The Cloud9 Marketing blog covers trending digital marketing topics, industry tips and advice as well as, resort marketing tactics.

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Horror in Design: The Most Terrifying Branding Mistakes

It’s October, and while you’re getting ready for all things spooky, there’s one type of horror you want to steer clear of—horrific branding mistakes! In the world of marketing, some blunders are so cringeworthy they might as well belong in a horror movie. So, grab your popcorn and buckle up, because today, we’re venturing into the darkest depths of branding fails that left a lasting mark (and not the good kind) on some pretty big companies.

1. Tropicana’s Disastrous Redesign (2009)

Tropicana thought it would be fun to give their packaging a fresh, modern look in 2009. Unfortunately, this well-intentioned makeover turned into a complete horror show. They ditched their iconic orange with a straw poking out for a minimalist design that left consumers scratching their heads. The backlash was swift and brutal—sales plummeted by 20% in just a few weeks, costing the company a whopping $30 million. The horror was so great they had to retreat and bring back the old design. Moral of the story? If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

2. The Gap’s Ghastly Logo Change (2010)

Ah, The Gap—known for its classic American style and… a logo change that went down in flames. In 2010, they decided to switch things up with a new logo: plain Helvetica font with a tiny blue square. The reaction? Fans of the brand were horrified! The new design was slammed as cheap and generic, leading to such an uproar that The Gap scrapped it just one week later. A spooky reminder that even a well-established brand can stumble by not respecting its customers’ emotional ties to its identity.

3. Pepsi’s Endless Rebranding Cycle (2008-Present)

Pepsi seems cursed with an insatiable need to rebrand every few years, and the results are rarely a treat. The last redesign—featuring a “smile” on the logo—came with a jaw-dropping price tag of $1 million and was met with a collective yawn. Pepsi has since resurrected one of its old logos, bringing them back from the dead with a bold 2023 redesign. This new look is a clear homage to Pepsi’s century-old logos. As for the lowercase logo, it will be buried alongside the rest of Pepsi’s retired designs in the logo graveyard. And who knows, potentially raised from the dead to walk in the branding world yet again. Meanwhile, Coca-Cola has kept a steady, consistent brand image that stands the test of time. The takeaway here? When it comes to branding, sometimes it’s better to be a Coca-Cola than a Pepsi. Consistency is key!

4. The American Red Cross’ Drunken Tweet (2011)

You’d think a venerable organization like the American Red Cross would be immune to social media slip-ups, right? Think again! In 2011, an employee accidentally posted a tweet meant for their personal account, revealing they were “getting slizzered” (a.k.a. drunk) on Dogfish Head beer. Although the tweet was quickly taken down, it was too late—the internet had already grabbed hold of the gaffe. Thankfully, the Red Cross handled the mishap with humor and grace, even partnering with Dogfish Head to turn the embarrassment into a charitable opportunity. Lesson learned: Always double-check which account you’re posting from!

5. Schweppes’ “Il Water” in Italy (1990s)

Sometimes, translation errors can be more horrifying than a haunted house. Case in point: Schweppes. When launching their tonic water in Italy, they didn’t realize their product name would translate to “Schweppes The Toilet.” Unsurprisingly, Italian sales didn’t quite bubble over as planned so they quickly changed the name to Tonica instead. This blunder is a solid reminder of the importance of doing your homework, especially when expanding into international markets!

So, what have we learned from these branding horror stories? Always do your homework—whether it’s testing a new design with your audience, considering cultural and linguistic differences, or simply double-checking before you hit ‘send’ on social media. Branding is not just about looking good; it’s about resonating with your audience, building trust, and standing out for the right reasons. Don’t let your brand be the next one haunting the marketing halls of shame. Remember, a little extra caution can keep your brand from becoming a real-life nightmare!

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Feeling a little spooked about your brand’s direction? Don’t worry, you don’t have to face the marketing monsters alone! At Cloud9 Marketing, we specialize in turning your brand from a scary story into a fairy tale success. Whether you’re worried about a redesign that didn’t quite land or a campaign that’s giving off ghostly vibes, our team is here to help! Reach out to us for a free consultation, and together, we’ll ensure your brand shines brighter than a jack-o’-lantern on Halloween night. No tricks, just treats 🎃👻

Get in touch with us today, and let’s take the fright out of your marketing!

