Starting a brand is exciting! But let’s be honest, it can also feel like trying to build a house without a blueprint. There are so many directions you could go: logos, websites, social media, photography… where do you even begin? The truth is, when you’re starting a brand, your success often depends on making the right investments at the right time. Strategic investments early on help you build a foundation that not only looks good but feels aligned and performs well.

Take Brittany, for example. She booked a VIP Day with me where we mapped out her brand strategy and messaging. From there, we created custom brand photos that reflect her voice, her vibe, and the value she brings to her clients. Everything from her content and visuals to her website. That’s the kind of momentum you want when you’re launching something new.

So, let’s break down where your time, energy, and budget are best spent when you’re building your brand from the ground up.

Brand Strategy: The Blueprint for Everything Else

Before you create visuals or write content, you need clarity. A strong brand strategy defines who you are, what you offer, who you serve, and why it all matters. It helps you speak directly to the people you want to reach without guessing or second-guessing.

When Brittany invested in a VIP Day, we didn’t start with photos. We started with questions. We identified her ideal client, refined her brand values, and developed a messaging guide she could use across her business. That strategy became the filter for every decision she made afterward.

Messaging That Connects and Converts

Once you know your brand strategy, your words come next. Your messaging is how you talk about what you do. And it is everywhere! On your website, your social media, in your emails, everywhere. When you’re starting a brand, investing time or money into copywriting or message coaching can help you articulate your offers with clarity and confidence.

Brittany’s messaging went from vague and generic to clear and compelling. Now, when people land on her page, they instantly get who she is and how she can help. This is why working with a messaging coach, or developing a voice guide is so important! It keeps you consistent across platforms while bringing power and authority to your message.

Brand Photography That Tells Your Story

Photography isn’t just about pretty pictures, it’s about trust. When you’re starting a brand, custom brand photography helps your audience feel like they know you. It’s a visual handshake. It says: “I’m real, I’m professional, and I’m here to serve.”

After Brittany’s strategy was in place, we created a photo shoot that aligned with her brand personality, voice, and client experience. Every image now tells a story, and she has a full gallery of content ready to use across her website, social, and email. Moral of the story? Book a brand photographer who understands your vision and can plan a session with strategy in mind.

Starting A Brand With A Website That Works Hard for You

Your website is like a digital business card, but even more so it’s your brand’s home base. It should reflect your personality, speak to your ideal audience, and guide visitors toward action (think: booking, buying, or joining). A great website doesn’t just look good, it converts!

Brittany’s new site is clean, on-brand, and easy to navigate. It reflects the confidence and clarity she built through our strategy work. Her copy and visuals work together seamlessly. It may seem like a big investment when starting a brand. And truth be told, it is. However, this is an investment that will make you so many more sales! Start with a simple, strategic site on platforms like Showit or Squarespace. Hire a designer if it fits your budget, or use a well-designed template tailored to your brand.

Content Support: Show Up Consistently Without the Burnout

Once you’ve built the foundation, you need to show up. I’m talking blog posts, social captions, email marketing. Your content is how people find and connect with you. When you’re starting a brand, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by content creation. Which is why investing in content help early can save you serious time and energy.

Brittany now repurposes her brand photos across Instagram, her blog, and her newsletter. It’s not just easier, but it’s smarter. Her content is cohesive and aligned, without needing to reinvent the wheel every week. Plus, it makes consistency more attainable! Hiring a content strategist, outsource blog writing, or use tools/templates to batch your posts more efficiently are some of the best ways to invest in your business to start your brand.

Invest in Coaching and Community

Starting a brand can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to. As a business owner myself I love building friendships through business, spending time with my business bestie, and simply just having a community of people I can lean on in tough times.But how do you build that?

Invest in coaching, mentorships, and creative communities. They can offer feedback, encouragement, and accountability when you need it most. Having someone in your corner can make a huge difference in how confident and consistent you feel. Starting a brand is hard work, but it’s a lot more fun with a community!

Starting A Brand

When you’re starting a brand, the goal isn’t just to look professional. It’s to build something meaningful. Something that feels aligned with who you are and what you offer. The smartest investments aren’t always the flashiest. They’re are often the ones that give you clarity, confidence, and content that lasts.

Just like Brittany, you can build a brand that connects and converts without the chaos.
Want help getting started? A VIP Brand Strategy + Photo Day might be the perfect first step. Let’s make your brand look as good as it feels.

Book a FREE 15 minute call with my to talk all about your brand strategy!

About Lisa Lord (aka LiLo)

I’m Lisa (aka LiLo) and I help business owners build full, strategic brands from the start to finish. Whether you’re building a brand from scratch or rebranding your business for the next level, I guide you through the entire process. I help with brand strategy, logo design, brand photography, and website creation. I create cohesive, high-impact brands that help you show up, stand out, and grow with clarity and confidence. Learn More About Me | Book a Free Branding Call | Follow on Instagram