We chatted with Mark, a Creative Manager, for his insights on business card design. Read on for Mark’s expert tips on getting a unique look for your business card based on what industry you’re in.
Your business card is often the first impression you make on prospective clients – and while your card should include basic information (like your logo and contact details), it should also have a memorable design. From typography to paper type, there’s a lot to consider when you’re designing a business card.
- Creative professionals
- Business professionals
- Service providers
- Fitness centers
- Retail businesses
- Eateries
- Salons and spas
1. Business card design ideas for creative professionals
If you work in a creative industry – maybe you’re a photographer, a florist or an interior decorator – showcase that on your business card. “Your business card represents you as a professional freelancer or a small agency, not a large company. So, choose a card design that captures your unique style, personality and talent,” Mark says. Here are some of his suggestions for creating a stand-out card design:
- Create a repeating background using your logo to add depth to your business card background.
- Include something about working with you, or simply say “hello” with a personality-packed tagline.
- Show off your talent with a recent project or customer testimonial.
“Whether it’s the logo you’ve designed or a catchy line of copy that summarizes your skills, this is your first introduction and a chance to showcase your expertise – so put it front and center,” Mark says.
2. Business cards for business professionals
If you own a professional business – like a law firm or real estate agency – competence is the most important thing your business card should communicate. Mark recommends avoiding whimsical typography and sticking to more conservative font pairings, but notes that geometric shapes and pastel colors are understated ways to add some personality to a more conservative design.
Business Card Expert Tip: A headshot is a great way to build trust and show the person behind the business, especially if you work in a client-facing position – like a real estate agent or an attorney.
3. Business card design ideas for service providers
Do you run a specialized service, like a housekeeping company or landscaping business? Make sure your business card clearly communicates what you do. For example, if you’re in the business of making things clean and beautiful, your business cards should communicate that. “But that doesn’t mean it needs to be a stark white card,” Mark says. “Your card should always clearly state what you do, but also let your clients know what’s different or unique about you.” He suggests using kraft paper (or recycled paper!) and green-color accents to show that you’re environmentally conscious, or including a graphic of an office building if you specialize in commercial cleaning.
4. Business card design ideas for personal trainers & fitness industries
Fitness is a broad and competitive industry…so, you want to make sure your business card design stands out. Mark recommends using your card to showcase your specific area of expertise. “If you focus on strength training or physical conditioning, consider an expressive logo and bold color palette to communicate a sense of power and definition.” Conversely, if your area of expertise is a healing exercise, like yoga or reiki, soft colors and natural textures can help communicate the nourishing effects of your classes.
Mark also suggests including customer testimonials on the back of your business card. “These details prove your ability in your field, instill confidence and increase the likelihood of recommendations.”
5. Design ideas for retail businesses
Style and trends drive the world of retail business – especially if you’re in the fashion or design industry. “If your business card looks outdated, potential clients will assume your whole aesthetic is old and stale,” Mark says. “Stay modern, stay current, but choose styles that appeal to most clients.”
Let’s say you own a jewelry shop. Why not include metallic accents and foil details to your business card design? Premium finishes make your card look distinguished, and also nod to the raw materials you use in your jewelry. Or, maybe you run a retail store that specializes in children’s toys. Make that obvious on your business card with a toy-inspired icon and primary colors.
6. How to design a business card for your eatery
Whether you run a coffee shop or pizza parlor, Mark says that your business card design should demonstrate what makes you different. “Remember, people might be picking up business cards in your restaurant, receiving them in a hotel lobby or getting them from a friend as a recommendation. So, it pays to capture the memorable aspects of your eatery on your card.”
Do you use locally-sourced or 100% organic ingredients? Differentiate yourself from those that don’t to capture the environmentally-conscious audience. If you specialize in decorative desserts or elaborate wedding cake designs, show people what you’re capable of creating on your card.
Are you an established restaurant with an enduring history? Many well-established restaurants use the strength of their name in a classic font with their essential contact details. This simple look, along with the year you set up shop, conveys confidence and reputation.
Business Card Expert Tip: Does your cafe offer a rewards program? Design one side of your business card as a rewards card, that can be stamped with each purchase
7. Business cards for salons and spas
Much like other creative professions, beauty-related professions involve original artistry, communicate that you’re up-to-date with the latest styles by using a clear layout and on-trend typography. And like business cards for other industries, make sure that your card communicates what you specialize in.
Are you a cutting-edge salon that specializes in the latest trends in cuts or color? List out some of your specialisms, but don’t overdo the text on the front side. Consider the back side of your card for listing out treatments and styles. Or, maybe you specialize in event, like weddings. Include a selection of your package offerings on the back of your card.
Is your old school barbershop just as much about the atmosphere and conversation as it is about the cut? You could choose a design with classic barber’s pole design elements or a retro cut-throat razor to suggest the traditional barbershop experience.
Or, perhaps you run a day spa. Use your business card to give potential clients an idea of your spa’s vibe. Show that you use all-natural ingredients with a kraft paper card and leaf motif, or reflect your luxurious setting with foil text.
