Matt Cecio

What’s your problem? This is the question every designer should be asking at the start of any project with a client. Businesses hire a designer because there is some problem they are trying to solve. Start every project by asking questions until you figure out what those challenges are. Then scope the project based on what they need, not what you want to design.

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A valuable lesson for any designer looking to choose a niche or specific target client type. “ If you want to make more money, be more useful, to people who have more money. “ – Codie A. Sanchez Find the people who need what you have and are willing to pay top dollar for what you can do for them and their business — that they can’t do for themselves.

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The problem with design today isn't the tools - it's the mindset... Somewhere along the way, the value of design got lost in the noise. When design becomes just "making things pretty," we lose the bigger picture: Design isn't decoration - it's communication, strategy, and impact. Here's the truth: Great design isn't cheap because it doesn't just look good. It solves problems, delivers results, and moves the needle for businesses. But how do we fix this? 👉 By reframing the conversation. 👉 By focusing on outcomes, not outputs. 👉 By championing design as a business tool, not an aesthetic one. Let's remind the world that design isn't optional or extra - it’s essential. What do you think? How do we elevate the value of our work? #graphicdesigner #graphic #design #entrepreneur

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✏️ What is one of the most important elements of design? Visual hierarchy. When everything is important, nothing is important. Establish hierarchy to emphasize what you want to communicate. Some ways to do this in typography: ⭐️ Font size ⭐️ Font weight: Try variations of weight of the same font. ⭐️ Font color: Paragraphs of light text on a dark background are harder to read. ⭐️ Spacing: Between lines of text, between letters (don't be afraid of white space, let things breathe!) Using this as a starting point in your design will help get your message across and catch the eye of your audience 💫 #typography #design #graphicdesign #hierarchy #branding

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Consistent failure is the path to success, right lol? Check out some of our past logo designs that just didn’t make the cut 😬✂️❌ #pddesign #brandidentity #brand #branding #visualbranding #brandidentity #graphicdesign #visualdesign #logo #logodesign #atlantagraphicdesigner #graphicdesign #apparel #smallbusiness #atlantasmallbusiness

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This business model is disrupting the design industry. It's called the subscription model. While not groundbreaking, it’s a rarity in the agency world. The process is simple: Subscribe, send project ideas, receive concepts, make revisions, and finalize. It's that easy. This model is designed to deliver exactly what our clients want, faster with turnaround times in as little as 24 hours. Who benefits? ▪ Marketing agencies, print and signage companies, real estate agents and any industry where time is of the essence. These businesses value quality but can’t afford to wait for their marketing materials. Time is money. This model works best for fast-turnaround projects like: ▪ Print collateral, social media posts, and advertisements. However, it’s less suited for larger projects like: ▪ Branding, logo design and brand assets. While the subscription model isn't ideal for every client, it certainly fills a gap in the market. If you’re not already incorporating it into your design business, it’s worth considering for the future.

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There are so many reasons I love working at M Creative, but perhaps biggest is our values. If you don't know much about B-Corp certified companies, check it out (https://lnkd.in/eZfmuUbt) and see how we're one of many using the power of business for good. #bcorp #designforgood #businessforgood

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DESIGN IS WHERE STRATEGY MEETS CREATIVITY Sure, an eye-catching logo is important, but what’s the point if it doesn’t fulfill its purpose? For businesses or events, logo design and branding involve carefully crafting every detail with the end user(s) in mind. Consider how car logos don’t feature illustrations of cars—they use memorable symbols that convey the brand’s essence. Similarly, typography logos, or wordmarks, are just as crucial as icons in creating a strong brand identity. A logo with elegant graphics and a sophisticated color scheme might be visually stunning. Still, it misses the mark if it doesn't convey the brand or is difficult to recognize. Our approach ensures that your logo's beauty enhances its functionality and brand recognition rather than detracts from it. After all, a beautiful logo that’s hard to understand is ineffective. How memorable is your logo? --- 👋🏻 I'm Nancy, Principal Designer of Ruzow Graphics, coach for creative business owners with Creatives Roundtable, and adjunct typography professor at Southern Connecticut State University 💥 I help non-profits, higher ed development teams, and marketing teams with design that connects the dots between your brand and your audience 👉🏻 Reach out if you need a design partner who listens and can help you connect, communicate, and increase your bottom line ------ If you like learning from me... ➕ me on LinkedIn 😊 I post about case studies, customer insights, and the personal development side of business ownership ------ #logo #logodesign #branding #eventlogos #graphics #nonprofitdesigner #highereducationdesigner #marketingdesign Erin Halper, CEO of The Upside

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People remember 80% of what they SEE, compared to 20% of what they READ and 10% of what they HEAR. What to give a gift that increases in value this holiday? Comment below "ready to invest" to get special gift pricing on brand development and a logo for someone who has the next big idea. #brandidentity #logo #graphicdesign #holidaygift #wishlist #startup #appdevelopment #investor #angelinvestor #venturecapitalist #creativedirector

