Creating Mood Boards & Briefs That Work

When you're working with a designer, the clearer your direction, the better the outcome. A creative brief and a mood board are two of the most effective tools you can use to communicate your vision—visually, emotionally, and practically.

Think of a creative brief as the what and a mood board as the feel. Together, they help avoid missteps, save time, and keep the project moving forward with purpose.

1. Start With the Brief

Before you jump into visuals, write a short brief. It doesn’t have to be formal—just clear. Include:

• What the design is for (logo, menu, signage, etc.)

• The tone or personality you want to convey

• Anything that must be included (copy, colors, logo marks)

  
  

2. Curate Your Mood Board

Mood boards are your best way to show how you want your brand to feel. Pull images that speak to:

• Color palettes

• Typography

• Layout or design styles

• Textures, patterns, or finishes

• Photo and lighting style

Keep it focused: 6–12 strong images tell a better story than 30 scattered ones.

3. Describe the Vibe

Pair your mood board with a few keywords like “bold,” “timeless,” “elevated,” or “friendly.” These help designers interpret the visuals through your lens.

4. Say What to Avoid

If there’s a style, font, or look you hate, say so. A quick note or a “not this” section saves time and clarifies direction.

5. Be Open to Input

Design is a conversation. Your mood board is a starting point, not a fixed roadmap. The best collaborations happen when there’s room for discovery.

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Let’s Build Your Brand Together

Whether you need help shaping your brief, curating a mood board, or turning your vision into real design, I can help. We’ll talk through your taste, identify what fits your brand, and build something that works—and looks great doing it.

Want to collaborate? Let’s get started.

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