Better Together

PB&J and the Perfect Brand Pairing

While cleaning out the attic, I came across an old but beloved graphic tee from my youngest child’s elementary school days (see pic above). It features an illustration of a jar of peanut butter and a jar of jelly lovingly holding hands—a reminder of an age-old, perfect pairing. And it got me thinking: isn’t brand strategy and graphic design just like that?

Like peanut butter and jelly, design and strategy can each stand alone. Sure, you could have one without the other, but—peanut allergies aside—why would you?

Brand strategy is the peanut butter—rich, substantial, and the glue that holds your business identity together. It gives your brand depth and purpose, providing the sticky deliciousness that keeps everything aligned. Graphic design, on the other hand, is the jelly—vibrant, colorful and full of personality. It adds that irresistible flair, making your brand both appealing and memorable.

Alone, they serve a purpose. But together? That’s where the magic happens. Without strategy, design might look good but lack meaning. And without design, strategy can feel like a spoonful of peanut butter with no drink in sight—dense and hard to swallow.

So the next time you're tempted to skip one or the other, ask yourself: Would you settle for just peanut butter or just jelly? Or would you rather have the full, satisfying experience? Make sure your brand gets the best of both worlds—strategy and design, working in delicious harmony.

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Are you feeling like your brand’s strategy and design are discordant? Does it seem more like a banana and garlic sandwich? Send us an email or give us a call. We’d love to set up a time to discuss how strategy and design can work together to help you achieve your goals.