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5 Common Branding Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Branding is one of the most critical elements of a successful business. It’s more than just a logo or a colour scheme; it’s how your audience perceives your company. However, many businesses, both large and small, make avoidable mistakes that can dilute their brand identity and impact their growth. At Cloud9 Marketing, we believe that understanding these pitfalls is the first step in building a robust brand. Here are the top five branding mistakes businesses often make and how to steer clear of them.

 

1. Inconsistent Branding

One of the most common branding mistakes is inconsistency. Your brand should be recognizable across all platforms and touchpoints, from your website to social media and even in your internal communications. Inconsistent branding can confuse customers, weaken your brand’s message, and ultimately erode trust.

How to Avoid It: Establish clear brand guidelines that detail your visual elements, tone of voice, and messaging. Ensure that everyone in your organization understands and follows these guidelines to maintain a cohesive brand identity across all materials.

 

2. Ignoring Your Target Audience

Branding is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Failing to understand your target audience can lead to a brand that doesn’t resonate with potential customers. This can result in a disconnect between your brand and the people you’re trying to reach, reducing the effectiveness of your marketing efforts.

How to Avoid It: Conducting thorough market research is a necessity for identifying your ideal customers. Develop buyer personas that reflect demographics, preferences, and pain points of your target audience. Tailor your branding efforts to meet their needs and desires​.

 

3. Branding around a trend

While it’s important to stay current, rushing to every trend can dilute your brand’s identity. Trends come and go, and what’s popular today might be outdated in a few months. This leaves little room to maintain a lasting identity for your business. If your brand is too closely tied to a fleeting trend, you might find your brand becoming lost along with it.

How to Avoid It: Instead of chasing trends, focus on building a timeless brand. Keep your core brand identity grounded in your unique values and mission, and instead, update imagery and marketing graphics to embrace upcoming trends.​ 

 

4. Poor Brand Experience

Brand experience is the foundation of your business; it’s a reflection of how your customers see you and how they interact with your business, from customer interaction to your website’s user interface. Ignoring the brand experience or allowing it to become poor can lead to negative perceptions, loss in capital and high turnover.

How to Avoid It: Pay attention to every touchpoint where customers interact with your brand, from your website’s usability to customer service interactions, ensure that every aspect of the brand experience is easy, thorough and consistent​. Have an open mind to criticism and leave room to grow as a company, customers and investors appreciate honesty and genuine interest in their concerns.

 

5. Lack of Differentiation

In a crowded marketplace, failing to differentiate your brand from competitors can make it appear generic, forgettable and run the risk of legal issues. Your brand needs to stand out and highlight what makes you unique. What is your personal drive for this company, what are your dreams and desires, clients favour brands that can connect with them on a more personal level.

How to Avoid It: “Wear your heart on your sleeve” so the saying goes. Focus on your unique selling points (USPs) and communicate them clearly in your branding; whether it’s superior customer service, innovative products, or a commitment to sustainability, make sure your brand reflects what sets you apart from the competition​.

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At Cloud9 Marketing, we care about the success of your brand. With over 15+ years of experience, we specialize in counselling businesses on the best web and design practices, offering a comfortable and involved experience. Contact us today for a free consultation. 

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Choosing the Right Fonts

Selecting the right font is more than just a design choice—it’s a crucial element that impacts readability, aesthetics, and the overall effectiveness of your project. At Cloud9 Marketing, we understand the importance of typography in creating compelling designs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect font for your next project.

Key Factors in Font Selection

When choosing a font, consider the following factors to ensure it aligns with your project’s goals and audience:

  1. Readability:
    • Importance: The primary purpose of any text is to be read. Ensure your font is legible in various sizes and on different devices.
    • Tip: Test your font in different sizes and formats to see how it performs.
  2. Tone and Style:
    • Importance: Fonts convey emotions and set the tone for your content.
    • Tip: Match your font style with the message you want to convey. For instance, a formal report may require a serif font, while a tech blog might benefit from a sleek sans-serif font.
  3. Versatility:
    • Importance: Your font should work well in various contexts, whether it’s in a headline or body text.
    • Tip: Choose a font family with multiple weights and styles for flexibility.
  4. Compatibility:
    • Importance: Ensure your font works well with other design elements.
    • Tip: Pair fonts carefully. For example, combine a serif font with a sans-serif for a balanced look.

