in receiving her tips and insights on freelancing.

One section of the newsletter is dedicated to other resources that she knows her audience will find relevant.
Image source
Get in the habit of curating content when you have something valuable to add. Now that you've started scouring the internet on a regular basis for industry news, you probably have a wider depth of knowledge than you think.

Be confident, and give your readers additional, useful information or even a thought or opinion when sharing others' content. Your networks will appreciate it, and the author probably will too (or it could at least spark a debate - bonus!).

7. Understand your KPIs.

Just because you publish content online doesn't mean you'll get the traffic your insight deserves. To get your content discovered, you first need to focus on a key performance indicator (KPI) and optimize your content for it.

A KPI is a specific metric you've chosen to measure how well your content is doing against your expectations.

Some KPIs that content creators might track include:

Social media traffic: the number of visitors that come to your content from a social media post.

Direct traffic: the number of visitors that come to your content by entering your website's URL directly into their browser's address bar.

Organic traffic: the number of visitors that come to your content from a search engine result link.

Submissions: the number of people who visit your website and leave having submitted their contact information in exchange for a resource you offered them (a form of lead generation).

If you have an active blog or YouTube channel and want to focus on organic traffic, for example, it's a good idea to study both Google and YouTube's search algorithm to find out how it ranks content.

Then, optimize your content so that it performs well under the organic traffic KPI. The more knowledge you have of the KPIs available to content creators now, the more successful your content will be.

8. Network at every opportunity.

Successful content creators know their success is due not only to their passion but also to those who taught them, inspired them, and pushed them to think differently.

This is one-way content creators grow into successful content creators. They've accepted that there's more to learn than what they already know, and they're open to new ways of thinking.

Networking forces you to do just that. It's a time to listen to others' ideas and take them into consideration alongside your own.

Get in the habit of networking by seizing the countless opportunities you have to do it. They aren't called social networks for nothing! Spend some time on Twitter and LinkedIn to check out who the thought leaders are in your industry and follow them.

9. Offer solutions, not just commentary.

When you're just getting started as a content creator, you might already have the knowledge your market is looking for. For successful content creators, however, expertise isn't everything.

Want your audience to remember your content? Don't just recite the things you know - explain why they're important and what your audience can take away from them.

The people consuming your content aren't interested in just hearing you talk. They come looking to satisfy specific needs. Provide actionable tips and walk them through the solutions you're suggesting.

Twitter threads are a great example of how to do this effectively.

In the thread below, finance content creator Andrew Lokenauth shares a helpful guide on different types of financial statements every investor should understand.

Not only does he state why he's qualified to share his tips, but Lokenauth also uses graphics throughout the thread that makes it easy to follow along with the tips.
Image source
Whether those needs are to solve a problem or to simply increase their confidence in your industry, it's your job to put your market observations into terms they can understand and find lessons in.

10. Question everything.

Polished content creators are curious by nature. They've learned to be curious about the internal knowledge they already have and the external information that's being promoted out in the world.

It's the insights that come from this inherent curiosity that makes great content.

Get in the habit of questioning the status quo by constantly playing devil's advocate.

Taking the contrarian view of a piece of content can be difficult at first.

However, if you start to question why the author thinks this way and what happened in the industry that triggered this viewpoint, you'll begin to think more critically about the content you're consuming.

And if you didn't know, critical thinkers make great content creators.

Getting Started

There's a lot of pressure on content creators to churn out great content and build their brands.

Just know that being a successful content creator starts with the habits you form, as they'll set you up to produce some seriously valuable content for your target audience.

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How to Become a Content Creator: 10 Steps

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These 10 essential tips will equip you with the skills, strategies, and mindset needed to embark on a successful journey as a content creator.

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askly - gif logo animation

Askly is a professional but still corporate and professional identity. The colour used in the logo is a dark tone and stands out well when against a neutral cream/ivory background like this. the animated logo brings a fun and friendly feel to the brand which gives even more personality to the design vs being a static wordmark on the page.

