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Stories, Strategy & Growth

“If I had asked them what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.”

— Henry Ford

Progress doesn’t come from polling the obvious. It comes from seeing what’s next and building, it with clarity.

The Blevins Creative Group Journal is where we publish original thinking on marketing strategy, brand clarity, websites, SEO, content, placemaking, and business growth. These articles are written from real work, not theory, and they are built to help business owners understand how stronger strategy, clearer messaging, and better digital infrastructure create momentum.

Engage. Inspire. Motivate.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Staging real estate for sale is more than just decorating. A professional real estate agent knows that a house is only as good as its first impression, and many buyers will not even look beyond the home's front exterior. In fact, according to statistics from Realtor.com, 91% of buyers now start their home search online before ever stepping foot into a home in person.</h2> <p class="has-drop-cap wp-block-paragraph">For a home to sell quickly and for top dollar, it is crucial that the agent market the house online through high-quality photos. Professional real estate photographer stagers recommend taking advantage of this opportunity by photographing your home at its absolute best.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7868-1024x683.jpg" alt="Real Estate Photography " class="wp-image-4683"/></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dynamic Duo</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Photography & Staging</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Staging a home or space is not just for residential real estate; it's also used to show off custom homes built by custom home builders worldwide for individuals who want photos of their homes and for corporate and commercial real estate needs.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Professional real estate marketing, whether building, buying, or selling, requires a professional photographer, at the very least. It also requires a professional stager to make properties photo-ready.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, if what you are looking for is professional guidance in staging your home or custom-built homes, contact a home stager who can help you with the process.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you'd like to find a reliable and experienced company that can provide both services, your best course of action is knowing what each service entails. This way, you'll know what results you should expect from them to be happy with their work.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Professional photographic services</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A successful photo shoot for a real estate listing starts with careful planning and ends with final images that are clear, compelling, and attractive. The right professional photographer will tell your story in their photographs, so when it comes time to hire that professional photographer for the job, remember there are some key factors to look out for:</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Experience</strong>. Always ask how many house listings, commercial real estate, they've photographed before - </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Be sure to also ask about the professional stager; their experience is just as necessary. If possible, go with a photographer who is familiar with both marketing images and staging images. This person will have an easier time making your listing stand out from others in its market category.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Flexibility.</strong> Photographers have two primary ways of working: they are either willing to work within your schedule or need you to follow theirs. It's helpful if you're able to provide them with as much notice as possible - this way, there won't be any last-minute cancellations on your end. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">However, in some cases, a photographer will need a bit more advanced planning to get the shots they want in time for when your house is shown. In that case, you can either try finding someone else or go with their schedule knowing that it may have an impact on how much notice you're given.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Pricing.</strong> There are two ways to price professional photography services: by the hour and by the shoot (flat fee).</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Going with the hourly rate means having less control over your budget, but paying per shoot means needing to do everything necessary beforehand so as not to run over costs (ex: make sure there's no clutter and all furniture is at the correct angles, etc.).</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Some photographers offer a combination of both options - this way; you'll get more for your money.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stagers</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A stager will bring in furniture from a store or from their own collections, which may help get rid of or maintain some of the clutter in your home. The furniture brings out a sense of orderliness and beauty to your otherwise less appealing home. The stager helps make the rooms warm and welcoming by using accessories, paint colors, art pieces, and textiles.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-style-large is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>"A master bedroom will be made more romantic while the dining room speaks luxury with its chandeliers and painting frames being replaced by silver candlesticks and vases filled with flowers."</p></blockquote> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4636-Edit-1024x683.jpg" alt="Real Estate Photography" class="wp-image-4682" width="534" height="356"/></figure></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A stager also creates the illusion of space by playing with textures, colors, lighting, and furniture. An excellent stager will make a small room look larger than its original size by applying certain tricks in its design process. The entryway is more welcoming by adding vintage luggage or plant containers that draw attention to the house number or welcome mat. A kitchen is shown in its best light using shiny cookware, while the living room looks clean and organized with minimal furniture items in earthy tones.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The professional photographer who has done this kind of service many times before will know what shots you want for your home's website or listing in MLS. He will help you get rid of personal belongings like family photos, trophies, and souvenirs. Anything that does not go with the room's overall feel must be removed before the photoshoot begins. The professional photographer will use soft lighting, so your home looks bright and airy, which is vital for an outdoor shot, especially if your house is surrounded by greenery or flowers.