 

A close up of an arrange of letters and marks in different fonts, colours, and coloured backgrounds

Understanding Font Categories

Fonts are broadly categorized into several types, each with its unique characteristics and appropriate usage scenarios:

  1. Serif Fonts:
    • Description: Serif fonts have small lines or strokes regularly attached to the end of a larger stroke in a letter or symbol.
    • Common Uses: Print media, formal documents, traditional websites.
    • Examples: Times New Roman, Georgia.

  1. Sans-Serif Fonts:
    • Description: Sans-serif fonts lack the small projecting features called “serifs” at the end of strokes.
    • Common Uses: Digital media, modern websites, minimalist designs.
    • Examples: Arial, Helvetica.

  1. Script Fonts:
    • Description: Script fonts mimic handwritten or calligraphic styles.
    • Common Uses: Invitations, greeting cards, elegant or playful designs.
    • Examples: Brush Script, Pacifico.

  1. Display Fonts:
    • Description: Display fonts are designed to attract attention and are best used in headlines or short text blocks.
    • Common Uses: Posters, advertisements, banners.
    • Examples: Impact, Horizon.

Two people discussing different font styles and colours for their brand

Practical Tips for Choosing Fonts

  1. Limit Your Choices:
    • Avoid using too many fonts in one project. Stick to two or three complementary fonts to maintain a clean and cohesive look.
  2. Consider Hierarchy:
    • Use different fonts to establish a visual hierarchy. Headlines, subheadings, and body text should each have distinct styles to guide the reader’s eye.
  3. Test in Context:
    • Before finalizing, test your fonts in real-world scenarios. Create mockups to see how your text looks in its intended environment.
  4. Check Licensing:
    • Ensure the fonts you choose are licensed for your intended use, especially for commercial projects.

Summary

Choosing the right font can significantly impact the effectiveness of your project. By understanding different font categories and considering factors like readability, tone, and compatibility, you can select fonts that enhance your design and communicate your message effectively.

At Cloud9 Marketing, we specialize in helping businesses create visually stunning and effective designs. If you need assistance with your next project, contact us today.

Happy designing!

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Keyboard keys with three blue keys featuring disability symbols
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Embracing Inclusivity: Mastering Website Accessibility in Modern Web Development

In the evolving landscape of digital marketing, ‘website accessibility’ is more than just a buzzword – it’s a fundamental principle. Cloud9 Marketing, a pioneer in accessible website development, is dedicated to making digital spaces inclusive for all. This post explores the essence of website accessibility and its profound impact on the digital world.

The Imperative of Website Accessibility:

‘Website accessibility’ refers to the practice of creating digital environments that are usable by people of all abilities and disabilities​​. This concept is integral to accessible website development, ensuring that no user is left behind in our increasingly digital society.

 

Girl sitting on a couch using a red mobile phone with a bionic arm

Case Study: Whistler Adaptive Sports Program

https://wordpress-987329-4167311.cloudwaysapps.com/accessible-website-development/

Key Aspects of Accessible Website Development:

  1. Inclusivity: Central to accessibility is the idea of inclusivity – making every aspect of a website usable by people with a range of abilities​​.
  2. Enhanced User Experience: Accessible websites provide a smoother, more intuitive user experience for everyone, not just those with disabilities. This inclusive approach often leads to improved design and functionality that benefits all users.
  3. SEO Advantages: Implementing accessibility features for websites can enhance SEO. Search engines favor sites that are accessible to a broader audience, making accessibility a smart business strategy as well​​.

 

Man with down-syndrome using a laptop with the support of a lady sitting next to him

Performing a Website Accessibility Check:

Conducting a website accessibility check is vital in ensuring your site meets web accessibility standards. This process involves evaluating your site against established guidelines like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and making necessary adjustments. Regular checks help maintain an inclusive digital space.

Adhering to Web Accessibility Standards:

Web accessibility standards, particularly WCAG, provide a framework for accessible website development. These standards offer guidelines on how to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities, including visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, language, learning, and neurological disabilities​​​​.

