Ideas & Advice
A small business blog with helpful tips, practical advice and inspirational stories.
22-step business start-up checklist
You want to start a business…congratulations! It’s an exciting adventure that is fulfilling, challenging and wonderful all at once. It’s […]
Why your business needs QR codes
Now more than ever, small businesses need creative ways to connect with their customers. Gone are the days of leisurely […]
Business name ideas
Passion. Energy. Courage. That’s what it takes to start a new business in Canada. You have a great idea for […]
Print or digital signage for small businesses — why not both?
Your signage lets the world know that you’re in business — and with custom branded signs, you can show off […]
Stand out from the crowd with these creative business sign ideas
As an entrepreneur with an exceptional offering, it’s no wonder you want your business signage to go stand out from […]
The significant benefits of effective small business signage
Until you start a business, it’s easy to take signage for granted. After all, every time we venture outdoors, we’re […]
Why you still need business cards in a digital world
In today’s tech-charged world, where people carry so much information in their pockets, it’s reasonable to question the value of […]
Business Card Paper
Business cards come in countless shapes, sizes, textures, and weights. Once you’re ready to order your cards, there are several […]
How to use local SEO for small business
As a small business owner, you probably know that it is important to be searchable and accessible online. And prioritizing […]
4 steps to using leave behinds in your marketing
Make a lasting impression – whether you’re replacing a leaky pipe, painting a house or shoveling someone’s walkway – with […]
How referral marketing can boost your business
Would you go to a hairdresser without a recommendation from a friend? What about trusting someone to prepare your taxes? […]
How promotional merch can turn your customers into brand advocates
These days, digital connections offer lots of value to brands — but there’s just something special about engaging with people […]
How to pick effective small business packaging that fits your brand
You deserve packaging that’s as powerful as your products. From shipping online orders to bagging up in-store purchases, packaging has […]
How to market your small business as a new entrepreneur
Marketing materials are often one of the first things small business owners think about when starting their company. Do you […]
Ship it with style: 5 tips for high-impact small business packaging
You know that feeling when you’re expecting a delivery and hear your doorbell ring? Or, perhaps you’re more of an […]
Connect with customers to get the most from small business events
As a small business owner, you know how to tap into your creativity to make the most of a small […]
How to choose a logo for your business
We chatted with Megan Morahan, Creative Director for product creation at Vista, for her insights into what makes an effective […]
Redesign resolution: A new look sparks a brand transformation
MY MARKETING MUST-HAVES Redesign resolution: A new look sparks a brand transformation Estimated reading time: 6 minutes A new year […]
Branding glossary: Key terms every business owner should know
You’ve probably heard the word “branding” thrown around – especially since starting your small business. And though you might have […]
How to create a brand style guide
We chatted with Tristan LeBreton, Creative Director at 99designs by Vista, for tips on creating a brand style guide. Read […]
The best fonts for business cards
Picture this: You open a business card template and type your small business name. It looks tiny against the white […]
5 point-of-sale marketing tactics
Whether you run a retail store or a quick-service restaurant, the checkout experience plays an incredibly important role in the […]
How to pick brand colours using colour theory
Color theory can play an important role in your small business branding. Colors carry meaning, and the colors you choose […]
8 Website Merchandising Tips for Online Storefronts
We chatted with Tristan LeBreton, Creative Director at 99designs by Vista, for tips on creating a website that makes the […]
Get the look: Next-level product packaging
Packaging is just one part of a cohesive brand experience that can boost credibility across your marketing.
How to design a business card: 10 golden rules
A business card represents the next step in making your small business dream a reality. And for many potential customers, […]
Creating the best business cards for your small business
Asking a piece of paper — one often no bigger than several square inches — to represent all that you […]
What we learned: The importance of heritage & a strong brand story
Family businesses are a key part of the small business community. We constantly see small businesses open their doors because […]
How to use the back of business cards: 11 creative design ideas
Your business card contains a lot of essential information about your business. Your logo should be loud and proud on […]
Tips for small business owners when working with designers
We chatted with Tristan LeBreton, Creative Director at 99designs by Vista, for his insights into how small business owners can […]
How to design a great T-shirt
We chatted with TristanLeBreton, Creative Director at 99designs by Vista, for tips on creating impactful T-shirts. Whether for your business […]
Design inspiration: Stylish business card examples
Creating a business card design that won’t get lost in the shuffle, and that will generate interest in your brand, […]