Design can make or break a first impression — especially for small businesses trying to stand out. At Jester Graphix, we’ve worked with companies of all sizes for over 30 years, and we've seen the same issues pop up again and again with businesses just getting started or trying to grow.

The good news? Most of these mistakes are easily avoided — or quickly fixed with the right strategy.

Let’s look at the five most common design missteps we see small businesses make… and how to fix them for good.

1. Inconsistent Branding Across Platforms

Your logo looks one way on your business card, another way on your website, and completely different on your social media? That’s a red flag.

Inconsistency weakens credibility and confuses potential customers.

The Fix:Create a cohesive visual identity and stick to it. That includes a professional logo, consistent color palette, fonts, and tone of voice. At Jester Graphix, we build brand packages that make it easy to stay visually aligned — from signage to social.

2. Using Low-Quality Images and Graphics

Pixelated logos, blurry product photos, or clipart-looking icons instantly make your brand feel less trustworthy. Design is a reflection of your professionalism.

The Fix:Invest in high-resolution graphics and professionally created assets. We provide logo files in all necessary formats, and we can connect you with quality photography and design elements that match your brand — not hurt it.

3. DIY Overload

Paragraph Text:We get it — Canva and other tools make it tempting to do it all yourself. But without a solid design foundation, DIY marketing can quickly become a patchwork mess.

The Fix:Partner with a designer who understands layout, spacing, hierarchy, and branding — not just how to drag and drop. At Jester Graphix, we often clean up DIY projects and turn them into polished, print- or web-ready assets that work.

4. Ignoring Print Materials Entirely

In a digital-first world, many small businesses forget how powerful a well-designed printed piece can be — whether it’s a business card, brochure, sign, or postcard.

The Fix:Use print to support your digital presence. We help clients design and produce high-impact print materials that look sharp, feel professional, and reinforce your brand in the real world. A great flyer can go places your Instagram post can’t.

5. Skipping the Strategy

Design isn’t just about looking good — it’s about communicating clearly and driving action. Many small businesses create graphics without thinking through the “why.”

The Fix:Start with your goals. Whether you’re trying to attract new clients, grow your social following, or promote a sale, your design should serve a purpose. We bring strategy and experience to the table to make sure every piece has impact and intention.

Let’s Get Your Design Working for You

Great design doesn’t have to be out of reach for small businesses. With the right creative partner, your brand can look sharp, feel consistent, and grow with confidence.

Contact us at 609-402-1207 or email us to talk about your next project — or to clean up that DIY flyer you’ve been meaning to fix.

Jester Graphix: Why pick just one card when you can get the whole deck?