 

Scale showing user experience rating and the acronym UX

Implementing Accessibility Features for Websites:

To build a truly accessible website, consider these key features:

  • Alt Text for Images: Ensure all images have descriptive alt text for visually impaired users.
  • Keyboard Navigation: Make sure all site elements are navigable using a keyboard.
  • Readable Fonts and Color Contrast: Use fonts and colors that are easy to read for users with visual impairments.
  • Accessible Forms: Design forms that are easy to fill out for everyone.
  • Captions and Audio Descriptions: Include captions for videos and audio descriptions where necessary.

Embracing website accessibility is not just a matter of compliance but a commitment to universal design principles that benefit all users. At Cloud9 Marketing, we understand the significance of accessible website development and are dedicated to helping businesses create websites that truly welcome everyone.

Sources:

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summer-tourists-in-whistler
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Be the Destination: Strategies to Attract and Engage Summer Tourists in Whistler

TL;DR:

  • Understand the mindset of summer tourists: They want outdoor adventures, relaxation, and unique experiences in Whistler. Authenticity and personalized service matter to them.
  • Leverage digital marketing channels: Use social media, SEO, and targeted ads to attract tourists. Create compelling content to showcase your business.
  • Create memorable experiences: Highlight insider tips, attractions, and use storytelling techniques. Tempt potential tourists to choose you as their ultimate Whistler destination.
  • Implement customer retention strategies: Offer personalized experiences, exclusive deals, and collect feedback. Build loyalty and create a loyal customer base.

Whistler, BC, is a coveted destination for summer tourists seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. As a local small business owner, it’s essential to understand the mindset of these tourists and meet their expectations to stand out from the competition. In this article, we’ll explore solution-based strategies that will help you become the go-to destination for summer tourists in Whistler. From leveraging digital marketing channels to creating compelling content and implementing effective customer retention strategies, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to attracting and engaging summer tourists in Whistler.

Understanding the Mindset of Summer Tourists:

If you want to attract and engage summer tourists successfully, you’ve got to understand what they’re all about. When you think of these visitors, picture people who are looking for outdoor adventures, relaxation, and those one-of-a-kind experiences that only Whistler can offer. They’re all about that stunning natural beauty! What really matters to them is authenticity, personalized service, and creating memories that will stick with them. So, if you want to be their go-to spot for a summer getaway, make sure your business ticks all those boxes.

Leveraging Digital Marketing Channels:

If you’re eager to lure in vacationers to Whistler, digital marketing channels are your secret weapon! Seriously, you’ve got to tap into the power of social media platforms, search engine optimization (SEO), and targeted online ads to reel in those potential tourists. But here’s the deal: you’ve got to create content that really grabs their attention. Show off what makes your business special, like those jaw-dropping landscapes, heart-pumping activities, and top-notch service. Get your audience hooked with eye-catching visuals, informative blog posts, and interactive stuff that gives them a taste of the experiences they’ll have at your place. It’s all about getting them excited and ready to book a visit!

Creating Compelling Content and Experiences:

Here’s the scoop on grabbing the attention of summer tourists. It’s all about crafting a killer content strategy that shows off the absolute best of what Whistler has in store. Think insider tips, those hidden gems, and the attractions that are an absolute must-visit. And here’s the secret sauce: use storytelling techniques to capture the true essence of your business and the mind-blowing experiences it offers. Whether it’s through awesome social media campaigns, super informative blog articles, or mind-blowing video content, your goal is to inspire and tempt those potential tourists to make your business their ultimate Whistler destination.

Implementing Effective Customer Retention Strategies:

Your goal is to keep those summer tourists coming back for more, so building customer loyalty is going to be key for your business. You’re going to want to have a solid customer retention strategy in place to nurture those long-lasting relationships. Think personalized experiences, exclusive deals, and loyalty programs that give them every reason to come back. But don’t stop there! Make sure you’re collecting feedback and really listening to your customers. That way, you can keep improving and surpassing their expectations. When you deliver exceptional service and create those unforgettable moments, you’ll build a loyal army of customers who not only stick around but also become your biggest fans.

