Cedar Creek Dog Treats
Branding Project
Getting Started:
I was lucky enough to be involved in this business from the very beginning, from when it was just an idea to seeing the finished products on store shelves. My friend Cindy had a vision for creating simple, healthy dog treats and asked me to design the logo, branding, and packaging for her three flavors. I jumped at the opportunity and got started right away.
Brainstorming & Research:
We decided early on to go with circle-shaped labels that Cindy could easily print and apply herself while packaging the treats. Right away, I knew the brand needed a black and tan color palette, something natural and grounded to reflect the healthy ingredients and highlight the main component of each recipe: organic whole wheat flour. To give each flavor its own personality, I created custom illustrations that added a playful, handcrafted touch to the brand.
Design Execution:
Set against a black background, the warm tan tones of the text and illustrations highlight the organic ingredients through simple color and contrast. One of the challenges was fitting all the required information onto the small circular front label and the square label on the back, but I carefully organized the layout to keep everything clean and readable. I also hand-drew each illustration for the three flavors - pumpkin, carrot, and sweet potato, to give the brand a personal, handcrafted feel.
Feedback & Refinement:
After some test printing with Cindy, we realized the contrast between the black and tan needed to be stronger and bolder to stay readable on the small labels. We also had to adjust the back labels to work with the printer, switching to a vertical layout with a simpler design and clean white background. Along the way, we decided the brand would benefit from an illustrated logo, so I pulled together a concept I'd envisioned from the start, combining a dog's snout with a wheat plant to represent the healthy, natural ingredients.
Final Deliverables:
Seeing this brand and its label designs come to life all the way through to physical print was incredibly satisfying. Customers have been loving the logo and sharing such kind feedback, which has been amazing to hear. Since Cindy was handling all of the printing and packaging herself, I made sure the labels and website assets were clean, organized, and easy to use to make the branding process as seamless as possible. Collaborating with a friend as she launched her own business reinforced how much I enjoy working with small businesses and helping them establish a strong, confident foundation for growth.
Want to work with Fiona?
Let's discuss how I can add to your project or brand and create striking visuals to best show off who you are.