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I recently designed the Summer 2024 edition of "The Infusion Advocate" for the National Infusion Center Association (NICA). Did you receive your copy? Did it look a little different? NICA recently underwent a brand uplift which includes a new font system, simplified color palette, and updated iconography. Print newsletters are a tangible form of communication that brings ideas directly into your hands. Does your organization need a newsletter? Considering updating yours with a new style? Please leave a comment below or DM me to set up some time to how I can help you achieve your communication goals. #graphicdesign #newsletters #IVtherapy #infusiontherapy #marketing

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Building a memorable brand starts with expanding your idea of what a brand is. Let's create a lasting impression together. #smallbusiness #branding #packaging #cpg

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One of my favorite techniques for creating compelling logo marks involves utilizing narrative to ignite the imagination. Each mark is designed with a layered approach to construct a dynamic scene, typically featuring three distinct sections: foreground, middle ground, and background. This method not only enhances visual depth but also enriches the storytelling aspect of the design. These storytelling marks are the ones I'm most proud of, and the one that make me feel the most nostalgic. #logo #logodesign #minimallogo #narrative #storytelling #minimal #modernism #abstractlogo #branddesign #branding #identity #minimalism

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Poster design for a social media post involves creating visually engaging and concise graphics that communicate a message quickly and effectively. Unlike traditional posters, social media posters are often viewed on smaller screens, so they must be optimized for mobile viewing. Key elements include: 1. **Clear Hierarchy**: Use bold headlines and eye-catching visuals to grab attention. The main message or call to action (CTA) should be prominent.    2. **Visual Simplicity**: Keep the design clean and uncluttered. Use a limited color palette, simple fonts, and balanced layouts to maintain focus on the key information. 3. **High-Quality Images**: Whether using photos, illustrations, or icons, ensure all images are crisp and clear to enhance professionalism. 4. **Branding**: Include your logo, colors, and fonts to maintain consistency with your brand identity. 5. **Readable Text**: Since users often scroll quickly, use large, legible fonts, and limit text to short, impactful statements. 6. **Engaging Colors and Contrast**: Bright, bold colors or contrasting tones can help your post stand out in a crowded feed. 7. **Call to Action**: Always include a CTA that encourages interaction, like visiting a website, signing up, or sharing the post. By blending these elements, the poster will attract attention, communicate effectively, and encourage engagement.

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Top 7 CPG Packaging Trends 1. Brands are utilizing clear materials like glass and recyclable plastics to showcase product contents 2. Companies are taking full advantage of these incredible art forms to tell their story and sell 3. Ceramics and natural colors are making a big comeback in CPG packaging 4. Consumers are craving more tactile and sensory experiences 5. Adopt materials that reduce waste and carbon footprints 6. Vintage aesthetic pays homage to this bygone era yet feels fresh and relevant 7. Adding extra details that demand attention on those shelves ---------------------------------------------------------------- Follow me for more such valuable content Click my name + follow + 🔔 #cpg #branding #design

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Running a creative agencies isn't always easy... Technical issues and project delays are inevitable. But we can't avoid these challenges; we can only handle them. Being prepared to tackle technical roadblocks and delays head-on, while finding creative solutions to unexpected problems, is what sets us apart. Always try to turn obstacles into opportunities and show clients that you're not just a service provider, but a problem-solving partner. Stay agile, stay creative, and keep pushing boundaries. 🚀 #AgencyLife #ProblemSolving #Adaptability #CreativeSolutions #BusinessGrowth

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Notice. Exclaim or murmur. Happiness. www.goodallintegrated.com #happiness #notice #exclaim #murmur #vonnegut #graphicdesign #business #solutions #typography #graphicdesignservices #brandingexpert #creativedirection #designstrategy #creative #brandidentitydesign #brandingdesigner

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97% of people search online to find local stores, and in 2024, almost 30% of those searches resulted in purchases. 🤯 ​If you're a local business owner, Google Business Profile is a must-have! Why? ​ • Increased Visibility: Get found by more potential customers. • Enhanced Customer Engagement: Connect with your audience directly. • Valuable Insights: Track your business performance. • Free Marketing: Reach customers without breaking the bank. • Easy Mobile Access: Make it easy for customers to find you on the go. • Simplified Appointment Booking: Streamline your scheduling process. Don't miss out on this free tool!  ​If you have one, make sure your profile is optimized.

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Makeover Monday. When it comes to your corporate identity, typography is a critical element in conveying your brand’s identity, and values. Keep in mind, however, not all designers are good typographers. A good typographer will consider using proper typefaces, kerning (The space between individual characters in a word), leading (The vertical space between lines of text), alignment, and customization of letters and strokes, to name just a few elements. A well-designed logo with unique, hand-lettered type can create a lasting impression on your target audience, helping distinguish your brand from your competitors, and make for a stylish design. Here is a recent brand refresh for BCDaniels.com, a custom commercial and residential home builder. The mark on the left was designed in the 80’s while the design on the right is the refresh mark in use. Notice the unique typographic features all working to communicate the firm’s values. If your business is in need of a brand refresh, call the professionals at Pixallure Design, LLC. Our team consists of branding experts with senior level experience and skills with processes designed to deliver quantifiable end results. That means you can be assured of a successful project. Pixallure Design 251-432-6003 The power to inspire. Pixallure.com #logodesign #typography #logos #branding

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