Ideas & Advice
A small business blog with helpful tips, practical advice and inspirational stories.
8 exciting packaging design trends for 2025
The packaging design trends for 2025 are all about creativity, confidence and having a little fun. Whether incorporating clever cutouts, […]
Top 10 graphic design trends to experiment with in 2025
As we approach a new year, fresh, bold and creative graphic design trends are taking the spotlight. Here’s the exciting […]
What is a brochure? The essential guide to the power of the fold
There’s a quiet power to brochures. Whether you’ve picked up a sleek, minimalist product brochure from your local store, casually flipped […]
9 fresh font trends for 2025
As we leap into 2025, the world of typography is bursting with fresh and exciting font trends that promise to […]
7 inspiring color trends for 2025
As we look toward what the biggest design and marketing trends will be for the new year, one of the […]
Tips for small business owners when working with designers
We chatted with Tristan LeBreton, Creative Director at 99designs by Vista, for his insights into how small business owners can […]
Design decoded: The top 12 easy to read fonts
How important is it to choose the right font for your website? With a legible font, your business’ message comes […]
The 7 principles of design and how to use them
The principles of design are the rules you must follow to create an effective and attractive design composition. The fundamental […]
7 top business card design trends in 2024
Based on the up-and-coming business card trends, 2024 is shaping up to be an era of extremes in design. As […]
7 alluring font trends for 2024
It’s a unique, transitional moment in the digital art world. And the 2024 font design trends reflect this. With so […]
9 powerful color trends for 2024
If you’ve ever worn pink to lift your spirits or black to feel confident, you know how colors can influence […]
Ultimate guide to signage design: How to design a sign
The world is saturated with visual stimuli. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of a cold fall afternoon, a brightly designed […]
Peach Fuzz, the Pantone Color of the Year 2024: Everything you need to know
The Pantone Color Institute still knows how to keep the stylish crowd—from designers to fashionistas, marketers to artists—eagerly waiting and […]
How to make a brochure in 7 simple steps
Brochures are a perfect choice to communicate in a concise way what your business is all about. Whether you’re looking […]
Packaging design trends for 2024: an infographic
Packaging design is transforming and evolving like never before. It’s a mix of fresh, bold ideas coming to life, classic […]
Graphic design trends for 2024: an infographic
What’s in store for graphic design in 2024? We asked experts from VistaPrint and members of the design community from […]
9 best packaging design trends for 2024
As we step into 2024, fresh packaging design trends are emerging, offering new ways for businesses of all sizes to […]
10 inspiring graphic design trends for 2024
Much like the impact of photography on the art world in the 19th century, we find ourselves in the midst […]
Best fonts for T-shirts
Introduction When it comes to designing a captivating T-shirt for your brand, choosing the right fonts plays a pivotal role. […]
6 steps to create a family photo gallery wall
Whether you have one child or many, you’re undoubtedly proud of them and their growth over the years. Why not […]
Postcard size guide
When it comes to marketing, there are lots of items you could add to your tool kit – business cards, […]
Designing stationery as a cherished wedding keepsake
The flowers. The lighting. The bride’s dress. All of these elements help define the special day, but there’s one detail […]
Simplicity is key: 4 minimalist packaging design tips
Consumers are increasingly favoring minimalist packaging and design in the products they buy. Why is this? For one, they are […]
Top trends and tips for designing the perfect custom T-shirt in 2023
Custom t-shirts and other types of personalized apparel have become increasingly popular among businesses and consumers over the years. Whether […]
How to use AI for small business design
AI for small business owners is a thing — and a rather compelling one, at that. Using artificial intelligence, or […]
Restaurant menu designs: 4 tips for making a successful menu
The best restaurant menu designs do more than simply list dishes and prices. The most dynamic restaurant menus, in fact, […]
Turn your business card into a brand storytelling tool
How do you want to tell your brand’s story? In today’s competitive marketplace, brand storytelling plays an important role in […]
Why a strong retail logo is crucial for your new store brand
Building a successful retail business is truly exciting. But it also involves a lot of work when you’re first starting […]
7 modern business card designs to spark your creativity
There’s nothing quite like giving someone a memorable way to remember you and your business. That’s why choosing unique, on-trend […]
How to design a great T-shirt
We chatted with TristanLeBreton, Creative Director at 99designs by Vista, for tips on creating impactful T-shirts. Whether for your business […]
RGB vs CMYK: What’s the difference?