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This social media content mockup shows brighter colours and pastel shades being used that still feels relevant to the brand but doesn't lose its aesthetic or feel when more colours are introduced to the design

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A creative aesthetic that still looks professional, uses a vibrant colour palette and bold typography that feels polished but still friendly and approachable

this project shows eco-friendly design with a maximalist spin that is done in a way that isn't overly chaotic and crowded but still communicates the same buzz energy that you'd get from a food restaurant.

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This has a page layout design style that I quite like, it keeps the colourful and personality in the design without being so corporate it loses its soul entirely

There are more pastel shades in the brand guide as it builds trust and connection rather than being bold as this is used to guide the brand's design for all social platforms and marketing tools.

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the metamodernism design style uses playful design to create an emotional connection with target audience/customers

I like the style of using bold and ironic visual styles through typography, and interactive design through animation that will increase the eye-catching element

in my rebrand, I want to use humour and more dynamic styles to show that I'm not just like your typical designer with no personality other than working behind a screen. i want to show the same energy I do with my designs, but show more of myself and my life. This will make me appear more relatable and innovative

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this is an example of a metamodernism style design template on Canva

I quite like the holographic 3d drippy text here and i could take some elements of that into my rebrand, possibly? Or even as a design style for my passion projects and client work if i dont use it as my main branding style for my own business.

the styles and aesthetics of the metamodernism style are quite playful, and this can build relatability with clients and other businesses. This appeals to my target audience as an impactful design like the example above would be a great talking point with clients whether ive worked with them before or not. this appeals to my target audience as it starts the conversation and sparks client to designer relationships from the get go.

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Brand: Olipop

The way that pastel tones have been used creates a really calm and refreshing feel, which sets the tone for this company's products of flavoured soft drinks. this works well for creating a modern and approachable feel for Olipop. This creates a retro vibe of the brand that is comforting and appeals to health-conscious and nostalgia-seeking consumers.

In my rebrand, I want to follow a similar approach to balance playfulness and sophistication by using clean and simple aesthetics in my design. Using pastel tones can help build trust with clients and create the feel of warmth that I liked with the aesthetics example, but I didn't want to use the same approach. Pastel tones can be inviting for small businesses and encourage trust, which is important when investing in the design and branding of a business of any size.

I can also continue this approach when using palettes for design elements like my logo, business cards and website to create a relaxed and approachable vibe.

this relates to my rebrand as the pastel tones create an emotional connection which id need to do for any clients, but more specifically with small businesses in my target audience - being mostly aestheticians and beauticians at the moment in the health and wellness industries.

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designed on Canva

bold / pastel colours evoke calmness and trust which is vital for beauty services and pet care industries

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The combination of pastel tones and a playful store design creates an immersive calming feel that draws customers in to take a break and escape from the stresses of their everyday lives

in my rebrand i want to draw from the same approach to create an escape experience, but im not sure how this would come to light with a design experience - perhaps this would be cool to use for content on social media in a less direct involvement to my services?

I know for sure that I want to create a calming customer experience that makes my clients feel good about the design elements in my rebrand, and can interact with it and have fun with it

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How brands can appeal to our need for escapism

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As long as there is reality, there will be the need to transform it. And for today’s retail store design firms, that increasingly means sending shoppers on a multi-sensory adventure, starting with their taste buds.

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designed with Canva AI 'magic media' - a design style that gives you the power to escape from your everyday life and immerse yourself in an image or setting.

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The dark hues create a sense of mystery and sophistication. I could incorporate this into my rebrand to add a mature feel that is grounded and linked to nature. This also links to sustainability as the colours here are very earthy and natural which elevates the brand and makes it feel more luxurious than affordable level.

I do not want my entire branding identity to be dark, but I do like the idea of using a few darker tones with my typography that isn't as stark as a plain black, which will look a lot better and mature - creating a more high-end experience

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I hope you enjoy checking these out and I would love to hear how they inspire you! Let me know which is your favorite and what you would use it for (interior decorating, wedding colors, branding, nail art, digital illustration, wardrobe, painting, etc.) in the comments.

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Color Palette: Dark + Moody - Paper Heart Design Co.

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There is so much beauty in the dark and weird, the offbeat and the moody. This opinion may be a result of years of watching Tim Burton movies, I can't say for sure, but that sort of beauty is the inspiration for this color palette collection.