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">They will also know the best angles of each part of your home. They can make a living room look larger than it is by giving it high ceilings where possible or showing its spaciousness using an open concept design. A master bedroom's scenic view will have to be featured in at least one picture, while outside shots are taken for homes nestled by lush vegetation or water bodies.</p> <figure class="wp-block-gallery columns-3 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"><ul class="blocks-gallery-grid"><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/7295F3D8-E18A-4BEC-AB7B-96258D73A5B4-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4688" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/7295F3D8-E18A-4BEC-AB7B-96258D73A5B4.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/7295f3d8-e18a-4bec-ab7b-96258d73a5b4/" class="wp-image-4688"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_9445-1024x768.jpg" alt="" data-id="4690" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_9445-scaled.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/img_9445/" class="wp-image-4690"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4533-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4691" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4533.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/_dsc4533/" class="wp-image-4691"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7881-683x1024.jpg" alt="" data-id="4685" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7881.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/dsc_7881/" class="wp-image-4685"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7807-1024x705.jpg" alt="" data-id="4684" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7807.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/dsc_7807/" class="wp-image-4684"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7868-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4683" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7868.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/dsc_7868/" class="wp-image-4683"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4636-Edit-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4682" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4636-Edit.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/_dsc4636-edit/" class="wp-image-4682"/></figure></li><li class="blocks-gallery-item"><figure><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4573-1024x683.jpg" alt="" data-id="4681" data-full-url="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC4573.jpg" data-link="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/real-estate-photography-improve-the-value-of-your-property-or-service/attachment/_dsc4573/" class="wp-image-4681"/></figure></li></ul></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">On a budget?</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/IMG_9445-1024x768.jpg" alt="on set real estate photography Raleigh NC" class="wp-image-4690"/></figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, many individuals may want to sell their homes without making too many changes, like painting walls or knocking down walls, then hiring a photographer and stager might be necessary. The selling points about your home will have to come out naturally through the photos instead. This way, potential buyers can easily see what makes your place desirable and how it can benefit them.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The aim of staging a home for sale is to create the right environment to invite potential buyers into the space and increase comfort, making an impression of value.</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Roadblocks can stand in the way of success when it comes to effective staging. If your budget is limited, you can overcome it by learning some tips and tricks of the trade on a shoestring budget.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/DSC_7881-683x1024.jpg" alt="staging real estate for sale " class="wp-image-4685" width="410" height="615"/></figure></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Here are seven valuable tips for avid home stagers who have limited budgets:</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tip #1 –</strong> Use what you have. For example, set up a seating area with an ottoman as a coffee table and a couple of chairs.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tip #2 – </strong>Let natural light in. Open windows and pull back curtains, allowing the sunshine to brighten up the home.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tip #3 –</strong> Use inexpensive textiles; as you may not be able to afford rugs or expensive sofas right now, you can choose less expensive options like area runners, wall hangings, and window treatments that will dress up a space for your budget.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tip #4 –</strong> Dress up the front door. Use accent pieces to create a focal point and add appeal at the same time.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tip #5 –</strong> Think about curb appeal. Make sure everything is tidy and clean, including the driveway and sidewalks. If necessary, put out flowerpots or plant a garden.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tip #6 –</strong> Make your space unique by adding an extra element like a vintage suitcase to store bed linens, or tie all of the colors in the room together with a throw pillow with bright geometric patterns.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tip #7 – </strong>Use what you have creatively. For example, use plates as picture frames and old mason jars for storing pens and pencils.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">So, as we have heard the old saying go, "one man's trash is another man's treasure."</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">By adding a few key elements without spending too much money, you can transform any house into an inviting home that potential buyers are sure to love. Never skimp on the professional photographer part; you can save money on your budget by using items you already have for staging your home or space to make it look more inviting. However, professional photos are a must to capture the value of the area.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">You may be tempted to bring along your camera and take pictures of your house, but the results will not be as satisfactory, especially for those that need to use photos in their Airbnb or VRBO listing. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">There is a reason why professional real estate photographers and stagers exist, and it is because you won't get the right photo unless they are involved in capturing the best angles of your home.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Professional marketing services </strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">As far as professional marketing services, whether you choose one service or both, make sure that your real estate marketing company is looking out for your best interests. A good agency will want to provide you with information on how they plan to market your home, neighborhood, and commercial real estate. If the company isn't willing or able to talk about what they can offer, chances are you're better off finding someone else.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/photography/">www.blevinscreative.com</a></p>