Whether you’re a designer or you’re getting a design, it’s important to know the difference between RGB vs CMYK color […]
How to use the back of business cards: 11 creative design ideas
Your business card contains a lot of essential information about your business. Your logo should be loud and proud on […]
Your guide to custom T-shirt printing, embroidery & design
Whether you’re creating team uniforms, promotional giveaways or event wear, printing custom T-shirts is a great way to get your […]
The Business of Color
What do your colors mean? When you think about a brand, what springs to mind? A logo? Their latest product? […]
Business card design ideas for different industries
We chatted with Mark LaRosa, a Creative Manager at Vista, for his insights on business card design. Read on for […]
Get the look: Next-level product packaging
Packaging is just one part of a cohesive brand experience that can boost credibility across your marketing. From the colors to the typography, packaging design is a reflection of your brand identity
How to design a business card: 10 golden rules
A business card represents the next step in making your small business dream a reality. For many potential customers, it’s […]
What information should you put on your business card?
Knowing what business card details to add and what to leave out helps create a card that’s both eye-catching and […]
Marketing trends of 2025: From AI to nostalgia, here’s what’s shaping the future
The marketing trends of 2025 are breaking away from the “tried and true.” This year, it’s about blending retro vibes […]
The ultimate guide to small business marketing in 2024
The latest survey from VistaPrint, in partnership with Wix, captured insights from 1,000 U.S. small business owners and consumers in […]
Wow your customers with custom small business packaging
Have you ever received a package that popped with color and personality? As a business owner, you no doubt want […]
How to pick effective small business packaging that fits your brand
You deserve packaging that’s as powerful as your products. From shipping online orders to bagging up in-store purchases, packaging has […]
5 steps to promote your brand with event swag
Picture this: You just got invited to a local small business event, where there will be tons of potential for […]
Ship it with style: 5 tips for high-impact small business packaging
You know that feeling when you’re expecting a delivery and hear your doorbell ring? Or, perhaps you’re more of an […]
Promotional Product Ideas: 5 Ways to Fortify Your Brand
Promotional products are a must-have for any marketing toolkit. Whether you’re looking to build connections with customers, expand your revenue […]
My marketing must-haves Redesign resolution: A new look sparks a brand transformation
A new year brings new opportunities for everyone...especially small business owners. And Jack Eller, owner and designer of Jack Eller Studio, is ready to take his jewelry brand to the next level.
What is Cyber Monday? + 5 tips to run a successful sales campaign
For many people worldwide, the official Holiday Season begins the moment Halloween is finished and continues until New Year’s Day. […]
How to create a small business marketing plan
There are two distinct sides that make up a small business marketing plan: On one hand, there’s the creative flair—crafting […]
How to start a small business blog
When you’re running a small business, sometimes the hardest part is establishing that initial connection with your customers. Beyond getting […]
What is sports marketing and how to launch a successful campaign
Sports marketing is how businesses level the playing field of commerce. For athletic organizations, sports marketing not only sells tickets […]
50 ideas to increase store traffic during sports events
Sports events bring together communities of fans to share their excitement. And as a part of that fan community, small […]
11 inexpensive giveaway ideas for trade shows
Searching for fun promotional giveaways can be challenging—especially when your budget is limited. In this article, we’re diving deep into […]
7 creative candle packaging ideas to light a fire in your customers
Popular candles today are about so much more than a flickering light. Their color, shape, scent and presentation are all […]
5 types of sticker materials — and how to use them
Have you ever unboxed a product to find the brand’s custom gold foil sticker adorning the inner packaging, giving you […]
5 creative ways to use QR codes on business cards
Over the past few years, QR code usage has exploded. Contactless payments and restaurant menus have become commonplace, and forward-thinking […]
Where to put stickers to elevate your marketing efforts
Reddit is now a digital juggernaut, and it got there, in part, because it knew where to put stickers. Hold […]
How custom food packaging helps deliver your brand
How important is food delivery packaging? Picture this: A delivery driver enters a hotel or apartment lobby, and the mouthwatering […]
3 tips to get you started with restaurant branding
Your restaurant’s kitchen creates the most delectable dishes in town, but as a new business owner in the food and […]
10 creative places to leave business cards
Picture your bold and unique business card pinned up on a bulletin board, grabbing the attention of passersby who have […]
Small business thank you cards: A perfect event follow-up
You know you’re more than willing to go that extra mile for your customers. But do your customers? Luckily, there’s […]
