We asked Katherine Rodriguez, one of our talented designers here at Chesapeake Bay Candle, to share her top 5 favorite blogs and she got back to us with a well-balanced mix.
1. In the Market
http://www.brandweek.com/
Though this isn’t a blog, I still like to know what’s going on in the industry. With articles about targeting demographics, rebranding that has and has not worked, which companies are spending what money where on advertising, and new methods of marketing, I feel connected to the design world. Just seeing what has worked for some companies and how we can apply their methods to our product and retailers is key to design.
2. Packaging
http://www.thedieline.com/blog/
Being a packaging designer, this blog, features packaging, was a no brainer. There’s a great balance of design, from food to soap, from around the world. The descriptions behind the design are a great way to further appreciate the designer’s message he/she is trying to communicate. Also, I like the student spotlights showing what talent is coming out of some of the top design schools.
3. Home Décor & Fashion
http://www.designspongeonline.com/
http://decor8blog.com/
http://ohjoy.blogs.com/
These are mostly driven by product and home décor, but there’s some fashion mixed in. Any of these blogs are a great way to see various styles of design. I love Design Sponge’s “Before and After” for home furnishings and Oh Joy’s “This and That”, translating trends across multiple means. Such a great way to be exposed to all kinds of home décor goods, fashion accessories, patterns and great product. Also amazing images for trend boards!
4. Design
http://www.designworklife.com/
A friend from college started this blog and I think its great to see a fellow designer blogging. While great product is always good to see (like design sponge, print and pattern, and decor8), I like the entries about typography, new typefaces, and other designers.
5. Wedding Blogs
http://www.swsmag.net/
http://bklynbrideonline.com/
Recently being married myself, I discovered the joy of wedding blogs! They are great for color inspiration and DIY projects, along with amazing photography. Beautiful patterns, trends, and ideas come out of these creative brides. And Brooklyn Bride’s studio tours are great to take a peak inside workspaces for more inspiration.
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