Real Estate Photography, Improve the value of your property or service

Staging real estate for sale is more than just decorating. A professional real estate agent knows that a house is only as good as its first impression, and many buyers will not even look beyond the home’s front exterior. In fact, according t…
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Stories, Life, and Memories!</strong></h2> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Every single day we walk through life—we live it. We live out our own stories as we interact with those around us and as we choose how to spend our free time. Sometimes alone, sometimes surrounded by friends or loved ones, often some combination of the two extremes. Storytelling is intertwined with our daily lives.</h1> <p class="has-drop-cap wp-block-paragraph">Amidst this mixture of experiences and interactions, during our fits and starts of daily activities; in moments taken for granted or cherished forever in memory—our minds are ever keen on gathering information to mold ourselves into stronger individuals, better able to cope with the future when tomorrow finally comes for each one of us despite today never happening quite as you imagined it.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Our brains don't work without a story to tell about everything that happens. Some are mundane; some are epic! We are what we make of ourselves based on our brains' stories about the world around us and each interaction with it or another person. The strength in these stories gives us the opportunities to learn, grow, and achieve greatness beyond imagination.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Our lives become defined by our memories—not just those of great moments but also important ones. We must remember that no matter how hard we work or how much effort we put into anything, there can be no memory of it without a story. So next time you step up to bat, consider your story:</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">What will people who knew you say?</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Will they laugh at your failures and cheer your successes?</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Do you even want them to?</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/article/when-building-a-brand-dont-go-for-second-best/" data-type="post" data-id="4241">Storytelling</a> is not just for Fairy tales</strong>.</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Once upon a time, there were no brands. Companies produced stuff and sold it as best they could before their competitors knocked them off the shelf.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">I know you're thinking, "That sounds awful." And, well, you're right. It was pretty rubbish. However, that's just how it used to be - and now we have brands. And we can thank storytelling for that.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">You see, back in the day, your only form of advertising was a billboard and a newspaper ad (if you were lucky). That meant you were competing with every other business doing the same thing. The result? More or less, all companies produced similar products, and consumers couldn't tell them apart.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Why-good-stories-are-key-01-1024x691.png" alt="Storytelling " class="wp-image-4623"/></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Enter branding. </strong></h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">By spending money on <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/is-branding-an-art-science-or-a-little-bit-of-both/" data-type="post" data-id="4477">brand building</a>, companies invested in their future success by creating a story around the products they sold. And it worked - to this day, stories still move people. They are even part of how we communicate our sense of identity with others - i.e., "I'm an Apple person" or "I'm a socially conscious dude."</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/story-board-778x1024.jpg" alt="Storytelling Storyboard " class="wp-image-4629" width="398" height="521"/></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>That's deep for breakfast. But it works.</strong></h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">People want to relate to what they buy and be part of something bigger than themselves - this is true whether they're conscious of it or not. I bet you do it yourself with at least one brand. And if you don't, I bet you like the brand (or hate it) for a reason.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, what do you need if you want to make sure your company is successful in today's consumer-centric market? Well, more than anything else, it's a great story! And that's not only because of how we communicate with each other and how we think but also how we make decisions (it's why <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/storytelling/things-we-love-about-road-trips/" data-type="post" data-id="4055">your parents</a> want you to stop buying clothes and read more).</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">You see, when it comes down to making a purchase, consumers use emotions or rational processes. The former is based on how information makes them <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/services/" data-type="page" data-id="6">feel</a>, and the latter focuses on logic and practicality.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mind Tricks (Ration vs. Emotion)</strong></h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Ration vs. Emotion may sound a little complicated, but it's not. The best example is how people buy cars. Think about your last car purchase, and you'll realize that the process probably went something like this:</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">1. Look for a car (rational)<br>2. Find one I like (emotional)<br>3 Familiarity - do I know anyone that has one (logic and practical)<br>4. Cost - how much can I afford (logic and practical)<br>5. Color - do I like it (emotional)<br>6. Extras - should I get the automatic/sunroof/upgrade package (emotional and logic + practical)?<br>7. Decision made (emotional)<br>8. Purchase (rational)</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">That was probably an over-simplified version of how you got your shiny new set of wheels, but it demonstrates that people don't just consider the rational aspects of a purchase. They also allow emotions to drive them through the process, which is important because research has shown that emotional decisions are the best predictor of future behavior.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/logical-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4634" width="405" height="405"/></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>How does it relate?</strong></h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">So how does this relate to you? Well, getting your audience to make an emotional connection with your brand is the difference between you being a flash in the pan and having them return again and again (and spending that hard-earned cash).</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, if you want your audience to connect with your brand emotionally, you must tell them a story. And that's the beauty of it - it doesn't even have to be original! Just make sure your audience is there with you at every stage.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, for example, when you're writing an advertisement or content marketing piece, make sure they are learning something about the product they wouldn't know otherwise. The ad could talk about how much room there is in the boot or what features make it a safer drive in the car example.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">That way, you give them information that they can relate to and become more <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/services/" data-type="page" data-id="6">emotionally invested</a> in your product.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For your brand, if you want something a little more cohesive - don't just advertise through various outlets; try creating a multi-platform campaign. People are always on their phones or listening to the radio. So, if your audience is a captive one, you can get them invested in your product by giving them information at every stage of the purchasing process.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In short, companies have been <strong>telling stories</strong> for years to grab their <a href="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/case-study/hurst-home-company-case-study/" data-type="post" data-id="1420">audience's attention</a> and invest in their brand. But today, people don't just want to be told a story - they want to be part of it too. That's why storytelling is an important marketing tool for your brand, and great storytellers can make or break a company.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>This is your story, and it's important to you.</em></p>

