Comprehensive Branding and Digital Presence for Carlton Factory

Joseph Amezaga

Graphic Designer
Web Designer
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Shopify

Client Overview:

Carlton Factory is a family-owned business dedicated to keeping classic video games and gaming equipment alive. Operating from the coast of North Carolina, Carlton Factory caters to gamers, collectors, and nostalgia seekers around the globe. They pride themselves on being the most reliable online provider of used video games, offering everything from Nintendo 64 and SNES to Sega Genesis and Dreamcast, all with a 100% guarantee.

Project Scope:

Carlton Factory approached us with the goal of enhancing their brand presence both online and offline. The project included:
Website Design
Window Cling Design
Business Card Design
Social Media Posts

Challenges:

Capturing Nostalgia: The designs needed to evoke the nostalgia and joy of classic gaming while maintaining a modern, professional appeal.
Brand Cohesion: All materials, from the website to business cards, needed to reflect a unified brand identity that resonates with both avid gamers and casual customers.
Engaging Content: The social media posts had to be visually engaging and designed to drive customer interaction and online sales.

1. Website Design

Objective:

To create a user-friendly, visually appealing website that captures the essence of classic gaming while providing a seamless shopping experience.

Process:

Research & Inspiration: We studied various classic game designs, color schemes, and layouts to capture the nostalgia Carlton Factory wanted to evoke.
User Experience (UX) Design: A priority was to ensure easy navigation, so we structured the website to allow users to quickly find and purchase their favorite games. The design also needed to work seamlessly across all devices.
Visual Design: We incorporated vintage gaming elements, such as pixel art and retro fonts, while using a clean, modern layout. The color palette featured vibrant, game-inspired colors to create an engaging and lively atmosphere.
E-commerce Integration: The site was built with robust e-commerce capabilities, allowing for secure transactions, detailed product descriptions, and easy inventory management.

Outcome:

The final website design successfully combines modern e-commerce functionality with a nostalgic feel, offering users an immersive experience that celebrates classic gaming. Carlton Factory now has a vibrant online platform that enhances customer engagement and drives sales.
Finished Web Design for Carltonfactory.com
Finished Web Design for Carltonfactory.com

2. Window Cling Design

Objective:

To create an eye-catching window cling that attracts customers and reinforces Carlton Factory’s brand identity.

Process:

Concept Development: I designed the window cling to capture attention with bold graphics reminiscent of classic video games. The aim was to create a visual connection with both passersby and loyal customers.
Design Execution: The cling features iconic imagery from retro games, combined with the Carlton Factory logo and a clear call-to-action to visit the website or store.
Material Selection: Durable, high-quality materials were chosen to ensure the window cling would remain vibrant and intact over time, even when exposed to sunlight and weather conditions.

Outcome:

The window cling design effectively draws attention to Carlton Factory’s physical location, creating an inviting storefront that appeals to both new customers and returning patrons. It serves as a visual reminder of the brand’s dedication to classic gaming.
Finished Window Cling Design
Finished Window Cling Design

3. Business Card Design

Objective:

To design business cards that leave a lasting impression while clearly conveying Carlton Factory’s brand identity.

Process:

Design Concept: I aimed for a balance between nostalgic and professional elements. The design featured retro game graphics alongside essential business information, ensuring the cards were memorable and functional.
Customization: I added a unique touch by incorporating QR codes that direct recipients to Carlton Factory’s website, making it easy for them to explore the company’s offerings.
Print Quality: High-quality card stock with a matte finish was selected, providing a tactile feel that complements the vintage aesthetic.

Outcome:

The business cards are a perfect blend of nostalgia and professionalism, helping Carlton Factory make a strong impression during networking and business interactions. The inclusion of QR codes enhances their practicality, driving more traffic to the website.
Front Business Card
Front Business Card
Back Business Card
Back Business Card

4. Social Media Posts

Objective:

To create engaging social media content that drives interaction and promotes Carlton Factory’s products and brand.

Process:

Content Strategy: I developed a content plan focused on showcasing classic games, sharing gaming trivia, and highlighting special promotions. The goal was to engage both existing followers and attract new ones.
Visual Design: Each post was designed with vibrant, retro-inspired graphics that aligned with Carlton Factory’s brand identity. We used game-related imagery and catchy headlines to capture attention.
Scheduling & Engagement: Posts were scheduled at optimal times to maximize reach and engagement. We also encouraged user interaction through polls, questions, and user-generated content challenges.

Outcome:

The social media posts have significantly increased Carlton Factory’s online presence, driving higher engagement rates and fostering a strong community of classic game enthusiasts. The visually appealing content has also contributed to increased website traffic and sales.
First Social Media post when website got new look
First Social Media post when website got new look

Conclusion

Through the comprehensive branding and digital strategy I developed for Carlton Factory, I successfully elevated their brand presence both online and offline. The website, window cling, business cards, and social media posts all work together to create a cohesive and engaging brand experience that resonates with their target audience. Carlton Factory is now better positioned to fulfill its mission of keeping classic gaming alive and thriving in today’s market.
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