7 steps to a successful small business trade show
Trade shows can be a complete goldmine for new customer connections and expanding your reach as a business. That’s why […]
Make your business stick out with brand logo stickers
You can put them on your product packaging. You can give them out to customers for free. And your customers […]
How to create an event promotion strategy that works every time
You’ve been there: You’ve walked into an event and thought, “Wow, this looks amazing!” That’s the impact that cohesive event […]
Give your new business a brand boost with custom packaging
In the crowded small business marketplace, your products and your branding are two places where you can stand out in […]
Don’t overlook these 7 unique types of business cards
Every small business is unique, and your business cards should be, too. In fact, the most effective types of business […]
How to select merch for your brand that your customers will love
Imagine your customers walking around wearing a cozy sweatshirt or colorful T-shirt with your logo on the front. Or carrying […]
Stickers for small business: Your complete marketing guide
These days, stickers aren’t just for kids — consumers of all ages love, use and collect them. And as a […]
How promotional merch can turn your customers into brand advocates
These days, digital connections offer lots of value to brands — but there’s just something special about engaging with people […]
Connect with customers to get the most from small business events
As a small business owner, you know how to tap into your creativity to make the most of a small […]
How to use small business promotional products to grow your business
Everyone loves swag. You probably have some branded merch of your own that not only serves a functional purpose but […]
Stand out from the crowd with these creative business sign ideas
As an entrepreneur with an exceptional offering, it’s no wonder you want your business signage to go stand out from […]
DIY marketing for small business: Make the most of your resources
Starting a small business takes hard work and a clear vision of what you hope to accomplish long-term. Keeping that […]
7 ways eateries can use QR codes
QR codes have made a comeback in the last few years – they’ve proven to be handy tools for all […]
The three you need: How to create a standout storefront
Summer is the perfect time for window shopping. And while that’s true every year, it’s especially true this year.
The three you need: Think outside the shop with a sidewalk pop-up
This is the perfect time of year to connect with customers...and you barely have to leave your storefront to do it.
Case Study: Events as a key marketing strategy
Nick Gold, managing director of motivational and keynote speaker bureau Speakers Corner, discusses how exhibitions were integral to the company’s […]
How to market your small business as a new entrepreneur
Marketing materials are often one of the first things small business owners think about when starting their company. Do you […]
What we learned: Hiring employees & growing a staff
Hiring an employee is a major step for a small business owner. When you decided to start your business, you […]
Adding social media icons on business cards—and why social media is important
These days, just about everyone is on social media, from casual gaming grandmas to foodies documenting their dining. For small […]
How to get online reviews for your business
When it comes to your business, don’t underestimate the power of online reviews. Picture this scenario: You’re craving a burger, […]
Everything you need to know about TikTok for small business
Social media is one of the best places to market your small business and connect with your customers while driving […]
22-step business start-up checklist
You want to start a business…congratulations! It’s an exciting adventure that is fulfilling, challenging and wonderful all at once. It’s […]
Why your business needs QR codes
Now more than ever, small businesses need creative ways to connect with their customers. Gone are the days of leisurely […]
How to come up with a business name
A good business name should embody the feeling of your brand. It should be memorable. It should remind your customers […]
How to start a small jewelry business from home in 11 steps
The jewelry market is booming, with the global market expected to reach $330 billion by 2026 and $482.22 billion by […]
The Master List of Easy & Creative Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofits
Fundraising isn’t just about collecting money—it’s the heartbeat that keeps nonprofits alive and kicking. It fuels our missions, keeps the […]
17 things to know before starting a business
Starting a business is exhilarating but it can also be daunting. One of the best ways to learn the ropes […]
Digital Marketing: How to Grow Your Business Online
Whether you’re a bricks-and-mortar store or an online retailer, knowing how to grow your business online is a must in […]
30 small business quotes guaranteed to inspire
Running a small business is a huge leap of faith, one that takes time, money and a whole lot of […]
Live the entrepreneur life: 75 small business ideas to get you started in 2024
You’re all set for a new venture. You’re just not sure what that should be. Fear not. Help is at […]
Your ultimate guide to the 12 common types of printing
You might have a piece of history sitting right at home. No, it’s not Grandpa Joe’s old photo album. Nor […]