Why good stories “storytelling” is the key to your success!

Stories, Life, and Memories! Every single day we walk through life—we live it. We live out our own stories as we interact with those around us and as we choose how to spend our free time. Sometimes alone, sometimes surrounded by friends o…
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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Marketing to multiple audiences is challenging. It's not just a simple one-word shift, but it requires action and change that can sometimes be difficult to implement—especially for those who have been doing it successfully for many years. It means looking at you’re marketing from a different perspective.</h1> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">However, with the help of some tools and resources, it is possible to expand your brand and still achieve success.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Branding with Authority</h2> <p class="has-drop-cap wp-block-paragraph">If you aren't already established authority in the industry or niche you are targeting, it can be challenging to get results right away. However, there is no need to panic! With a bit of research and by looking at your competition, you can determine where you stand in the market. Once that is determined, it's just a matter of taking action to improve your authority over time. This could be easy for some, but others may find it more difficult than they expect. So, if this sounds like you or anyone in control of your business, don't worry! Take it one step at a time.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Start by creating blog posts, articles, videos, social media updates, etc., to increase your authority in the beginning while also promoting your brand or product. This will help you determine how successful your marketing efforts are over time and any areas you need to improve on.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Brand Marketing the Product (The Art of Branding)</h2> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Branding has always been an essential aspect of creating successful marketing campaigns for products. However, with the power of technology and social media updates, it is possible to take branding to a whole different level than it has ever been before.<br></li><li>Promoting your product is fine, but this doesn't mean you are branding it the right way. Many people assume that because they have a website or social media account technically means they are branding their products the right way. However, unfortunately, it takes more than that to stand out in today's day and age.<br></li><li>To indeed have an impact on your audience, you need to be yourself. If you aren't true to who you are as a person or as a company, it will never translate well with the people who follow you or those you are targeting. So, take time to truly understand your target audience, as well as yourself and your product, to brand it from start to finish successfully</li></ol> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Brand Influencer Marketing</h2> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>To reach a broader range of people interested in your product or service, you need influencers. That means getting out there and finding the right people that will help promote your brand with the help of their following.<br></li><li>Influencers come with different price points and benefits to working with them, so do your research before you start considering certain people or companies for this position. You want to make sure that they are relevant to your target audience and relevant in terms of what they can offer you and your company.<br></li><li>When you find the right person for the job, don't forget to get creative with promoting it. This could be through a giveaway or campaign that will help attract attention and new followers to you and your brand while making an impact on their lives and yours as well.</li></ol> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"> </h3> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Brand Target Audience Demographics (The Science of Branding)</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Growing your brand isn't just about getting more people to follow or like what you post or share online. It's also about reaching out to the right audience to give them exactly what they need from your company, product, etc. That means looking at your target audience demographics, which is a fancy way of saying 'who you are targeting.'</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/charts-of-branding-1-1024x833.jpg" alt="Branding Marketing " class="wp-image-4494"/></figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This includes looking closely at the numbers, including age, location, occupation, etc., to get an even better idea of the type of people you are trying to reach. This will help determine what type of marketing efforts are best suited for these individuals to be achieved quickly and effectively over time.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Once you have demographic information about your target audience, it becomes easy to create new marketing strategies that will get their attention once again while making them feel involved with your brand or product. That is all market research is! So, take advantage by getting creative with your efforts while not forgetting about essential aspects such as demographics and what you can do for them to make a real difference.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Knowing Your Competition (The Science of Branding)</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Just like we talked about market research, you need to know who your competition is before you even attempt to create a brand identity that sets yourself apart from them any other company or product. This means knowing who they are and understanding the types of marketing efforts they use and their target audience.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Whole Lot of Both:</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Strategy -</strong> What aspects should stay consistent to attract the desired customer base while bringing enough of that interest to keep them coming back for more? The "whole lot of both" approach combines marketing strategies to give clientele a greater understanding of what it takes to build an iconic brand. It's not just about attracting a following to a website; it's about showing them you care and provide value to their lives.