Artist Formally Known as VRC? My Journey to Rebranding for Creative Design and Branding Business

Rebranding is more than just a name change; it’s like breathing a new lease of life into yourself as a small business owner. It's both exciting and challenging and can feel overwhelming, filled with questions that define your business's future. This post explores the journey of rebranding Victoria Rodgers Creates, focusing on the key elements like logos, graphic design, and establishing a new brand identity.

Why good by to V.R.C?

Businesses may take the step to rebrand for various reasons. For instance, according to a survey, 60% of companies find their original names don’t reflect their current offerings as they evolve. Others may feel their outdated visual identity no longer captures the attention it once did in today's fast-paced design world..

I was the former!

Rebranding allows your business to reinvent itself. It's an opportunity to clarify what the business represents today and where it aims to go. A well-chosen name can communicate value more effectively, fostering a deeper understanding among target audiences. For example, when the tech company Apple Inc. shifted to a simpler logo in 1998, it redefined its image, leading to a 33% increase in sales within a year.

Why Vi?

A catchy and memorable name can set the course for the entire rebranding process. It should evoke emotions, reflect core values, and connect with the target audience. Involving community input can be crucial. For example, Coca-Cola includes feedback from consumers when launching new products, ensuring their marketing resonates with their audience. A name that carries significance makes it easier to form this essential connection with potential clients.

I explored some options myself before posting on my Facebook page for feedback and suggestions, this also helped with engagement on my socials. I eventually landed on Victoria Illustrated so I could shorten it to "Vi" after seeing so many designers on Instagram blatantly admit to using "ai" for your their designs and I wanted to emphasise the fact that I am an illustrator, hence the tagline art-official not artificial! The initials also lend them selves to there descriptors in my field like vector illustration and visual identity.

Crafting a Compelling Visual Identity

Once the name is settled, it’s time to turn to logos and graphics. Visual identity is often the first impression of a business and plays a vital role in branding. A well-designed logo encapsulates the brand’s essence, conveying values and personality without words.

Luckily that's my job though it doesn't mean it's easier! I loved my current brand colours so just tweaked the blue and as character mascots are still my speciality my face was going no where but I moved to a simple letter mark for my primary logo and a hand drew a bespoke font for the first part of my business name.

Testing the Waters

Before launching the new name and visual identity, gathering feedback is essential. Insights from existing clients and fellow designers can provide valuable perspectives. Engaging these groups through focus groups or informal discussions can help fine-tune the refreshed identity.

Testing might reveal unexpected reactions or helpful suggestions. For instance, before launching a new logo, Starbucks surveyed customers and adjusted designs based on feedback—a move that solidified customer loyalty. Identifying any potential issues ahead of time can save regrets after the launch.

Again I was very lucky as sneaky peaks of my new logo received positive feedback within minutes of uploading online,

Hello Vi

After the months of planning and testing, the next thrilling step is launching the new brand identity. Taking care in announcing this transition is crucial. Informing existing clients about the change will assure them that they are still valued and that the quality of services will remain the same.

Consider crafting a captivating story that explains the rationale behind the rebranding. Personal touch can help clients feel connected to the brand. For example, when Dunkin' rebranded itself from Dunkin' Donuts, the focus was on coffee, which resonated with a market shift. They used a mixture of social media campaigns and in-store promotions to share their evolution effectively.

After initially informing everyone I'd be back in the New Year with a new look I got a bit excited and changed all my bits and bobs within a day or too and just before Christmas …yeah don't follow me!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Consider Before Rebranding?

Before jumping into the rebranding process, reflect on what isn’t working. Consider aspects such as your services, target clients, and market position. Understanding what to retain and what to change will guide your next steps. For example, a company could analyse the feedback from its last five client interactions to identify trends that need addressing.

I wanted to keep my name as it has been their form the start of my graphic design journey almost 10 years ago but I wanted to become more focused in both my products, my work flow and my vision.

How Do I Know It’s the Right Time to Rebrand?

The right time to rebrand can surface through various signals. Outdated names or visuals that don't match your desired perception create a need for change. Companies should also recognize shifts in their target market or service offerings as indicators.

With the introduction of "ai" especially into the design world I need to stand my ground plus with so many free "logo makers" so many people are falling in to the trap of cheap but useless logo design so end up turning to people like me in the end but I want to be there from the start!

My Brand's New Identity

So rebranding might seem overwhelming, but it offers a rewarding opportunity to redefine your business. By discovering your essence and effectively communicating it through a fresh name and captivating visuals, you strengthen connections with your audience.

Along with my visuals I hope to refine the way I work after all one of my aims is to help the design side of your business be faff free so I can't be faffing about either!

Ultimately, I hope my rebranding journey reflects my skills as a designer and the goal I aim to create quality and bespoke brand visuals from the get go!

If you want to head down the rebrand path then get in touch victoriarodgers@designwithvi.com

My newly crafted logo representing my rebrand