 

Becoming the top destination for summer tourists in Whistler requires a strategic and customer-centric approach. By understanding the mindset of tourists, leveraging digital marketing channels, creating compelling content and experiences, and implementing effective customer retention strategies, you can attract, engage, and retain vacationers seeking unforgettable experiences in Whistler. Embrace these strategies and position your business as the ultimate summer destination, ready to provide memorable moments and create lifelong memories for tourists from around the world.

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Whistler Village in the Summer
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Standing Out During Whistler’s Peak Season: A Guide for Local Businesses

Whistler’s peak season is an exhilarating time filled with endless possibilities for local businesses. However, with so much excitement, it can be challenging to stand out from the crowd. In this guide, we’ll explore the key obstacles that local businesses face during this buzzing period. Whether it’s capturing attention, promoting unforgettable events, driving foot traffic, or engaging vacationing families, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and discover practical solutions to make your business shine in Whistler’s peak season.

TL;DR

  • Craft a unique value proposition and share your authentic story
  • Invest in vibrant signage and captivating window displays
  • Promote events through social media and collaborate with local influencers
  • Drive foot traffic by forming strategic partnerships
  • Create family-friendly experiences and utilize technology for engagement

Standing Out Amidst The Summer Buzz

When you find yourself amidst the bustling atmosphere of Whistler’s peak season, it’s no secret that standing out from the competition can be a real challenge. You want your business to be noticed and remembered by customers who truly appreciate what you have to offer.

Craft a Unique Value Proposition (UVP)

One effective way to differentiate your business is by crafting a unique value proposition. Take the time to identify what sets your business apart from others in the area. What unique experiences, products, or services do you provide that no one else can? Clearly communicate this value to your target audience, emphasizing the benefits they will gain by choosing your business.

Take Uber for example – Uber’s solid UVP is its convenient, reliable, and on-demand transportation service that connects riders with drivers through a user-friendly mobile app, revolutionizing the way people travel and making transportation more accessible and efficient globally.

Embrace Authentic Storytelling

Another powerful tool is authentic storytelling. Share the story behind your business – its values, its journey, and the passion that drives you. You could do this by:

  • Hosting in-person events or workshops where you can personally share your business’s story,
  • Displaying storytelling signage or posters within your physical location,
  • Incorporating your business’s narrative into printed marketing materials such as brochures or flyers, or even,
  • Organizing community outreach programs where you can speak directly to local residents about your business and its story.

Creating compelling narratives that resonate with your audience helps them forge a deeper connection with your brand. By showcasing the heart and soul of your business, you’ll stand out from those who only focus on the surface level.

Develop a Memorable Brand Identity

Investing in a memorable brand identity is also crucial. You want to create a visually appealing brand that reflects the essence of your business. From your logo to your color scheme and overall design aesthetic, make sure it captures attention and leaves a lasting impression. When customers see your branding, they should immediately associate it with the unique experiences and exceptional offerings your business provides.

Promoting Summer Events 101

Promoting your summer events and festivals effectively can be quite a headache. You want to make sure your events stand out and capture the attention of your target audience, leaving them with unforgettable experiences. After all, who doesn’t want their event to be the talk of the town?

Harness the Power of Social Media

Harnessing the power of social media can work wonders for promoting your events. Take advantage of popular platforms to generate a buzz and get people talking about what you have in store. Interact with your audience by giving them sneak peeks behind the scenes, offering exclusive promotions, and building anticipation as the event approaches. Social media opens up a direct and interactive channel to connect with your audience, creating a sense of excitement and encouraging them to mark their calendars and join in on the fun.

Team up with Local Influencers

Teaming up with local influencers is a game-changing strategy to amplify your event promotions. Take the time to identify influencers in the Whistler area who resonate with your target audience, and join forces with them to spread the word about your upcoming events. The endorsements and recommendations from these influencers hold immense value and can work wonders in expanding the reach and visibility of your events. By harnessing their influence and tapping into their dedicated following, you’ll draw in a larger crowd and ignite greater interest in your exciting summer events and festivals.

Encourage User-Generated Content (UGC)

To truly make your events stand out and encourage attendees to engage and share their experiences on social media, incorporate interactive elements and create photo-worthy moments throughout the event. Provide designated selfie stations, encourage the use of event hashtags, and host social media contests or challenges that incentivize attendees to capture and share their favorite moments online. By fostering a social media-friendly environment, you’ll enhance attendee engagement and expand the reach of your event online.

