Google recently launched its Penguin update algorithm that “is aimed at decreasing search engine rankings of websites that violate Google’s Webmaster Guidelines” [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_Penguin]. What this means is that Google is trying to remove those websites that have over-indulged in search engine optimization and schmarmy keyword techniques that appear in your Google results even though you …

Logos, colors, fonts and background elements are all components of “branding.” One of my favorite things to do for clients who need branding is to incorporate hand-painted elements into their designs. For one, this adds some personalized flavor to their business identity. Second, unique branding makes these clients stand out among their competitors. Below is …

Many businesses have a profile up on Yelp.com where customers can rate and review their services, products, etc. However, sometimes enabling a way for customers to rate and review you publically can end up with less-than-desired outcomes, such as negative reviews. Maybe you had a bad day and were snappy, or the fish that was …

Ever see your friends or associates post too-good-to-be-true status updates on Facebook or dream-like scenes on Pinterest? Their image or status update makes everything seem so perfect, beautiful, incredible, etc. Well, the reality is our society is easily tricked and convinced with thoughtful wordplay and creative images. This is the reason that graphic designers, web …

Creating a contest is a great way to attract the attention of new customers, as well as get remembered by repeat customers. For the small amount the prize costs you and the time it takes you to host the contest, a contest can often gain more exposure and have more of an effect than if …

Pinterest, a social network that allows you to share all of the beautiful images you see on the internet, is also a wonderful tool to help promote your business. Surpassing the traffic stats of several other popular social networks such as Facebook and Google+, Pinterest is a great venue to drive more traffic to your …

After a month and a half of open applications, the Stoke the Fire Contest for a chance to win $2k worth of design and marketing services has come to a close. Applications were reviewed based on timeliness of submission, how compelling their essay was, how realistic applicant goals could be achieved with the prize, and …

Facebook has recently made their timeline format available for business and fan pages. One of the greatest visual features of this change is the addition of the cover photo. The cover photo provides businesses an opportunity to make a big visual impact for new visitors, (even though there are some Facebook guidelines to adhere to). …

Facebook has recently announced that their new timeline format is now available for business and fan pages. The timeline format is currently available either as a public change or as a trial stage (trial stage is only available through March 30, 2012; after that all pages will be changed to this new format). The timeline …

Are you a business or organization in Truckee/Lake Tahoe? Do you want to win $2,000 worth of marketing and design services? If so, the Stoke the Fire Contest is for you. The Contest “Next to doing the right thing, the most important thing is to let people know you are doing the right thing.” ~John …