From DIY to professional branding: when it's time to invest
Let me just start by saying, there is absolutely no shame in DIY branding. In fact, stop apologising for it. You had a vision, you took action and did what you could with what you had. I'm not shaming you for it, I respect it.
Why DIY branding works at first
DIY branding works at first because it gets you started, it gets your business out there and lets you test your ideas with real people quicker, instead of being hung up on visuals that might not resonate with your people yet. Plus it’s better to have something than to have nothing.
So, is there a point when DIY branding stops working for your small business?
A few years into your business and you’re starting to get flustered, the dream customers who you dream about are still out of reach and you’ve hit the ceiling of what to do next. Your business is growing. You’re growing too and the trusty visuals you’ve used so far, you’re starting to disconnect from them, and maybe even feel embarrassed.
Starting to feel a bit of resentment towards them because it’s not representing what you do anymore or showing how your business is evolving. And this is where you realise: you’re grateful for what you’ve built up until this point, but it’s time. You’re ready for more.
This is where a professional brand design comes in
It starts by meeting you where you are, listening to your vision and turning those goals into a clear, actionable plan
Professional branding for small businesses always starts with some form of brand research, audit, or in-depth brand strategy. And because every business is different, some need extra detailed strategy work, whereas others need less.
But one thing is the same: there's a clear direction in place. How you look is important, but how you make people feel is better. And without that foundation, it's a lot harder to grow your business with a clear understanding and picture in place.
How do you know you’re ready to invest in branding?
There are a few signs you’re ready to hire a brand designer for the next creative stage in your business, but only you truly know when the time is right.
Sales might be coming in, but they're not the quality you want
Or maybe sales have dropped completely and you need to refine your target audience
Another sign is when you know you do an amazing job at the service you offer, but feel like you can’t charge your worth
Investing in professional branding bridges that gap and helps you build your perception so you can finally be confident in talking about your pricing or attract your ideal customers.
If you're thinking of hiring a designer for your business's next chapter, here's what to look for:
Examples of their past work and whether you connect with their style
How they approach the project and take you through the design journey so the process feels easy and exciting, not like another stress
Knowing who exactly you're working with and having a dedicated partner who's personally invested in your business, that 1-1 attention that can be hard to find at scale
Why the right partnership matters
When you move away from DIY, you aren't just getting a new set of files; you're gaining the confidence to show up as the leader your business needs you to be. You get to stop "playing small" and start showing up with a visual identity that finally matches the high level of service you provide.
My promise to you
For me, when I work with my clients it's all about transparency. We're all busy and I want to serve you the best I can whilst keeping things kind, respectable and honest. I put a lot of time into making sure you feel understood, know what's going on, and what happens next. I want to be the brand designer you can trust. I'll absolutely get the job done, but I also care about you and your business and its success.
are you Ready for the next chapter?
Wondering if now's the right time to invest in professional branding?
Let's have a chat with no pressures, just an honest conversion about where you are and what your small business needs, get in touch here.