</p> <div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Brand identity is so crucial because the modern consumer can choose from countless options for specific products. Whether your audience is young or old, you must ensure they can connect with your brand before purchasing, so for that connection to happen, you must appeal to their emotions just as much as their rational side by being relatable and meeting your business goals.</p> </div> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-right is-style-large is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong>"A great strategy is a combination of both art and science,</strong> <strong>not just one or the other."</strong></p></blockquote> </div> </div> <p class="has-drop-cap wp-block-paragraph">There are many underlying factors that companies take into consideration when building a successful brand identity today, such as color schemes and fonts: "The right colors convey an emotion which can make all the difference in how consumers perceive and react to a product (or service)." The last thing you want is to be perceived as boring or dull by your target market because then it's game over, no matter how good a product you have.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For some companies, building their brand identity is not just to generate revenue but also to establish their name in an industry that may be competitive with other brands. When creating a unique brand experience, companies are more likely to get noticed by potential clients who can quickly lose interest when visiting websites that don't appeal to them. As stated before, the overarching goal is to connect with your audience on multiple levels so they can become loyal customers. This will often lead to higher conversion rates and greater profits once they are converted! "A great strategy is a combination of both art and science, not just one or the other."</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Having a well-defined branding strategy is helpful when we look at these three questions:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>What is your business's mission and vision?</li><li>What do you want to accomplish for your customers, investors, and employees?</li><li>How will your company be different than competitors?</li></ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Logos</strong></h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">These then help define the characteristics of who you are. A good example would be the <strong>logo. </strong>The image should represent every aspect of what you're all about and convey that in just one picture. So having some consistency across these items will help give an identity to your brand. With this, you can establish trust with consumers while understanding what ultimately defines them as a brand.</p> <div class="wp-block-group"><div class="wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow"> <div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow" style="flex-basis:100%"> <div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Here are three basic rules that brands should follow to help establish a strong brand identity:</h4> <hr class="wp-block-separator is-style-wide"/> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Stay consistent. </li><li>Let your personality shine through. </li><li>Don't overcomplicate it.</li></ol> <hr class="wp-block-separator is-style-wide"/> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> </div> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow"> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Your color palette, font, and tone should all be used consistently across different media forms such as social media, website design, etc. This will allow consumers to adapt more quickly to the company while helping them feel more comfortable with what they are seeing. For example, one of the most successful brands out today is Coca-Cola, which extensively uses its colors in its logos across its product line. Another great example is IKEA which has repeated the same image of an older-looking family for almost 40 years!</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Having this consistency allows people to identify what you stand for quickly. For the personality, this is where you let your creativity take off. If there are specific characteristics about your company that define it as being innovative, creative, etc., show it in a way that will attract your target market. Just because you must follow some rules doesn't mean it has to be boring!</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Making sure not to overcomplicate things are just as important as anything else. Remember when Apple first released their simple logo with just their name on an apple? And now look at their logos today! There are so many changes that they made but still considered what made it successful in the past and modifying it for future use. Creating an "iconic brand" is all about keeping things simple while adding the necessary tweaks to ensure it stays fresh and relevant.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Since brand identity is so important, there are a lot of existing factors that can help support your branding strategies:</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">• <strong>Custom logos: </strong>If done correctly and with the same principle above, it can help build a brand. If you want to be serious and professional, avoid cartoon-like images that may try too hard to keep your audience's attention.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">• <strong>Website design: </strong>Whether it's a landing page or an extensive microsite (brands like Coca-Cola have), make sure it fits your necessary branding guidelines such as colors, fonts, logos, etc. This will help establish an image for users before they even see any content on the site! Just like print advertising goes hand in hand with TV ads, a website should go hand in hand with social media platforms to convey a message across every different platform.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">With everything that goes into branding, it takes a lot of communication and coordination across the company. Whether you call yourself an art director or designer, don't forget about all these factors while establishing your brand identity!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Conclusion:</strong></h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">As stated above, it is crucial to keep your brand consistent across all digital and physical media you use (and even in the office!) while still incorporating characteristics that define your business and will attract people to you! Let's keep in mind that many factors are involved in building a solid brand identity, such as color, fonts, logos, and even your website design, so remember to involve all parties when creating a brand strategy.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>

