Before we dive into the value of a semi-custom brand let me explain what it actually is first ;) A semi-custom brand (or pre-made brand) is a brand identity that is not entirely unique but rather customized upon existing design elements from a pre-made design. It may not have the same level of ‘uniqueness’ as a fully custom brand, but it can still feel custom to you and achieve your overall brand needs and goals. Below are a few reasons why they can be of value to you and a good fit.
1. Cost-Effective:
Yes, they are often MUCH lower cost than custom branding. My own custom branding starts at $8,500, but my semi-customs are around $2,000. It allows you to have a professional-looking brand identity without the high costs associated with custom design work.BONUS: You still get to work with a very experienced designer (who’s been doing it well over a decade ; ).
2. Time-Efficient
Designing a semi-custom brand is quicker than starting from scratch. The pre-designed elements can be customized and implemented faster, which is crucial if you need to establish your brand quickly.
3. Consistency
Semi-custom brands include unique design elements that are cohesive within the brand. This helps maintain consistency across your marketing and social media, which is VERY important for brand recognition 🙂
4. Professional
Even though it’s not fully custom, a semi-custom brand still looks professional and well put together. It’s definitely a step above using generic or DIY branding if I say so myself.
5. Adaptable
Semi-custom brands can be transformed to suit your specific industry, niche, or audience. They are versatile enough to be customized to reflect your business’s unique personality and values.
6. New Businesses
If you’re unsure about your brand direction or want to hone in your business style and story, a semi-custom brand can be a good starting point. You can always invest in a fully custom brand later when you have a clearer vision.
7. Scalability
Semi-custom brands can be easier to scale. If your business grows rapidly or changes within the next year, you can make adjustments and add custom elements as needed without starting from scratch.
8. $$ Allocation
You can allocate more of your budget to other aspects of your business, such as copywriting, social media, website design, etc rather than investing heavily in branding upfront.
But, won’t a semi-custom look the same as everyone else?
To be honest, some semi-customs can and do, so doing your research on those who offer them will be important. My semi-custom brands definitely are more ‘custom’ than anything (You can take a peek below at some past examples ;) – Since I only customize a small quantity, the likelihood of it being similar to your own brand style or someone even in your industry is very uncommon.
Not only that, but I try to make the brand elements different for every single one (the monogram, pattern, colors, mockup and stock images, etc).
So yes, the value of a semi-custom brand can be a perfect choice for a lot of new and smaller businesses looking to have confidence and cohesiveness in their brand ;) P.S. I do sell out of my brands VERY quickly, but try to do new drops every quarter!