Driving Foot Traffic To Your Business

Attracting foot traffic and making your business a go-to destination during Whistler’s peak season can seem like a daunting challenge. With countless options available to visitors, it’s vital to find effective ways to stand out from the crowd.

Invest in Vibrant Signage & Imaginative Window Displays

Capture attention and make a lasting impression by investing in vibrant signage that reflects the unique appeal of your business, instantly grabbing the eye amidst the bustling peak season atmosphere. Craft imaginative window displays that ignite curiosity and inspire passersby, transforming your storefront into an alluring showcase of your remarkable offerings. This visual storytelling approach will attract more foot traffic, convert casual observers into enthusiastic customers, and leave a lasting impression.

Leverage Strategic Local Partnerships

To enhance the impact of your captivating window displays and vibrant signage, leverage strategic partnerships with local businesses. Collaborate with establishments that share your target audience, cross-promote each other, and recommend customers. By expanding your reach and fostering a sense of community, these collaborative partnerships will further increase foot traffic to your business and make a more significant impact during Whistler’s peak season.

Engaging Vacationing Families On Their Summer Vacation

When it comes to creating unforgettable experiences for vacationing families in Whistler, you want to make sure they have a blast and keep coming back for more.

Develop Family-Friendly Activities

A fantastic approach is to develop family-friendly activities that cater specifically to their needs and interests. Think about what would make their vacation extra special and design programs, services, or experiences that are tailored for families. From guided nature walks to interactive workshops or even customized adventure packages, offering activities that the whole family can enjoy will catch their attention and create memories that will stay with them.

Prioritize Convenience and Comfort

Another great strategy is to prioritize convenience and comfort for families. Make sure your facilities have family-friendly amenities such as convenient changing rooms, stroller-friendly pathways, and dedicated areas for nursing or feeding. Consider going the extra mile by offering services like childcare options or exclusive family-oriented discounts. By taking care of their unique needs and making their experience hassle-free, you’ll leave a positive impression and forge lasting connections with vacationing families.

Use Digital Platforms and Technology to Engage with Families

Moreover, don’t underestimate the power of digital platforms and technology in engaging with families. Utilize popular social media channels to share family-friendly content, helpful tips, and exciting recommendations. Encourage families to share their experiences and use relevant hashtags to foster a sense of community. Consider creating a dedicated website or mobile app specifically designed for families, where they can find information on kid-friendly attractions, upcoming events, and services in Whistler. By harnessing the potential of technology, you can enhance their vacation experience and establish a lasting bond with vacationing families.

In Summary

There you have it, a comprehensive guide to help your local business stand out during Whistler’s peak season. By investing in vibrant signage, captivating window displays, and strategic partnerships with local businesses, you can attract attention, drive foot traffic, and create a lasting impression. Don’t forget to leverage the power of social media, engage vacationing families with tailored experiences, and embrace technology to enhance engagement and foster connections. With these strategies in your toolkit, you’ll shine brightly amidst the bustling atmosphere of Whistler’s peak season. Happy thriving!

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Manage Social Media Like a Boss with Only 3 Tools (and all for Under $50/month)

As a boutique marketing agency owner, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to stay organized, efficient, and within budget. That’s why I’ve tried and tested countless online tools to find the most cost-effective options that deliver exceptional results. In this post, I’m sharing my top three affordable online tools that arguably could be your only toolset for complete social media or content management – and all for under $50 a month!

Canva – The Ultimate Design Tool

Canva isn’t exactly unknown – in fact by now, your mom has probably heard of Canva. But the hype is warranted. If you’re looking for an online design tool that delivers professional-grade graphics without needing a design degree, Canva is your answer. This incredible tool is packed with features that allow you to create visually stunning designs, even if you have no design experience. From social media graphics to email headers, Canva’s templates, and drag-and-drop interface make it easy to create beautiful designs that will captivate your audience.

With Canva, you can customize your designs with your brand’s colors, fonts, and logos, making it an essential tool for maintaining brand consistency across all your marketing materials.