Is Branding an Art, Science, or a little bit of Both

Marketing to multiple audiences is challenging. It’s not just a simple one-word shift, but it requires action and change that can sometimes be difficult to implement—especially for those who have been doing it successfully for many years. It…
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tobe Hooper was one of the most influential horror directors of the 20th century.</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Many in and out of the industry widely considered his 1974 directed film, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, to be regarded as one of the most notable and most incredible horror films ever made, and that horror film has had a massive influence on the genre over the decades and influence on the 1980s slasher era.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hooper began his film industry career as a sound editor and assistant director on low-budget exploitation films. Hooper's other films include 1974's Eaten Alive and 1982's Poltergeist. He also directed several episodes of the X-File, Stephen Kings Salem's Lot, The Equalizer, and Masters of Horror.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hooper was born in Austin, Texas, in 1943. He began his career making commercials and industrial films before moving into directing features. His first feature film was1972's Eggshells, a low-budget psychodrama about a mother who slowly goes insane. Hooper followed this up with The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, which became an instant cult classic. The film, however, would be banned in several countries and caused controversy for its graphic violence.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Chainsaw Massacre</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite the controversy, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre was a huge success, and Hooper quickly became one of Hollywood's most sought-after horror directors. He followed up the film with 1974's Eaten Alive, a cannibalism-themed horror movie starring Marilyn Burns and Allan Arkush.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a 1974 American horror film directed by Tobe Hooper, and the film leading actors were as follows: </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Marilyn Burns, Paul A. Partain, Edwin Neal, Jim Siedow, and Gunnar Hansen. Tobe Hooper's Chainsaw Massacre is considered one of the most influential horror movies.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The classic horror film follows a group of friends who grotesquely fall victim to a family of vicious cannibals while on a road trip through Texas. The film was marketed based on a true story to attract viewers, though the events it depicts are mainly fictional.</p> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <figure class="wp-block-pullquote has-small-font-size"><blockquote><p>The Texas Chainsaw Massacre was released to many mixed reviews but was a huge commercial success, grossing over $30 million at the box office. The horror film has since become one of the most influential horror films of all time and has been ranked by several critics in the genre as one of the greatest horror films ever made. </p></blockquote></figure> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://www.blevinscreativegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/texas-chainsaw-725x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-4933" width="372" height="526"/><figcaption>Poster Features: Leather face Jedidiah Sawyer wielding a chainsaw.</figcaption></figure> </div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In the year 2005, the Library of Congress selected the film The Texas Chainsaw Massacre for preservation in the United States National Film Registry as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The film spawned a franchise of seven sequels and a remake.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The franchise includes the following: </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Leatherface, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2, Texas Chainsaw 3D, Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III, Texas Chainsaw 4: And also, the following: </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Next Generation, The Return of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Leatherface.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">They're Here!</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hooper then directed the classic supernatural thriller Poltergeist, produced by Steven Spielberg.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A poltergeist is a ghost or other supernatural entity responsible for physical disturbances, such as noise, movement of objects, and sometimes even attacks on people. The word "poltergeist" originates from the German words "poltern" (to knock) and "Geist" (ghost or spirit).</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Poltergeists are often associated with a particular person, usually a teenage girl or young woman. It is thought that the Poltergeist is using the person as a focus for its energy or that the person may be subconsciously causing the disturbances. In either case, the poltergeist activity stops when the person leaves the area.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Over time there have been many reports of poltergeist activity, but it is challenging to investigate these claims scientifically. Some scientists believe poltergeist activity may be caused by psychological factors, such as stress or repressed anger. Others believe that poltergeists are real but that they are very rare.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">On August 26th, 2017, film director Tobe Hooper passed away at 74. While his career spanned over four decades, Hooper will always be remembered as a master of horror.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hooper's death shocked the film world, as he was still an active director at the time of his passing. His most recent project was the 2017 sequel "Leatherface," which was a return to the "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" franchise that Hooper helped create.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001361/" target="_blank" data-schema-attribute="about" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tobe Hooper</a> created and directed some of the most iconic films in the genre. His movies are still hugely influential, and his legacy will continue to be felt and heard for many decades. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Mr. Hooper will be remembered for his visionary work and ability to scare audiences like no one else.</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><strong><em>"No matter where you're going, it's the wrong place." </em></strong></p><cite><strong><em>Tobe Hooper</em></strong></cite></blockquote>

