When to Hire a Designer for Your Custom Name Tags

There are many benefits for businesses, event organizers, and organizations that choose to use custom name badges. In fact, it can be a powerful branding tool for those who choose to include their full color logo or branding elements. But should you try to design your own custom name tags? Or is it better to hire a professional designer? Generally, it depends on your budget and the effect you want to achieve.

Why Design Your Own Custom Name Badges?

If you, or someone who works for your company, are comfortable using basic design tools, and you need a simple, but straightforward name badge design, you can do it yourself. There are some good reasons why you might want to take the DIY custom name badge design.

·        Cost-Effective. When you design custom name badges in-house or yourself, you do not incur any extra design fees. Of course, you’ll still have to cover the costs of printing your name tags.

·        Retain Full Control. Taking the DIY route means you can customize every aspect of your name badges.

How to Design a Custom Name Tag

When choosing what to put on a custom name badge, prioritize clear legibility by including first and last names prominently. Consider adding your job title or company affiliation if relevant to the event, and incorporate a company logo subtly if appropriate. Just make sure your name badge design, all while ensuring the design is balanced and not overly cluttered with information

Pro Tip: Always prioritize readability over excessive details. 

Key points to consider:

• Essential Information: Always include the wearer’s full first and last name, written clearly in a readable font. 
• Job Title/Company: Depending on the situation, add your job title or company name to provide context for introductions. 
• Logo Inclusion: If representing a company, consider adding a small, well-placed logo that doesn't overshadow your name. 
• Font Choice: Opt for a clean, sans-serif font that is easy to read from a distance. 
• Design Balance: Distribute information evenly on the badge, avoiding overcrowding. 
• Context Matters: Consider the event or situation when deciding what information to include. 

There are also a few things you want to avoid when designing a custom name badge.

• Overly Decorative Fonts: Fancy or cursive fonts can be hard to read. 
• Too Much Information: Avoid adding unnecessary details like contact information unless absolutely necessary. 
• Unprofessional Elements: Be mindful of using graphics or imagery that might not be appropriate for the setting. 

When to Hire a Professional Designer to Design a Custom Name Tags

There are a few benefits to hiring professional designers. If it is not cost-prohibitive, it’s actually a good idea as they have the expertise to create a clean, professional design that matches your company or event brand. Here are three times when you might want to hire a pro designer.

1.    Complex Designs.

If you need a new logo, it may be time to go with a professional designer. Looking for intricate graphics or a design that aligns with a specific brand aesthetic? A designer can help make your vision a reality.

2.    Professional Image

Designers can create a polished, sophisticated aesthetic that reflects your brand image.

3.    Time Constraints

Do you need a high-quality design quickly? A designer can handle the process efficiently.

Let Name Tag Pros Help!

Whether you design your own custom name badge, or hire a professional designer, you’ll going to need someone with experience to print them and prepare them for use. Reach out to Name Tag Pros and let us put our expertise to work for you!