Why I love it:

I am a trained Graphic Designer and know all industry-leading software like the back of my hand. But sometimes less is more, and when trying to get content out the door, Canva is the “work smarter, not harder” option for me. I love that you can pre-enter multiple brand guides and easily switch between them. I love how easy it is to access stock photography, design, elements, etc. Plus, the pricing for this tool starts at FREE. Though if you can afford it, the paid plans (starting at $16.99 CAD) offer so many additional features it’s definitely worth it.

Plann That – The Social Media Scheduling Tool

If you’re still manually scheduling your social media posts, you’re wasting valuable time that could be better spent on other tasks. That’s where Plann That comes in. This incredible social media scheduling tool allows you to plan and schedule your posts in advance, saving you time and helping you stay on top of your social media game. Plann That even integrates directly with Canva from within the platform.

Plann That offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to drag and drop your posts, add captions, and hashtags, and even plan your Instagram feed visually. Plus, with Plann That, you’ll never miss a post or forget to engage with your followers again.

Why I love it:

I really like the aesthetic of Plann That. Sure, there are loads of other scheduling software that do the same thing. But as a designer working in Plann That is a delight on the eyes. It’s also not bloated with a bunch of functionality you probably don’t need. But the features that it does offer are super helpful. I love the Strategy feature where you can add your Client’s themes and develop a content strategy. I love how you can visually see how your feeds will look so you can plan aesthetically (this is important to me). And finally, I love the hashtag feature – where you can search for or create hashtag sets that can easily be added to your posts. Plann That starts at $15/month – so if you are just starting out, this is a great cost-effective option.

Dashthis – The Reporting Tool You Need

As a marketing agency, you must be able to provide your clients with detailed and accurate reports demonstrating your services’ value. This is where Dashthis comes in. This online reporting tool allows you to create custom reports that integrate all your marketing data into one place. With Dashthis, you can easily create reports highlighting your successes and showing your clients how their investment is paying off.

Dashthis integrates with all the major marketing platforms like Google Analytics, Facebook Ads, and more, making it easy to gather all your data in one place. Plus, with its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, you can create custom reports in minutes, saving you time and helping you deliver exceptional value to your clients.

Why I love it:

I think Dashthis flies under the radar for most marketers, but it’s a super powerful tool. One of the features I really like about Dashthis is the ability to make year-over-year comparisons. As many of our clients are located in Whistler, it is more important to compare this December to last December rather than month-over-month comparisons, which are the standard (and limitation) for most reporting software. Also, it offers the ability to create custom client dashboards that you can link directly to, making it easy to share with Clients. It’s not as robust as some analytic and reporting software out there – but for the average client, it will be more than enough. Starting at $33/month, Dashthis is a great low-risk option for newbies.

In Conclusion

Canva, Plann That, and Dashthis combined offer a pretty solid and complete toolset for those looking to manage social media or content in general – and are perfect for small business owners, solopreneurs, social media managers, or consultants who are just starting out or don’t have much capital to invest in fancy-pants software. These tools will help you stay organized and efficient and deliver exceptional results to your clients without breaking the bank. Your monthly investment could be as low as $50 per month at the starting prices for each. So, do you need to spend hundreds of dollars monthly on social media management tools to do a great job? No, absolutely not. Of course, those fancy tools do have some serious perks – but unless you are managing several higher-profile clients, the bloat probably isn’t worth the buck.

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The Importance of Colour in Branding
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The Power of Colour in Branding: How to Create an Emotional Connection with Your Customers

The importance of color in branding cannot be overstated. Color has the power to evoke emotion, set the tone, and communicate the right message to your target audience. It is essential for creating a successful brand identity.

Color is one of the most powerful branding tools available to marketers. It can be used to differentiate your brand from competitors, create an emotional connection with the consumer, and convey a message about your company’s values and culture. Whether you’re creating a logo, making a website, or designing a product, color is an incredibly powerful tool for creating a powerful brand identity.

Studies have shown that people make snap judgments about a product within 90 seconds, and up to 90% of those judgments are based on color alone. This means that choosing the right colors for your brand is incredibly important. Different colors can evoke different emotions, from trust and reliability to excitement and energy. Therefore, it’s essential to choose colors that will create the right feel for your brand and appeal to your target audience.

When it comes to choosing colors for your brand, it’s important to consider the psychology of color. Different colors can evoke different feelings. For example, blue is often associated with trust and reliability, while yellow is associated with energy and optimism. It’s important to consider the emotional impact of the colors you choose, as they will create an immediate impression on your customers.

