The team here at Foxtie – Web Design & Marketing was overjoyed to run across the new design for CCR Software Shop. This Australia based web design firm was so impressed with our design that they repurposed all of it.

Some designers might take offence at this “copycatting”, but we look around at our peers in the industry and wonder, “when’s the last time a company across the globe ripped off one of their designs”?

We pride ourselves on our originality and trailblazing attitude. We welcome the fan boys and followers that inevitably flock to the front runners like Foxtie. We’re happy to take the lead.

Traditionally, visual branding elements have been reinforced by the face behind the apron at your local coffee shop, or the smell of the cologne at your favorite clothing store. Online marketing relies almost exclusively on visual elements to create brand recognition and keep the customers returning again and again. Mascots can provide this visual element in a fun and unique way that makes your brand stand out from your competitors.

I’ve compiled a few of my favorites below.

Domain Names

It’s becoming harder and harder to register a short memorable domain name. They’re all taken, and you’re left with www.joesdiscountplumbingindayton.net. How do you get your clients to remember to call you, rather than Bob’s Plumbing across town? Make sure your website stands out. Create a mascot that clients will find cute, amusing, or identify with. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve tracked down a site that I saw a few months back, just because the company had a great mascot. I couldn’t remember the domain of the site, I just remembered it had a cute squirrel nibbling on a USB drive.

Color Schemes

So, your corporate colors are “blush and bashful”. Rather than just drape your navigation and call-to-actions in pink – create characters that wear pink shoes, name them Blush and Bashful, and create a back story for your characters. Colors are more than a Pantone® swatch. Own your color scheme.

Attitude

Are you a bunch of tech geeks? Flamboyant designers? A rough and tumble mechanic? Give your mascot an attitude, and let clients know what to expect when they work with you.

Marketing Possibilities

Mascots can help sell your products or services. Think of them as your personal sales rep on your site. Your illustrator will be able to create multiple poses and scenarios for your mascot. Use these throughout your site.

Cost

Compared to expensive photo shoots with models and props, illustrations are a cost-effective way to visually convey a similar sales message.

Foxtie’s resident illustrator, Christi Rochin, is eagerly awaiting her next assignment. She’d love to hear about your project. Send her an email here.