How to start a wedding business side hustle that suits your talents
Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about getting into the wedding industry? Perhaps you have the talent and the desire […]
Small business success stories: How Loulette Bride created its strong client community
It’s not uncommon for small business success stories in the bridal world to center on mass-produced gown designs. But for […]
An entrepreneur’s guide on how to start a consulting business
You’ve got a knack for solving problems. And you’re always the go-to person for advice and insight among friends and […]
Open house: How to start a real estate business
Imagine this: You’re handing a client the keys to their dreams. They’ve just bought a home, and you made that […]
Exploring e-commerce: How to start an online business in 5 steps
Understanding how to start an online business can change the trajectory of your career. Once you launch your e-commerce website, […]
Etsy tax deductions: What sellers need to know
Understanding Etsy tax deductions can help you make the most of your finances during tax season and beyond. While navigating […]
Setting up shop: 5 things you need to get your business off the ground
Are you finally opening up a pet grooming shop, launching a boutique or making that bakery dream happen? Congrats! Deciding […]
Getting started: How to register a small business
Learning how to register a small business is the first step toward achieving your entrepreneurial dream. By breaking down the […]
How to become a preferred wedding vendor this season
Every year, millions of couples tie the knot, collectively spending billions of dollars to ensure their big days are as […]
The power of community: Sourcing inspiration, support and help for small businesses
Starting a small business can feel isolating. Growing a company often requires you to wear many hats and work long […]
How different types of labels can help you level up your products
Picture this: One of your loyal customers goes to collect their mail and is delighted to find a package from […]
6 actionable strategies for building customer loyalty
In Missoula, Montana, Runner’s Edge takes building customer loyalty seriously. Very seriously. Each holiday season, the running specialty store sends […]
How to create a small business marketing budget
Small businesses are seen as the quiet engines of the U.S. economy. They employ close to 60 million people, generate […]
A guide to types of business card paper
Embarking on the creation of your business card involves much more than simply placing your contact details on a piece […]
How to start a retail business that gets noticed
Figuring out how to start a retail business is a big undertaking, but it can be incredibly rewarding to see […]
How to prepare for a small business event that shines
Preparing for a small business event is incredibly exciting. Beyond sales, connecting with your community and seeing how people react […]
Building a brand identity for your small business
When you’re building a brand for your small business, you’re bound to face your fair share of challenges. And one […]
Why you still need business cards in a digital world
In today’s tech-charged world, where people carry so much information in their pockets, it’s reasonable to question the value of […]
5 steps to starting a business with confidence
Getting the ball rolling on your new small business idea is an exciting time. Ideas are flowing, tasks are lining […]
Appointment cards: An easy way to make your business card work harder
Small business owners spend a lot of time thinking about the front of our business cards. And they should, no […]
Design inspiration: Stylish business card examples
Creating a business card design that won’t get lost in the shuffle, and that will generate interest in your brand, […]
How small business is shifting in 2023
Get your business off to a fresh start in 2023.
How to choose & design a label
Personalized labels are an affordable way to add professionalism and personality to your products, packaging and more. But with so […]
How to Use Stamps for Branding and Promotion
Your business has endless repetitive tasks and processes, whether you’re filing another document or sending another piece of mail. Business […]
How to choose a logo for your business
Plus, expert logo design tips from one of Vista's Creative Directors.
What is a brand promise? Examples and benefits for your business
When most people think of branding essentials what comes to mind are logos, taglines and packaging. But what about your […]
Brand positioning: How to write a brand positioning statement
In a crowded market, a strong brand positioning strategy is what makes your brand unforgettable — it’s the reason customers […]
Understanding the psychology of branding: How to connect with customers
Everything in our environment was designed with psychology in mind. You may not realize it, but even the cool-toned lights […]
What is brand equity and should your business care?
Branding is a complex process with many terms to describe the strategies and results. For example, you might be wondering, […]
11 eco-friendly brands that put the planet first
As we — as individuals, corporations and businesses — become more aware of how we are affecting the planet, eco-friendliness […]
Store branding ideas: storefront and in-store
In the fiercely competitive retail landscape, store branding isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a strategic imperative. It’s the secret sauce that […]