Smitten Creative | Branding | Design | Squarespace Web Design | Chicago

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Your business, a love story.

“Thoughtfully charming brands invite customers to fall in love and go steady.”

Let's talk about love. We all know what it means and how it makes us feel. But, it's one of those things we know when we feel it and have a harder time putting into words, the definition being ethereal, elusive. Love is magnetic magic.

What does any of this have to do with your business? Everything. It's what makes a business a brand – emotion. And a brand is a business adored by its customers and clients, inspiring affinity and advocacy. (I believe in this connection so strongly I named my business after it.) 

So, how do we encourage this relationship with our customers? The good news is, we don't have to leave it to chance and the answer begins with a simple question: how did you get ready for your first date? 

I imagine you endeavoured to look your absolute best because, for better or worse, first impressions have weight. Why would we do anything differently when it comes to your business?

A business initially makes this impression with things most people think about when we talk about branding – logos, colors, illustrations, photography – beautifying our websites, email marketing, packaging, business and thank you cards. Yes, accessories do make the outfit.

But looks aren't everything. 

“How you feel about your business influences how others feel about your business.”

You probably wouldn't spend time building a committed relationship with someone you knew had values fundamentally different from your own. And we want to be loved for who we are. It's why our branding work starts with understanding your purpose and your customers' needs so we can communicate clearly, with words and pictures, what you're about. 

So, are you in love with your own branding? 

● Does it still feel true to you?

● Does it make the impression your customers hope for?

● Does it make you proud to share?

● Can you see yourself being together for a long, long time?  

If the answer isn't a resounding yes, it's just that much harder for our customers to be smitten and stick with us.

Sure, relationships take work after the first blush has wained but, when they're built with integrity, the work is so much sweeter. It's what I call the heart and science of business and I'd love to tell you more. Because when we find our right match, it feels amazing. Almost effortless.

 Candice