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 […]
Successful female entrepreneurs share their small business advice
Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, accounting for a whopping 99.9% of all businesses in the U.S. and […]
5 curb appeal ideas to make your storefront shine
Like it or not, potential customers do sometimes judge a book by its cover. From your small business signage and […]
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 […]
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? […]
Tips for using outdoor event signs before and at events
Picture this: You’ve pooled resources with several businesses in your neighborhood to co-host a small business block party. Together, you’ll […]
Don’t overlook these 7 unique types of business cards
Every small business is unique, and your business cards should be, too. In fact, the most effective types of business […]
Give your new business a brand boost with custom packaging
In the crowded small business marketplace, your products and your branding are two places where you can stand out in […]
How to select merch for your brand that your customers will love
Imagine your customers walking around wearing a cozy sweatshirt or colorful T-shirt with your logo on the front. Or carrying […]
Stickers for small business: Your complete marketing guide
These days, stickers aren’t just for kids — consumers of all ages love, use and collect them. And as a […]
Barbiecore branding and the rise of hot pink
What comes to mind when you think of pink? Is it the color of frilly dresses, fun cocktails and Valentine’s […]
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 […]
9 best packaging design trends for 2024
As we step into 2024, fresh packaging design trends are emerging, offering new ways for businesses of all sizes to […]
10 inspiring graphic design trends for 2024
Much like the impact of photography on the art world in the 19th century, we find ourselves in the midst […]
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, […]
Breaking down barriers: An introduction to accessible signage
When establishing your small business as a welcoming operation, it’s important to recognize how accessible signage plays a key role. […]
7 modern business card designs to spark your creativity
There’s nothing quite like giving someone a memorable way to remember you and your business. That’s why choosing unique business […]
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 […]