The right color can also help set the tone and mood of your brand. Colors can be used to create a specific atmosphere and evoke certain emotions. For example, a calming blue can create a sense of relaxation, while a vibrant red can create excitement and energy. Color can be used to create the perfect atmosphere for your brand and create an emotional connection with the consumer.

In conclusion, the right color can make or break your brand. It has the power to evoke emotion, set the tone, and communicate the right message to your target audience. Choosing the right colors for your brand is essential to creating a successful brand identity. Consider the psychology of color and the emotions it evokes, and use color to create the perfect atmosphere for your brand.

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How Good UX is Designing a Better Future for Online Shopping

As online shopping continues to grow, so does the importance of having a good user experience (UX) design. From navigating complex web pages to providing customers with the best possible product and service options, UX designers are creating a better future for online shopping.

Good UX design helps customers find the products and services they need more quickly and efficiently while providing them with an enjoyable shopping experience. UX design can also offer customers personalized product recommendations and tailored information, helping them make more informed decisions.

Good UX design can lead to higher conversion rates for businesses, as customers are more likely to complete a purchase when their experience is pleasant and intuitive. UX designers also create a better shopping experience for customers by ensuring websites are secure, fast, and user-friendly.

Good UX design is also helping to make the future of online shopping more sustainable. By providing customers with personalized product recommendations, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and help conserve resources. Designers are also focusing on creating more efficient shopping experiences requiring less energy and resources.

The future of online shopping is being shaped by UX designers creating better experiences for customers and businesses alike. By focusing on creating more efficient, user-friendly websites, designers are helping to create a brighter future for online shopping.

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2022 Graphic Design in Review

Every year, we see certain graphic design trends rise to popularity, and others barely gain traction.  As we move into this hungry post-pandemic world, styles from across the decades are being given a second life. If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve in the world of branding design, it’s important to know which trends are on the rise.

Here are four design trends to inspire your next creative project:

1. Childhood Inspired 90’s Vibes

Let’s go back in time to 90s graphic design for an aesthetic inspired by MTV, 90’s rave parties, Saved by the Bell, bold colour blocks and your family’s first computer. Millennials in particular will feel drawn to these nostalgic digital playgrounds. The typefaces in this decade were eye-catching, to say the least. They were characterized by a sense of not taking themselves too seriously. Perhaps this playful approach had something to do with the Comic Sans MS font, which debuted in October 1994. Its sans-serif script aesthetic captured the carefree approach of the decade.

 

2. Warm and Fuzzy Candy Colors

There are so many ways to ensure that a design is visually appealing and will stand out. Using Candy colours in your designs evokes a playful, youthful vibe. They work particularly well in 3D illustrations and character design. Understanding colour theory is central to knowing the right way to create bold and striking designs with candy colours. Triadic colour palettes will capture your audience’s attention, whether your tool of the trade is web design, animation, illustration, or typography.

 

2. No More Rules With Anti-Design

Whether you love it or hate it, in 2022, you’re sure to start seeing designs that are liberated from traditional design principles. Anti-design is an expression of rebellion – bending, stretching, and re-interpreting the rules of graphic design. The idea runs parallel to the rise of the ‘ugly’ aesthetic in furniture, product, and fashion design. Anti-design requires real confidence and skill, ironically.

 

3. The Human Touch With Doodle Desing

These meandering drawings inject a feeling of bespoke individuality to a sea of sameness. Doing so can bridge the gap between digital tools and the human touch, creating designs that are approachable. Doodle makes your story both powerful and comical. By combining, you have a compelling comic narrative to pique the audience’s interest.

 

4. Bring Stories To Life With Motion Graphics

The world of motion graphics has experienced a big boost over the last few years. While in-person events took a hit throughout the global pandemic, video creators turned to stock footage and animation and began experimenting with motion graphics to come up with fresh ways of delivering content. From subtle in-app motion graphics to looping gifs and animated collages, motion draws attention and brings stories to life.

 

Have fun with design.  If you are looking for help harnessing new techniques, we at Cloud 9  would be happy to get involved!   For help with services like digital marketing, SEO, and content creation, contact us for a free one-hour consultation today.

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