How to Tell a Designer What Kind of Logo You Want
So, you need a logo. Awesome. But when your designer asks, “What kind of logo are you looking for?” your mind goes completely blank.
Don’t worry — you don’t need to speak “designer.” You just need to explain a few key things clearly. Here’s how to do it.
Start With Your Brand Basics
Before talking about colors or fonts, explain what your business actually does.
- What do you sell or offer?
- Who is your target audience?
- Is your brand serious, fun, luxury, affordable, modern, traditional?
For example, a logo for a kids’ toy store should feel very different from a logo for a law firm. Context matters.
Describe the Vibe
Instead of saying “I don’t know, just make it cool,” try describing the feeling you want.
Words help a lot. Think of 3–5 adjectives like:
- Minimal
- Bold
- Elegant
- Playful
- Edgy
- Clean
- Vintage
- High-end
This gives your designer direction without boxing them in.
Share What You Like (and Don’t Like)
This is huge.
Send examples of logos you like — even if they’re from totally different industries. Then explain why you like them.
Is it:
- The simplicity?
- The color?
- The typography?
- The layout?
Also mention what you don’t like. That can be just as helpful.
Talk About Colors and Style (If You Have Preferences)
If you have brand colors already, say so. If you hate orange, definitely say so.
You can also mention styles like:
- Just text (wordmark)
- An icon + text
- A badge/emblem style
- A modern, flat look
- A hand-drawn look
Even rough ideas help.
Be Clear About Where It Will Be Used
Will the logo go on:
- Social media?
- Packaging?
- A website?
- T-shirts?
- Business cards
Usage affects how the logo should be designed.
Trust the Designer (But Give Direction)
You’re hiring a designer for their expertise.
Give them clear input, but don’t try to design it yourself. Instead of saying, “Put a circle here and a line there,” focus on goals and feelings.
Think of it as collaboration, not control.