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Aveda uses darker tints to promote sustainability in their products and gives the brand a more luxury feel

In my rebrand, I could use muted colours for an eco-conscious touch, especially on recycled materials for things like stickers, business cards, flyers, etc...

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Shop by collection and discover all Aveda products for hair care, styling, skin care and body care.

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Canva - editable template I changed to say 'open for business'

tinted darks like the green, especially with the leafy imagery in this design, add to the strong sustainability element of the design trend

this is critical to consider for my rebrand as this is something that is becoming highly prioritised in modern consumers going forward, so i need to make sure i work this into all of my strategies and campaigns from here on out to maintain relevance and future proof my business.

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carbon neutral, zero waste packaging fits with sustainability trends that use recyclable eco-friendly materials in their operations.

in my rebrand i want to show that ALD Studios can use sustainable practices to offer carbon-neutral packaging designs using eco-friendly printing suppliers that value sustainability. This can attract more modern consumers that value sustainable businesses

when i do rebrand, I can create this through packaging design mockups that show minimal sustainable materials like kraft paper business cards and flyers, recycled plastics and biodegradable material options.

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reduced plastic waste by 50% through innovative, modern packaging designs

To work this approach into my rebrand, I could design some packaging using minimal waste and considerate materials

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branded recyclable packaging - cardboard boxes, this could also be optimised for kraft packaging for an eco-friendly approach

this will show more of a commitment to sustainable design and make aldstudiosuk more relevant to modern consumers that are eco-conscious

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sustainable alternative to mass consumption that promotes eco friendliness.

The rebrand can position ALD as a design studio that incorporates sustainable design into every project, such as using recycled materials for client printed materials and packaging options

to promote this more, I can show recycled materials in my design mockups for client projects and portfolio briefs linking high quality branding to sustainability

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Eco-friendly Recycled Business cards Swansea & Cardiff | Print Crowd

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Eco Friendly Recycled business cards, offered in 3 sustainable card options. Choose from white, off-white and kraft recycled business cards.

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to bring my design business into the future and create more engaging design approaches that can use digital motion design in my rebrand like digital VR business cards and animations to further innovate my branding experience

i could do this by creating a responsive portfolio website using motion design and AR

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Kivisense Blog - AR Try-on Solutions & Showcases

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Augmented reality cards: examples, videos, benefits, and how to create

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With Shopify virtual try on plugin, an AR experience allows customer to use their smartphone to virtually try on shoes and boosts sales...

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(This image was generated on Canva using the AI feature 'Magic Media'

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motion graphics design example (a rough idea!)

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motion graphics design example (a rough idea!)

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Whilst I was researching, and for a couple of projects I've worked on before, I had the idea of using some kind of virtual experience where people can walk through my portfolio in the metaverse and see my work in a virtual gallery.

This is something I don't quite know how to do but I would love to be able to try it out, even if it doesn't make the outcomes.

Additionally, a more simplified approach is a way for clients to scan project previews that I'd send them via email and be able to see them in motion through their phone screens. Again, I don't quite know how to do this but that would be really cool to try out!

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when you look at and interact with a project in the frame, you can touch it and it will play an interactive / animated element of the portfolio like an animated logo for instance

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mcdonalds recent brand refresh uses tactile materials, interactive elements and visual design to improve customer engagement

my rebrand can use multisensory design into my own branding by using interactive elements like touchable textures in print design, or motion experiences to make my branding experiences more engaging

i could also take this into client work by including motion design into client project delivery showing shop signs, logo animations etc...

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McDonald’s reveals surprise new look (but can it take Burger King’s crown?)

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emotional connection with customers by being playful

drives engagement, highly shareable content for social media to share with friends and family

I can take inspiration from this when i share client projects and testimonials showing personalised elements of the project in their brand fonts and colours.

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Adobe Illustrator is a vector-based design tool to make designs scalable without pixelation or quality issues.

I use Illustrator already to create logos and designs for myself and for client rebrands and social content to improve the quality of brand elements that I either design for myself or clients that can be used on different websites and platforms and file formats.

