Preparing Your Brand for 2026: Design and Marketing Projects to Start Now
- AP Creative Solutions
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 22
The last quarter of the year isn’t just for wrapping things up—it’s the perfect time to look ahead.
Before the rush of the new year hits, smart businesses use fall to refresh their branding, update their marketing materials, and plan ahead for 2026.
Whether you’re a consultant, govcon firm, or real estate team, now’s the time to review what’s working, identify what’s outdated, and invest in the creative assets that will set you up for success next year.
Here’s a look at the design and marketing projects you should start now—before the calendar (and your workload) fills up.
1. Conduct a Brand Audit
Before you create anything new, take stock of what you already have.
Ask yourself:
Does our logo still represent who we are?
Are our colors and fonts consistent across all materials?
Is our messaging still accurate and relevant?
Do our visuals reflect our current level of professionalism?
A quick audit can reveal inconsistencies that dilute your brand and identify opportunities for updates or refreshes.
Pro Tip: Even small refinements—like tightening color palettes or simplifying logo usage—can make your brand feel modern and cohesive heading into 2026.
2. Refresh Core Marketing Materials
Now’s the perfect time to refresh the pieces that do the heavy lifting for your business.
Consider updating:
Business Cards – A clean, modern card design makes a lasting impression.
Brochures and One-Pagers – Update services, stats, and visuals for the new year.
Capability Statements – Align with your latest experience and certifications.
Pitch Decks and Slide Templates – Keep presentations on-brand and consistent.
Branded Folders and Proposals – Update designs for a polished, unified client experience.
When these materials look aligned, your brand appears credible and professional—especially during the first quarter when new opportunities surface.
3. Plan 2026 Campaigns Now
Think strategically about what your audience will need next year—and plan your content calendar in advance.
Start drafting:
Quarterly campaigns (service launches, events, awareness pushes)
Seasonal promotions or community tie-ins
Social media series that showcase your team or expertise
Print campaigns to align with trade shows or local events
By planning now, you can hit the ground running in January instead of scrambling to create content mid-year.
4. Update Digital Touchpoints
Your website and social media often form your first impression—make sure they’re ready for 2026.
Review:
Website design and navigation
Portfolio images and case studies
Blog and resource library (remove outdated content)
Email templates and signatures
LinkedIn banners and team headshots
Consistency across all digital platforms strengthens recognition and reinforces your credibility.
5. Evaluate Your Print & Promotional Strategy
Physical marketing materials still make an impact—especially in industries where trust and visibility matter.
Review your inventory of:
Event signage and banners
Direct mail pieces
Promotional products or client giveaways
Now is the time to restock, redesign, or source higher-quality options for the year ahead. A unified look across your printed and digital materials amplifies your brand recognition.
6. Strengthen Your Visual Storytelling
People connect with visuals more than ever. Ensure your imagery, video, and branded graphics reflect your identity and mission.
Consider:
New branded photography for your website and collateral
Updated social media templates and quote graphics
Video introductions or explainer clips
Consistent icons, textures, and colors for all channels
Strong visual storytelling not only grabs attention—it helps people understand what makes your business unique.
7. Partner With a Creative Team Before the Rush
The first quarter is notoriously busy for design and marketing work. By booking projects now, you’ll:
Secure production timelines before vendors and printers fill up.
Avoid rush fees and delays.
Enter 2026 with everything ready to go.
At AP Creative Solutions, we help businesses plan, design, and launch their next big marketing chapter—without the chaos of last-minute deadlines.
Final Thoughts
Q4 isn’t just the end of the year—it’s your launch pad for the next one.
By refreshing your brand, updating your collateral, and planning your marketing early, you’ll start 2026 confident, consistent, and ready to grow.
Don’t wait for January to make your brand look its best—start today, and give yourself the head start you deserve.
Ready to prepare your brand for 2026?
Let’s plan your next round of design and marketing projects now.
