Creating a visually strong first impression of your products is the first step to catching a potential customer’s attention. There’s a lot you can convey with a label alone—it’s the first thing customers see.
Building a Brand
To start designing your label with appeal in mind, focus on creating a cohesive look with colors, shapes, fonts, and a logo that represents your brand’s story. It’s crucial to develop a standard for your business’s visual branding. Use design resources like Canva if you’re just getting started on your own or consult a branding professional to help create a consistent visual standard across all your products. A brand guide will give you a consistent source of inspiration as your business grows and you begin incorporating new marketing, print, and promotional material within your day to day operations. This consistency lends professionalism and helps customers easily recognize your brand. If you’re starting from scratch, create a mood board with words, pictures, patterns, and aesthetics that flesh out your ideas. From there, you can move onto finalizing your logo and more.
Label Material
Next, consider the material and features of your labels. They need to withstand wear and tear, especially if they’ll be exposed to oil, water, or other substances. For example, body butter labels should be oil-resistant since customers’ hands will likely come into contact with them after use. It would be a shame if a beautiful label smeared right after trying the product! As your business grows, you can enhance your labels with textured elements like embossing to add a tactile experience. Even the choice between glossy and matte finishes affects perception, so choose what best suits your brand.
Staying Compliant
Label compliance is crucial. Different products have different labeling requirements. For instance, body care and cosmetic products fall under FDA regulations, while cold process soaps do not. Make sure to research and follow the guidelines relevant to your products. Complying with these standards not only keeps you out of trouble but also shows customers you care about their safety and are an expert in your field. An ingredient list is also essential depending on what you make; this not only ensures you comply with regulations but also showcases your brand’s transparency and commitment to quality. If a large part of your business’s mission is to use organic or ethically sourced materials, highlight this in your ingredient list to build credibility. Customers will appreciate seeing verified high-quality ingredients listed, which reinforces your product’s value.
Final Thoughts
To wrap up, take a moment to observe the labels on everyday items for inspiration. Notice the differences between them and think about what comes to mind when you read them. How do the colors, wording, and ingredient lists on your favorite box of cereal differ from your laundry detergent? There’s a whole world of psychology to branding and labeling that impacts how consumers choose what they buy. You don’t need a degree to observe these techniques when it comes to your own choices! Use what you notice in your pantry, bathroom, and household to influence how you want your products’ labels to be perceived.
