Choosing The Right Logo

Amber Tjemsland • January 16, 2025

Stand Out and Build Your Brand with the Perfect Design

Your logo is often the first impression your business makes on potential customers. It’s a visual representation of your brand and plays a crucial role in establishing credibility and recognition. Choosing the right logo isn’t just about picking something that looks nice—it’s about creating a design that reflects your business’s identity and resonates with your target audience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice.


Understand Your Brand Identity. Before diving into logo design, take time to define your brand’s personality and values. Ask yourself:


  • What does my business stand for?
  • Who is my target audience?
  • What emotions or ideas do I want my brand to convey? For example, a law firm may want a logo that communicates professionalism and trust, while a bakery might want something playful and welcoming. Your logo should align with these core aspects of your brand.


Learn About the Different Types of Logos.  Logos come in a variety of styles. Understanding the options can help you choose one that best suits your business:


  • Wordmark: A clean, text-based logo focusing on your business name (e.g., Google, Coca-Cola).
  • Icon or Symbol: A standalone graphic that represents your brand (e.g., Apple’s apple).
  • Combination Mark: A blend of text and an icon, offering versatility (e.g., Adidas, Doritos).
  • Emblem: A design where text is enclosed within a shape, often used by traditional or vintage brands (e.g., Starbucks).


Think about which style aligns with your brand identity and where your logo will appear (e.g., signage, social media, or merchandise).


Choose the Right Colors.  Color psychology plays a big role in logo design. Colors evoke emotions and can influence how your brand is perceived:


  • Blue: Trust, reliability, professionalism.
  • Green: Growth, nature, sustainability.
  • Red: Passion, energy, excitement.
  • Yellow: Optimism, creativity, warmth.


Choose a color palette that reflects your brand’s personality and appeals to your target audience. Avoid using too many colors to keep the design clean and memorable.


Prioritize Simplicity.  The most successful logos are often the simplest ones. A clean, uncluttered design is easier to recognize and remember. Ask yourself:


  • Is the logo clear and readable at all sizes?
  • Does it work in black and white as well as color?
  • Is it versatile enough for both digital and print use?
  • Simplicity doesn’t mean boring—it means focusing on what’s essential.


Work with a Professional Designer.  While DIY tools can be tempting, working with a professional designer ensures your logo is unique, high-quality, and tailored to your brand.


A designer will:

  • Understand your business and translate your ideas into a visual identity.
  • Provide multiple concepts and refine the design based on feedback.
  • Deliver the logo in all the necessary formats for various uses.


Investing in professional design pays off by creating a logo that stands the test of time.


Test and Gather Feedback.  Before finalizing your logo, test it:


  • Show it to friends, colleagues, or potential customers and ask for their impressions.
  • Ensure it resonates with your audience and conveys the right message.
  • Test it across different platforms (e.g., social media, websites, printed materials) to ensure it looks great everywhere.


Choosing the right logo for your business is an important step in building your brand. By understanding your identity, exploring design options, and prioritizing simplicity, you can create a logo that truly represents your business. Ready to take the next step? Contact Blue Hole Design today to craft a logo that leaves a lasting impression!


By Amber Tjemsland April 7, 2025
When it comes to building a successful local business, your logo is more than just a graphic—it’s your first impression. On the Olympic Peninsula, where community values and individuality go hand-in-hand, your logo plays a critical role in defining your local business identity . As a designer who lives and works right here in the community, I stay on top of modern branding strategies while making sure every design reflects the unique spirit of the Peninsula. If you're thinking about creating a logo—or refreshing the one you have—here are five logo design trends that are making waves in 2025: 1. Nature-Inspired Elements Small businesses on the Olympic Peninsula are increasingly embracing designs that reflect our surroundings—mountains, forests, coastlines, and native plants. Whether it's a minimal line drawing of the Olympics or a stylized lavender sprig, logos grounded in natural elements help build a sense of place and authenticity. Why it works: It tells customers, “We’re rooted here.” And for locals and tourists alike, that message builds trust and connection. 2. Simplified, Versatile Icons Gone are the days of overly complex logos. The trend now leans toward clean, versatile designs that work across digital and print—whether it’s a business card, a shop window, or a social media avatar. Think: bold shapes, flat colors, and strong typography. Why it works: A simplified logo is easier to recognize, easier to scale, and leaves a stronger visual impression—especially important for businesses trying to grow or reach new markets. 3. Hand-Drawn & Human Touches In contrast to big-box polish, local businesses are embracing logos with character —hand-lettered fonts, uneven lines, or subtle texture that reflect a human touch. These types of logos are especially popular among cafes, boutiques, artists, and solo entrepreneurs. Why it works: It adds warmth and approachability to your local business identity , helping customers feel like they’re supporting a real person—not just a product. 4. Timeless Typography Typography-forward logos continue to trend in 2025, especially those with classic serif or geometric sans-serif fonts . Clean, well-spaced lettering gives your brand a modern yet timeless look , especially when paired with a simple icon or monogram. Why it works: Great type speaks volumes. It can suggest elegance, strength, fun, or heritage—without needing a complex design. 5. Subtle Use of AI-Generated Concepts Here’s where modern meets local. Some small businesses are leveraging AI-powered design tools for brainstorming and inspiration, then working with a local designer (like me!) to refine the ideas into a professional, unique logo . Why it works: You get the best of both worlds—efficient exploration and customized results. Plus, it helps you make informed choices based on current trends and audience expectations. Ready to Elevate Your Local Brand? If you're a small business on the Olympic Peninsula looking to build a logo that reflects your values and sets you apart, I’d love to help. At Blue Hole Design, I combine modern branding expertise with a passion for our local community to deliver logos that are both memorable and meaningful.  Let’s create something great together! Contact me at amber@blueholedesign.com for a free logo consultation.
By Amber Tjemsland February 25, 2025
Color Psychology