Master of Horror

Tobe Hooper was one of the most influential horror directors of the 20th century. Many in and out of the industry widely considered his 1974 directed film, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, to be regarded as one of the most notable and most i…
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pinpoint your Personality!</h2> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">The one thing that pretty much every company needs is branding. Without it, you're running around in the dark, hoping somebody buys your product/service while having no idea who they are or why they would want to buy from you. Branding gives companies a face and puts a name to the products or services they sell.</h1> <p class="has-drop-cap wp-block-paragraph">Even if you don't have a brand, your company should look professional and clean. Your logo should be simple enough for people to remember easily, but not so simple that it seems completely generic. Several websites have logos that anyone can go onto and purchase, but first, you must decide what your company is going for.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you want a modern logo, go with one that has some circle or square around it. If you're looking for something more traditional, go with the typefaces and colors that are more on the conservative side.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you like the idea of having your logo, you must know what the different parts of the logo mean. For instance, there is always an image used in all symbols. This image should represent whatever business you're in or whatever it is that you do. You can also put your initials in the logo if you don't want it to be so literal.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Logos</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">When designing your logo, it should be simple but also unique enough so people will recognize it as yours. If somebody says, "oh! I love what XYZ company did with their logo," you don't want to have to say, "what logo? That looks like every other generic logo out there." Make your company stand out.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Once you pick the colors and font, do not stray from it! This goes back to knowing your target audience to understand what you want the logo to say and look like. If you pick a color scheme, make it consistent across your branding (business cards, posters, etc.)</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">It is also essential that when creating your logo or picking one that you don't use any clip art or images that could be offensive in any way. Also, it's a good rule of thumb to keep your logo on the smaller side. It looks better that way and will also help with its recognition.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Next time you need a new business card or another branded item, make sure the branding is consistent and top-notch!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Does the Branding Say to Your Target Audience?</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Overall Appearance</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Basically, branding is the promise, unique to your business and your business alone, that you have made to your target audience</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">How you have branded your company is how it will appear to the public and your clients.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Building the Brand</h4> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Building a good reputation with the public and keeping that promise you've made to the target audience is a crucial building block for a strong brand. Keeping promises and building that reputation makes more clients and prospective clients gain trust in you and want to turn to your company for their needs. Creating a brand-new company and building this reputation is crucial to its success.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Your Logo and Tone of Voice: </h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">How you want clients to perceive you, as well as your tone of voice in general. Consistency is key when it comes to the tone of voice and logo. Once you have chosen a specific color scheme, style, and so on that gives your company a confident personality, you do not want to ever stray from that!</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">You can't just pick something you like; your company's brand is the sum of all promises and expectations that you make to your target audience.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Building a good reputation and keeping those promises and expectations with your target audience is one of the most significant building blocks of a strong brand — if not THE biggest — for companies, businesses, and entrepreneurs. Keeping promises builds trust between business owners and their clients or prospective clients.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This builds more clients and prospects over time, which grows your company's bottom line exponentially. A crucial part in keeping promises is understanding what your brand actually 'says' to your targeted market- the value proposition- the commitment you have made to them, usually by way of slogan or tagline on some level: "the ultimate driving machine" -(BMW), "Just do it"- (Nike), "Because you're worth it"- (L'Oreal), etc.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">According to a white paper by Entrepreneur University, a value proposition is a statement of how you plan to help your target audience- what problems you will solve for them. That's not all, though: "To create a successful brand or product, entrepreneurs must understand their target market and be able to articulate the needs of those consumers."</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">To break it down even more straightforward, if your company had a slogan on some level along the lines of "we bring people together" as in Angie's List, then that would be part of your value proposition because your company promises that they can help connect people with products or services that benefit them.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Below is a list that CEOs, small business owners, and entrepreneurs can use to examine their own company's value proposition. Ask yourself what your brand says about the world you aim to build for your target market. Then go back and look at how accurately your brand reflects that vision, according to this list:</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">It's essential to identify these attributes because they'll help you maintain a competitive edge.