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example of a project ive used Illustrator for

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example of a project ive used Illustrator for

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accessible user-friendly platform for creating quick and simple designs from scratch or a series of templates you can adapt from the click of a button

whilst ALD promotes custom designs that are done with Adobe software that is much more high-end, Canva provides a free and lower-tier alternative that can be good for businesses that are just starting out and perhaps don't have a budget or the knowledge to create their branding.

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We’re bringing you along for another fast and furious Canva tutorial! Today, we’re diving into how to curve text in Canva.

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Example of a project I've used canva for 

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Example of a project I've used canva for 

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creating a carousel post for a client that does interior design/house renovation

i didn't use any templates for this but i did use the brand kit feature to craft their brand identity for social media content.

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Blender is a free design software that enables you to make 3d modelling, animation and 3d rendering

using blender in my rebrand can help me to create 3d branding like product prototypes and animated logos for higher tier premium clients that want more innovative design solutions

i can do this by making 3d mockups of product designs or brand animations to show potential for future projects using the latest cutting edge design in their branding - positioning me as a key player in the industry to elevate their business and take it into 2025 and beyond.

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Using pastel tones for emotional element to my branding which appeals to wellness, beauty clients with calming visuals which matches with the experience they would want to provide

Tinted darks would suit higher end branding and eco-friendly design concepts

Minimal waste branding for low impact printing and eco-conscious packaging to reduce impact on the planet with any design and print services

Motion graphics for things like animation in my logo, VR business cards or interactive portfolio

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bespoke

ethical

high-quality

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Who also is using headshot first branding instead of just logos?

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funkyenoughh

prettylittlemarketer

videoeditor.em

mollymanski.co

katiesteckly

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bold and artistic content style

individuality, creativity, and personal empowerment

strong community feel with frequent interactive posts

targets younger creatives or people in the creative industry that want to be authentic

provides valuable content with actionable tips or relatable anecdotes for highly engaged niche audience

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informative and approachable content

breaks down strategies for marketers, freelancers and entrepreneurs

40k followers - community building, webinars, memberships and guides

targets social media pro's and budding marketers looking for simple but effective strategies

services include 1-1 consultations, workshops, digital products and community building events and networking opportunities

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educational and technical content style, focusing on the video editing niche for tips, tutorials and creative projects

niche but loyal following, catering to aspiring and professional video editors with interactive tutorials and project showcases

targets video editors and content creators seeking to improve technical skills

offers video editing tips, software recommendations and potential paid services

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authentic and professional style, targeting small businesses for branding with a clean and minimal design approach

steady and meaningful engagement with carousel posts and BTS looks at projects to show her expertise

targeting small business owners and entrepreneurs looking for personalised branding services

offers brand strategy, logo design and custom templates for growing your business

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educational content for creators, focusing on strategies for podcasts, youtube growth and being successful on social media

consistent video tutorials, inspirational captions and success stories of her clients /audience to create trust and build credibility

targets content creators and influencers looking to earn money and monetize their platforms, or to grow their reach

offers educational courses, coaching services and DIY guides for growing an online presence

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creative, high-quality visuals showing my services and capabilities

combination of portfolio-style posts showing completed projects, and my branding projects alongside it

professional but approachable tone that appeals to small businesses and entrepreneurs

targets small business owners, creative entrepreneurs, as well as boutique and niche service providers

followers may be interested in clean, modern and impactful branding for their businesses

UK focused but potential for international appeal through digital reach

services offered - branding, logo design, social media templates, custom projects

personal insights and process showcases add a human element to my brand

IMPROVEMENTS / ADJUSTMENTS

I could leverage the industries of clients I work with to position myself as the go-to specialist

consistent posting schedule, 3 to 5 posts per week to engage audience

use formats for reels and stories to show my skills and behind the scenes of processes

collaborate with brands or influencers aligned with my audience to expand reach, and potentially start monetising

NOTES FROM THE PREVIOUS ACCOUNTS

take inspiration from funkyenoughh for bold creative storytelling and unique visuals to stand out

learn from pretty little marketers to push educational posts and offer quick tips or resources for successful branding

mollymanski approach to emphasise clean and minimal design to show my expertise

katiesteckly shows behind-the-scenes content of the design/editing process, this will add a deeper side to my brand's story

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the original logo was definitely more chaotic than the simplified one i use today, but as ALD has evolved the new logo shows a modern identity that fits better with todays market and values.

