What to Ask Your Brand Designer: A Real Talk Guide for Small Business Owners
Embarking on the journey to build your brand identity is both exciting and daunting.
If you're wondering what to ask your brand designer before hiring them, you're not alone.
These questions will help you feel more prepared, aligned, and confident in your creative partnership.
01.
What is your brand designer’s process?
No two designers work the same. Some start with strategy, others jump straight into visuals.
Knowing your designer’s process gives you a roadmap - when to expect moodboards, logos, refinements, and sign-offs. It also tells you how much collaboration is involved and when your input matters most.
Tip: Ask what happens before the design begins, do they do research, moodboarding, strategy workshops?
02.
What deliverables does the branding project include?
Beyond your logo, your brand should can come with a full identity system - colours, fonts, design framework rules, and file formats you can actually use.
Think logo variations for socials, a favicon/submark for your site, and if they offer brand guidelines so everything stays consistent.
Tip: Ask for an overview of formats (PNG, SVG, JPG etc.).
03.
How do they handle feedback and revisions?
A good designer welcomes feedback, but every designer handles revisions differently.
Some offer one, two or three rounds, some include more.
Understanding this up front means fewer surprises and a smoother process when you want to tweak or refine something, and most designers, like myself can be flexible around your revision needs (including needed to alter for larger stakeholder groups).
Tip: Be honest about how involved you want to be, do you like to review early drafts or wait for the polished concepts?
04.
Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Beyond the upfront cost of your brand identity project, it’s worth asking if there are any extra expenses that might pop up along the way.
For example, do they charge for additional revision rounds beyond what’s included in your package? Will you need to purchase any licensed fonts or stock imagery?
These costs are usually covered by the client, so it’s helpful to have a heads-up early on.
If your designer is suggesting a custom font or photography, ask what’s included and what isn’t.
Sometimes a stunning brand includes premium assets, just make sure they align with your budget and expectations.
Tip: Be open about your budget early. A good designer will help you prioritise where to invest and where you can simplify.
05.
What's the timeline for the project?
Whether you're launching next month or six months from now, understanding the timeline will help you plan.
A full branding project might take 2–8 weeks (or more), depending on complexity and communication.
A realistic timeline includes space for feedback, development, and refinements.
Tip: Ask if they build in buffer time or set clear milestones.
These aren’t just business questions, they’re conversation starters.
If the chemistry is right, and your values align, you're on your way to a brand that reflects you and resonates with the people you want to reach.
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