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Help vs. Hurt</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Businesses that do good (help) can include TOMS Shoes or Patagonia (buys one get one free for charity); tobacco producers or similar companies might analogize businesses that hurt. Ask yourself: does our company promote helping our customers? Or hurting them?</p> <div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow" style="flex-basis:100%"> <h3 class="has-text-align-left wp-block-heading">Price</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Lower-priced brands might be analogized by Walmart (can afford lots of products); higher-priced brands might be compared by Apple (graphics, design, performance.)</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Passion</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Passionate brands might include Harley Davidson (motorcycles for lifestyle); brands that aren't passionate may promote the same product/service for business reasons with less enthusiasm.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Personal</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A personal brand would be like Tom's Shoes; businesses that promote their employees alongside their product or service might reflect this.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Product</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A 'product' brand is basically a give it to you straight type of company. An example of this would be Viking Range Corporation which makes professional-grade home appliances 6) People- Brands that focus on people might include Lululemon Athletica (encourages humanity/community); Walmart might analogize brands that don't.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Planet</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Brands that are planet friendly may include Patagonia or TOMS Shoes; brands that aren't eco-friendly would analogize to oil producers.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Process</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A process-driven company might be compared to Google because of their efficient working style; companies without a process, like some non-profits, might focus on the result instead of how it gets done. 9) Profit - Companies with profit as one of their primary goals would analogize to oil producers or similar businesses; companies without profit goals relate more closely to non-profits looking for donations 10) Price - Low price points can be found in stores like Walmart; high price points would analogize to Apple.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pride</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Proud brands might include Harley Davidson (motors for lifestyle); brands that don't promote pride might be Analogized by the oil industry.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Proven</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Companies with proven products or services may focus on facts and statistics; companies without a strong product/service history will likely focus more on promises than results.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Place </h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Location-based businesses like McDonald's can relate to this attribute; non-location-specific companies like TOMS Shoes do not.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Purpose</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This word relates to companies with a charitable purpose beyond their business model, like John Deere (environmentally friendly) or Patagonia (one item sold = one thing donated); oil producers or similar organizations would analogize companies without a goal.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Purity</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Pure brands might include those that use all-natural ingredients like Burt's Bees; brands that aren't as pure might relate to oil companies trying to market themselves as environmentally friendly.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Quality</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Quality is typically represented in superior technology, performance, or features; non-quality-focused companies would analogize more closely to non-profits looking for donations.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Quantity</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This attribute focuses on the sheer numbers of a company, so examples include Walmart and McDonald's who sell lots of items with low price points; non-quantity companies would be Analogized by organizations like the Red Cross.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rebellion</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This attribute focuses on companies that rebel against established market norms, so examples include Apple with their sleek and stylish products or TOMS Shoes with their one-for-one business model; brands without this type of edge might analogize more to traditional oil companies. 20) Relaxation - Brands that; companies that don't focus on quantity would analogize to non-profits looking for donations or smaller organizations.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Security</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Brands concerned with security might include those focusing on protection like Master Lock; brands not worried about safety would analogize more closely to oil producers.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Savings</h3> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Brands focused on savings might include warehouse stores like Costco or Sam's Club; brands that aren't focused on savings might be analogized to non-profits looking for donations.</p> </div> </div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion:</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Brands with unique personalities can set themselves apart from the competition and establish themselves as a brand worth following. If you have extra time, consider creating a few "personas" or characters that represent your ideal customer, and use them when writing your content to help guide the tone. Remember to enjoy the journey while building that iconic brand persona.</p>

The Personality of Branding

Pinpoint your Personality! The one thing that pretty much every company needs is branding. Without it, you’re running around in the dark, hoping somebody buys your product/service while having no idea who they are or why they would want t…
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Based in North Tazewell, Virginia, Blevins Creative Group works with businesses, builders, hospitality brands, tourism ventures, artists, and organizations across Southwest Virginia and beyond.

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