From DIY Branding to Design Confidence: My Journey
When I started my first dog grooming business in 2000, branding wasn't even a word in my vocabulary. I had a name — Vita Canis — and that was about it. No colour palette, no ideal client, no visual strategy. Just me, a dream, and a pencil.
How I Created My First Logo (Without Knowing It Was Branding)
I still remember sitting on the floor in my parents' living room, sketching my first logo on the coffee table. I had it printed in black and white — no colour strategy, no font pairing, no visual message. I just drew a head of my Miniature Schnauzer, and added my business name and contact info.
My posters were also black-and-white—hand-drawn dogs, my contact details, and little tear-off phone numbers at the bottom (so clever, right?).... And you know who came to visit me first? The local town police! Apparently, I could put my posters anywhere I wanted. I didn't have a permit to do it! Luckily, I didn't have to pay the fine; I just did a policeman's dog's nails and took most of the posters down.
What I've Learned About Branding Over the Years
The years rolled on. I changed businesses, evolved logos, tried new colours, and rarely thought deeply about what any of it actually communicated. Until I did.
With Vita Canis, my aromatherapy line, I finally started thinking about the feeling behind my brand. But it still took time to trust my voice, my taste, and my eye for design.
And now? I love the brand I've created for this next chapter. My current logo feels like me—creative, individual, vibrant, yet strong and professional. It's playful without being messy and stylish, but not too formal. It reflects not just where I've been but where I'm going.
And if you're just starting out, I see you.
Branding in 2025: Colour, Fonts & Confidence
Trends come and go, but the right choices last. Colour and typography aren't just pretty extras — they communicate. They tell your story before you say a word. In 2025, the world of design is leaning into bold emotion, subtle elegance, and authentic expression. So, what's hot?
Top Colour Trends for 2025:
- Neo-Mint – fresh, clean, modern
- Deep Teal – elegant and mysterious
- Electric Purple – playful and innovative
- Soft Peach – gentle and soothing
- Muted Yellow – optimistic and subtle
- Luxe Metallics – futuristic and luxe
- Earthy Terracotta – grounded and warm
- Saturated Blues – bold and confident
- Colour Gradients & Transitions – fluid, dynamic
- Monochromatic Schemes – timeless and sleek
Top Typography Trends:
- Maximalist Typography – bold, experimental, full of personality
- Serif Revival – classic elegance, modern twist
- Custom Fonts & Handwriting – personal and unique
- Geometric Fonts – clean, structured, modern
- Variable Fonts – flexible and efficient
- Minimalist Typography – less is more
- Bold Contrast Fonts – eye-catching and memorable
Building a Brand That Feels Like You
If you're starting fresh — or reinventing your business — and feeling overwhelmed by colours, fonts, and visuals… you're not alone.
I've been there. That's why I created a brand vibe quiz to help you figure out your unique style. It's super quick, and can give you the clarity you need to take the next step confidently.
Or just start sketching at your coffee table like I did — but maybe skip the police part!
Jitka xx