The refined logo shows a sleeker design with a minimalist approach and pastel and bold shades of pink to appeal to a broader audience whilst promoting brand recognition.

The updated logo from the rebrand would be used across design assets, packaging and social media to make a more cohesive and streamlined personal brand / online presence that positions me as a modern business.

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content style shows branding that is adaptable, and tells a story. branding is high quality and impactful

focus is on collaborations with clients

targets larger businesses and established brands like Reddit and Channel 4 that need help with their branding in order to scale

services - branding, identity, motion and animation, and multi platform

STRENGTHS: Innovative, systems are adapted to each client and tells a story with each project, which is consistent in all content. high end branding that is streategically designed

WEAKNESSES: Premium prices limit accessibility for smaller businesses and entrepreneurs and the projects they show risk being too broad and universal for multiple industries, no set niche to narrow down service even more. high price and packages

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content style shows affordable design solutions for branding and identity projects.

engagement is mostly direct between the designer and their clients, with a transactional exchange rather than collaboration. this prioritises speed and cost efficiency

targets smaller businesses and new startups with little budget that want a quick branding solution that is accessible and customisable

offers logo design, branding and digital and print design

STRENGTHS: Affordable, quick turnaround, more accessible for smaller businesses and startups

WEAKNESSES: Lack of tailored design, quality is not consistent which doesn't create the best impression if its not as consistent, as this wont create trust it looks unreliable

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At the moment, I would say that ALD STUDIOS UK is positioned between 99designs and pentagram, but there is still a large discrepancy between the lower level that I'm currently at and where those two brands are.

Nonetheless, my services are personalised for each client in terms of recommendations and pricing. My projects are largely flexible to client budget, making it more tailored and accessible to all kinds of clients.

In the chart attached to this post I ranked the instagram pages, and two industry players among myself in terms of price and customisation.

In my current business I combine the affordable service with a highly customisable design experience, this also brings more opportunity to push the custom side of my services and promote sustainability as my USP.

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This is a comparison between ALD and each of the competitors in the graph above, and covered briefly in a few posts above too:

PENTAGRAM

very high price

highly bespoke and custom design, premium

targets large international brands

Cutting-edge design for high-end projects

too expensive for smaller businesses making it inaccessible

99 designs

affordable, different priced options

moderate customisation, flexible to some extent

startups and small businesses

low cost with a range of designers (freelance approach)

quality control, not completely personalised

Instagram creators (funkyenoughh, prettylittlemarketers etc)

mid range to affordable

high customisation for smaller projects like social media content

small business owners, gen z entrepreneurs

relatable, approachable and targeted niche communities

focuses more on content creation and strategy not full brand design

ALDSTUDIOSUK

mid range pricing which is accessible for small businesses

high focus on bespoke tailored design with sustainability

small business and startups in creative sectors

high quality design tailored to sustainability

still working on brand recognition in a saturated creative marketplace

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entrepreneurs, small business owners, creatives in the beauty, real estate, pet services, restaurants and wellness industries

widespread pain points include DIY branding struggles, inconsistent messaging and a need for eco-friendly solutions

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Coke was already the top market leader but the brand was more old fashioned compared to the modern competitors post-war

cleaner and more refined version of its previous logo wordmark, and shifted to being part of a lifestyle, not just a drink alone

helped the brand to modernise its image and connect with a younger audience. Today we know the brand for its holiday campaigns and associate it with joy and celebration

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Apple was struggling in the 90's with heavy competition from Microsoft. Apple was viewed as niche, outdated and wasn't keeping up

Steve Jobs returned in 1997 and the brand was simplified to focus on innovation, minimalism and elegance. The rainbow logo of the time was replaced with the monochromatic version signposting a shift towards a cleaner more professional feel

this move helped apple position itself as a leader in the industry and brought about the creation of the iPod, iPhone and Macbook which are some of its hero products we know and love today.

