Creating a brand guidelines template might seem daunting, but breaking it into steps makes the process manageable. Whether you're a small business owner, graphic designer, or marketing professional, having a professional-looking brand guide can significantly elevate your brand.
Step-by-step approach:
Start with the logo: Include different formats (horizontal, stacked, icon-only), usage rules, and spacing requirements.
Define the color palette: Provide the exact codes for print and digital media
Select typography: Choose headline and body fonts, and specify font weights, sizes, and styles.
Add voice and tone: Describe how your brand communicates — formal, friendly, playful, etc.
Include visuals: Show acceptable imagery styles, iconography, and illustrations.
Do’s and Don’ts: Provide examples of incorrect uses to avoid common mistakes.
Use tools like Adobe InDesign, Canva, or Figma to design the document. Ensure the final version is accessible — ideally a PDF and cloud-based version.
A polished Brand guidelines template reflects your commitment to quality. It makes collaboration easier, especially when scaling or working with freelancers, agencies, or partners.