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Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

Bio

if you are struggling for the BIG IDEA or need a visual reviewed, let's discuss. Find my body of work at http://specialmoderndesign.com. —I'm a former Creative Director for various design firms in Los Angeles. Back in the 2000s, I decided to work with clients one-on-one skipping the diluted "telephone-game" process. I know what it takes to find that one thing that makes something SPECIAL to motivate purchases.

Give me a brief description of what you are working on and allow me to have a discussion with you to share ideas.

No jargon, No rules... just ideas

Recent Answers

Branding & Identity

Is it ok from a brand perspective to have different color schemes for your logo for different purposes?


Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

If the logo is distinct enough-- I say break the rules. This kind of codification could show flexibility, confidence if done right. I suggest keeping it in the color family-- all cool --- or all warm colors. Maybe charcoal vs black?

Professional Services

If I am trying to start an unlimited design services business, how can I figure out pricing?


Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

Very tricky. I never heard of this. I hope you can work out a profit in there somewhere when you do figure out pricing, Unlimited scares me.

Start-ups

What are some important things to keep in mind before opening a startup?


Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

For a simpler reply, my answer would be branding. This is a way to communicate what you intend to do in a credible way. Learn what the core of the start up is; Where your passion lies as a founder; Figure out what the competition is doing — or not doing; Impress investors and communicate the vision you have. I've seen branding prior to start of business work its magic.

Social Media Marketing

As a freelance marketing, I currently offer a plethora of services. Should I scale back to offer one service?


Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

I like to think of those 'Donuts and Chinese Food Restaurant' hybrids. Can you promote yourself as just a mainstream social media expert? that would be perfect. You can still take other work-- just don't promote it.... I prefer my Chinese food sans donut grease.

Mobile applications

How do I best validate my idea?


Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

show case studies

Naming

How costly is it to develop a name and brand identity for local business?


Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

Here's a tip- when putting your Agreement/Proposal together never say you will DELIVER a name. Word it so they understand they are paying for your CONSULTING on that. (What if they don't like the names?) You are being paid for what you are doing- "Name Consulting". I also add a clause that explains if a name is derived in the course of this project by any other person, you still get compensated for the consulting i.e., time, and ideas you put into it. (I feel like I am writing this too late- anyway-- good luck)

Branding & Identity

Is it feasible to start a company that offers three services under one umbrella?


Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

I love the serendipity of that! I suggest keeping it separate since the industries most likely won't cross over. Start a new brand....name it something "hype" since that is the word you used to describe the new offering. Hypeshot or something fun. Best of luck- if you inspiration: http://specialmoderndesign.com

CEO coaching

Looking to hire a partner to avoid burnout—should I hire within or outside?


Karen Barranco

Brand Identity Design Consultant

I can only say what helped me when I was feeling that way (not long ago). You may have read this book by Tim Ferriss, the 4-hour work week... I have used some of the outsourcing contacts he wrote about and it change my stress level. You would be surprised what can be done for you by someone on the other side of the world.

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Areas of Expertise

Brand StrategyBrandingNamingSmall BusinessBrand developmentLogo DesignCorporate IdentityBranding & IdentityCreative Concept DevelopmentEmotional Branding