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in the 80's Nike was a niche footwear brand that sold mostly running shoes to athletes. the brand was viewed as one for serious pro athletes only

the rebrand in 1988 under Wieden & Kennedy brought the 'just do it' slogan to bring the brand's target audience to a wider group including the everyday person to inspire anyone to push their limits and be active. The logo was streamlined with the simple but impactful swoosh tick

the rebrand was a pivotal moment turning them into a global brand that later helped Nike dominate the athletic and lifestyle markets.

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rise in sustainability - highlight eco-friendly materials in designs - recyclable packaging in passion projects/client projects. Commitment to ethical practice and using earthy nature tones associated with sustainability

inclusivity - show a range of different industries and businesses in my portfolio, and ensure the visual design is welcoming, gender neutral and reflective of different identities and cultures - design for all

digital-first approaches - social media optimisation for specific platforms with different dimensions or screen resolutions, and make the experience more engaging with animations to stand out in digital spaces.

emotional connection with storytelling - share stories of clients you've worked with showing how designs have transformed their brand, highlight testimonials etc...

personalisation - personalised consultations for client enquiries, create branding assets clients can adapt to their own platforms, contrast against the generic soulless design templates on Canva and spotlight your ability to adapt branding for various industries and niches

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CHALLENGES

narrowing down my current target audience that is currently not as defined, and still quite broad making it hard to define promotion and marketing efforts at the moment

selecting trends that are going to be the most relevant to help me grow the business following the rebrand

sustainability vs design aesthetics means there is often an imbalance as the general belief is that sustainable design is not aesthetically pleasing

understanding my audience's needs is proving to be tricky, considering my audience is not pinpointed to one target consumer in all clients.

SOLUTIONS

to balance trends like pastel colours with my work, I need to make sure I am considering the future industry trends when designing for clients to promote this knowledge and emanate it into their businesses to ensure they are being positioned appropriately, and the designs are aligned with their values.

tailoring my service offers to meet the personalisation aspect of trend forecasts in the industry - I do this already but I need to ensure it is done to a higher level to future-proof my business

by looking at the most occurring demographics of my target audience, it seems to be more 25-44 aged individuals that are creating businesses towards the end of their typical 9-5 careers and are seeking to make this their full-time endeavour.

in terms of design, my research has given me lots to consider and will inform the next stage of my project where I start to envision and manifest the branding assets to start the design process of my rebrand.

make eco-friendly designs stylish and trendy with considered, thoughtful design and print sourcing with sustainable suppliers and printing companies.

consider involving promotions with content creators and micro-influencers to partner with on a video ad/marketing promotions for the rebrand - though it is not the core focus of the project, it would be a way to promote that is more outside of the box, and more impactful.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

through my research so far I have started to identify some gaps in competitor businesses/offers that I can leverage in my rebrand

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23rd December

finalise research reflections and key concepts for rebrand / deliverable ideas

organise and update Padlet

27th - 29th December

draft a presentation structure - intro, research insights, trend applications, conclusions

identify gaps in visuals and start drafting them

2nd - 4th January

complete mockups

finalise research insights and reflections for the presentation

7th January (TUE)

add headings, short text snippets and visuals to each slide

practice a verbal run-through of what I'll say

9th January (THU)

Polish slides for visuals, make sure the text is a clear and logical flow

15th January (WED)

record presentation video

edit presentation video

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The feedback I got from my presentation was generally really positive, there wasn't any critique or improvements suggested. Debbie and Jenny said I did really well and the idea is perfect for me in this unit.

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Honours Presentation - January 16th 2025

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Personal brand vs Business branding (My shift)

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Personal brand vs Business branding (My shift)

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why am i transitioning ALD Studios to be more personality led - using a headshot instead of a logo

brand values - sustainability, innovation, authenticity

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Explore a hand-picked collection of Pins about ALD REBRAND INSPO on Pinterest.

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At the moment, compared to industry trends I've looked at, the branding for aldstudiosuk lacks innovation.

I do not currently use motion design in my branding, I do not offer custom packaging (though this has been requested before by clients), and in terms of logo usage my logo has mainly been used for my social media pages, my website, and for invoices and client documents.

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logo concept at the moment (current design)

colour palette - pastel pink and darker pink tone which is in line with trends but more adapted to my personality

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Montserrat Black Font

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deeper reflection and clear next steps